Hey Steve,
I figured that this question would come up. Unfortunately I didn't think about it until much later please remember that I've been working on this since April 6th on and off as time funds and PWH's help would allow so I didn't keep 'accurate records' (Glen Please Forgive Me) hehehe
Here's the best I can figure:
Cost of building the Variable Speed Buffer/Approximately
Cast Iron Base N/C
3/4hp 1725 rpm 110v motor N/C
Cleaning up the base $10
Pillow Block Bearings 4 @ $6.90 each plus shipping-$27.60
Precision Shaft $35/free delivery-$35
Machine Shop fee for cutting keyways $40 ***
Precision Ground Clamps 4 @$3.75 each plus freight -$15
Step Pulleys 2 @ $25 each-$50
3" driver pulley on motor N/C
5" driven pulley on speed reducer $12
Belts $10
2X6 for Speed Reducer N/C-courtesy of a local contractor
2 layers of 3/4" plywood N/C- courtesy of Ski
Laminate $40
Various glues, screw and other items needed to assemble the base N/C- Ski
Electrical Cord all N/C- some I had some from Ski
Nuts Bolts Washers Lock Washers to assemble no idea as I exchanged so many trying to get the ones that would not only 'work' but not extend excessively as I wanted the build to not only function but look nice.
Now to the *** I had taken the precision shaft to a machine shop that I've used many times in the past and with great satisfaction. I had the area to cut the keyways clearly marked. The Owner Operator looked at the shaft and wrote out the work order while telling me that it wouldn't be ready until Friday as they were very busy (I was there on a Monday) and that was fine as I wasn't in any hurry.
An hour later he called said the shaft was ready so I went up, paid $68 and took the pieces home.
The next day when I went to trial fit ---I found that he had hurried the job and cut the key ways in the wrong place! I contacted another machine shop and they cut the one shaft for the speed reducer in the proper place for less than $20. I'd managed to use the miss cut final drive but the length of the key way was the same on both shafts. That is why I said that the shaft machine work was $40 as that is what it would of been if I hadn't been ripped off.
Before you ask/I'm one of those who doesn't go back and Bitch, I just don't go Back!
So ignoring the rip off and not counting my time or fuel to go to Ski's place which is 20 miles away from me here's the Approximate Total:
Total: $239.60
Yes I could have purchased a buffer for a hell of a lot less, but it wouldn't be Mine! And to be truthful my buffer will more than likely out live me as the vital parts can be easily replaced at a minimum fee:tu
I hope this helps :shrug: