So you’re attempting to put the blade on your angle grinder. And the stubborn disc keeps spinning freely between holders and won’t tighten down.
Now you’re wondering what to do now that your angle grinder disc not tightening?
Firstly, you can take off the previous nut and replace it with a new one to fix the angle grinder disc not tightening issue. Or you can simply try shifting the altitude of the inner flange’s shoulder and the counterbore depth of the outer flange. Also, you can turn the nut backwards and tighten the grinder down.
Still confused? Well, don’t worry. Because in this article, we’ve not only provided the reasons as to what why it’s happening
Keep reading to find out!
Reasons Why Angle Grinder Disc Not Tightening?
You can perform various chores using angle grinder discs. For instance, you can cut and polish. Also, solve different problems like carve issues or rivets that are not breaking off and more.
However, to do all that, the grinder needs to be tightened properly.
There may be various reasons working behind why angle grinder disc is not tightening. Here we are including some of those:
- The disc flange may not be seated properly.
- Or perhaps the nut in the grinder disc may be worn in an abnormal way.
- Or the blade might be broken.
- That flange in the bottom arbor washer might be a bit thicker than your cutting wheel.
- Maybe blade pieces are kept backwards. Thus deterring it from locking suitably onto the spindle.
Now that you know the reasons, let’s jump into the solutions!
5 Easy Solutions to Tighten Angle Grind Disc
So you are trying different ways to tighten your grinder blades in the disc. But it still won’t tighten properly. Keeps veering away from the place or maybe starts spinning freely.
If you have your angle grinder disc loose or a loose cutting wheel on angle grinder. worry no more.
Here’s one detailed snapshot of all the possible solutions that you can try. And resolve the problem. Here you go!
Solution 1: Use a Different Nut
Using a different nut can resolve this problem. In fact, in some cases, it’s been proven as the most effective fix for this issue!
You will find a section raised in the arbor. So you can try setting a washer under that disc. This way it can be raised up above the section. After that, tighten down the nut as much as possible.
You can also use the threaded hub cut off wheels. Or maybe use a disc that has a tinier bore in it. It should fit over those threads. However, it is not supposed to fit over the metal section.
Another thing is always be certain of the ideal measurement. For instance, if the size of the threaded arbor is 5/8-11. Then you need to buy a bore cut-off wheel that is 5/8 inches.
Solution 2: Alter the Altitude Or Counterbore Depth
This solution is for the angle grinders that are old. They normally don’t find one for the modern discs with 1mm slitting discs.
So what can you do in this case?
Simply decrease the altitude of the shoulder of the inner flange. Or you can try increasing the counterbore depth of the outer flange. Doing either of these would not take more than a minute or two.
But you have to have access to a metal lathe for that.
Make sure you have sharpened the metal lathe. Do not worry if you don’t. Because there’s another way of doing it.
For that, you need to take the flanges off. Then pile the 5/8 washers on that spindle. Do it until you are able to nestle the inner flange back on along with the shoulder. It should be just a bit higher than that thread.
After that switch the grinder on. Then lightly run a smooth file across the grinder’s shoulder. Continue doing it until you’ve reduced the shoulder height. And brought it to a point where you can easily clamp the disc. That too without any flanges touching the middle of the grinder.
It’s applicable for any type of angle grinder discs. Just remember to clamp the grinder in a vice and take proper care.
This video by Norton Abrasives EMEA is quite helpful in teaching how to mount a cutting disc the right way-
Watch this to mount your cutting disk on the angle grinder appropriately.
Solution 3: Turn the Nut Backwards
Yes, try turning the nut backwards. It’s the most effortless way you can solve this issue.
Keep the flat side towards the disk as well. Use a slim 3/64 inches by 4 inches cutting disc. It should be in a steadfast 5-inch cheapo rat-tailed grinder.
The grinder should have a back paddle switch as well as a side handle. This way you will be able to get a nice grip and command when cutting.
The thin discs especially work great for fast cutting. Plus it does not cause any big heat buildup. However, these thin discs tend to be relatively delicate.
So the trick is to apply proper operator positioning and have substantial stance control. As is somewhat similar to welding. Also, try to forage it smoothly.
Solution 4: Use a Rear Drive Nut Or Washer
Another great way to solve this problem can be using the rear-drive nut. Or maybe a washer. Make sure the thin discs are on the 4.5 inches grinder.
This way the parts will be convertible. All the 4.5 and 9 inches grinders have a standard M14 thread. However, the same cannot be said for the old ones.
So you just need to check the nook in the back of that drive nut. Make sure it conforms to the register that is on the grinder spindle.
Also, make sure that the flats accommodate each other neatly. It helps when the grinding disc keeps spinning off.
Solution 5: Align the Spindle Parallelly
Another reason why the problem may be happening is because the blade is put on backwards. And that’s what interrupts it from getting properly locked with the spindle.
So when you’re positioning it, ensure that you align the two flat sides of the spindle. Keep it parallel with the two lips that are raised and placed on the disc flange.
Notice whether the blade is seated yet wobbles. So, if your angle grinder blade wobbles, make sure to loosen the spindle lock button. Do it as you’re tightening the grinder.
With the lock loosened confirm that you place the clamp nut on. When doing it, you also have to ensure that the flanged edge is facing outwards. And it’s kept away from your grinder.
Always use a wrench to thoroughly tighten that clamp nut down.
FAQs
How to tighten angle grinders with a thin wheel?
To tighten angle grinders with thin wheels, restore the nut set. Replace it with something which is competent to use a thin wheel. Get a lower nut which is flat. Flip over the top nut. Exchange between the thin and thick wheels or even flap discs. They however function nicely with the .040 slim wheels.
How tight should a grinder wheel be?
You’re done installing the wheel and the second flange. Now see if the nut is snugged up. If not, snug it up using a wrench. Ensure there is enough traction between the wheel and the inner flange to make the friction possible. This is how much you should tighten the grinder wheel for it to work properly.
Can an angle grinder disc fly off if not tightened properly?
Yes, an angle grinder disc may fly off. Projectiles are flying components. It occurs if the wheel of the disc bursts. It can also happen when the material is being cut. It’s not often feasible to stave off projectiles, yet you can minimize the risk. So you’ve to use the right settings, wheels and tools.
Wrapping Up
Hope we have cleared your queries of angle grinder disc not tightening?
Pick and follow one of these solutions that work best for the problem at hand. Just one more word of caution before you go. Always wear safety glasses and hand gloves when working. Remain careful and ensure your own safety.
That’s all for now. Have a good day!
Robert S. Dehner is an experienced content writer at Power Tool Institute. He has a wealth of experience in the field and is committed to providing you with up-to-date information and advice on the effective and safe use of power tools.