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Could someone advise me on whether I can use this "honing machine" as a lap grinder. I purchased it CHEAP $150.00, but I don't want to invest in 3-4 magnetic discs if it won't preform for me. Here are the specs:
DAYTON Split phase motor
HP 1/3 RPM 172S 115Volts FLA 6.0 FRS6Z HZ 60 PH1 INS,CR A, Max 40deg. C Duty cont. DP BRG Sleeve. 16 in magnetic disc.

Is there a way I can put a variable speed switch on it? Please advise whether any investment should be made in this. I should say --It does run...seems balanced...Who would you have make necessary updates or alterations?
All comments welcome...Thanks in advance. Kelly Makuch

Does it have a water feed and a way to recycle or drain the water off?

Tony

Thanks for asking Tony. Yes it does have a drain and a drip container for medium/water. If you've been to the Corning Studio cold shop --it would be a cousin to the mill grinding system, but lower tech.&smaller.

A lap wheel is a pretty simple device... a motor, a platen, some bearings and a water feed. The 1/3 HP motor sounds a little small since the larger lap wheels that I've seen are 3/4 HP or larger, but a motor is easy to change. A variable speed motor is a different story and will cost you some $$$. Maybe $300 to $500 by the time you're done with the motor and controller, and I'm not sure of the value. You'd be better off installing a 3/4 HP motor with a reversing switch and run the unit at a constant speed. If the platen is heavy enough to support the weight of a 15" diameter bowl, I'd say you're in good shape to start.

Tony

Tony, thank you for your advice. I appreciate it. Kelly