I decided to add a 6” belt sander to my collection of tools. I already had a ¾ hp. motor just waiting to be used. First, I picked up a sanding belt to see just how big to make everything and the rest is history.
The pulleys are MDF and the rest is made of some scrap plywood lying around the shop. I did have to purchase the bearings and shafts. The build only took 2-days--------with another 4-days to disassemble, finish and reassemble.
I hope this might give you an idea for something you can’t live without.