Thread: Variable speed control.

I won't say how much I spent on my vfd and leeson combo for my belt sander, but those prices are about right.
Used 90 vdc motors in the 1750 RPM range can go for under a couple hun and usually just need replacement carbon brushes.
That being said, a premade, bundled solution might be best for your application and electrical experience. An old wood lathe with belt drive speed control could be converted to your drive side. Were you in Ontario I would give you some older swag.
Good luck with your project.
I added a pic of my set up below to maybe help with ideas. I have a pair of dc motors powered off a common leeson drive running a buffing wheel and sanding belt set up. I added a couple of switches so I can run either unit in Frwd or reverse.