JET Performax 22-44 Pro Feed Belt Replacement Guide

Quick answer

To replace the feed belt on a JET Performax 22-44 Pro, remove the old belt, install a new 23 x 62 inch conveyor sanding feed belt with the correct tension, and re-track it before use.

Steps to replace the conveyor feed belt

1. 1. Disconnect power and remove the platen: Unplug the sander. Remove the sanding drum and the platen assembly to access the conveyor belt. Common mistake: Forgetting to release belt tension before removal can damage the tracking mechanism. Always power down completely before touching the feed belt.
2. 2. Remove the old belt: Loosen the tension roller at the tail of the sander. Slide the old belt off the rollers. Check the rollers for debris or wear. Common mistake: Leaving old adhesive residue on the rollers can cause the new belt to slip. Clean the rollers with a dry cloth before installing the new belt.
3. 3. Install the new 23 x 62 inch belt: Place the new belt over the drive roller and the tail roller, ensuring the directional arrows (if present) point in the correct rotation. Center the belt on the rollers. Common mistake: Mounting the belt backward can cause tracking issues or feed direction problems. Check the belt's rotation direction before tightening.
4. 4. Tension the belt: Tighten the tension roller until the belt is snug but not stretched. The belt should not sag, but you should still be able to twist it slightly with your fingers. Common mistake: Over-tightening can strain the motor and bearings, while under-tightening causes slipping. A good rule: the belt should lift about 1/4 inch when you press it firmly at the center.
5. 5. Re-track the belt: Plug in the sander and run it at a low speed. Use the tracking knob to adjust the belt so it runs centered on the rollers. Common mistake: Adjusting too quickly can make the belt wander; make small, slow turns. Run the belt for 30 seconds at low speed to confirm it stays centered before using full speed.
6. 6. Reassemble and test: Reinstall the platen and sanding drum. Run a test piece of scrap wood through the sander to verify even feed and no belt drift. Common mistake: Skipping the test run can lead to a ruined workpiece if the belt is still off-track. Keep the tracking knob accessible for minor adjustments during the first few uses.

Product facts

• 23 X 62 Inch Replacement Conveyor Sanding Feed Belt (JET Performax 22-44 PRO, ShopPro 25, Supermax 25): These belts are manufactured with premium aluminum oxide abrasive grain and a cloth backing, with an ultra-strong bi-directional no-bump tape joint. The no-bump joint prevents thumping as the belt rotates, giving you a smoother feed and more consistent sanding finish.