Edge sander--what happens when the belt breaks?

[Paul McCuish]

I've been given several edge sander belts that are too long for my machine. I'm planning to shorten the belts, following instructions that I've found on-line. However, I know this is asking for a failed joint. I'd like to know what could happen when a joint fails. Can the belt fly into my face? Is it worth it to shorten the belts?

[J.R. Rutter]

It is not very dramatic in my experience. More noisy than anything. It basically stops moving while the drive shaft keeps spinning.

[Martin Wasner]

It is not very dramatic in my experience. More noisy than anything. It basically stops moving while the drive shaft keeps spinning.

Yep, basically nothing happens.

As soon as it loses tension it loses drive. It doesn't weigh much, so there's no energy there to do anything.

[Bill Orbine]

I'm more concerned about a tear than a break. Make sure belt is in good condition.

[Chris Fournier]

Spring tension on the idler pulley. Usually a pretty loud bang as it releases tension to the stop. Belt can jam up somewhere or just go limp. Mostly just a noisy affair.

[johnny means]

You make sanding blocks.