4" spool adaptor to big welder's

[aametalmaster]

Hi Guy's, I have a pile of 4" spool's of .023 for thin sheetmetal. I want to use them on my MM185 but can't because of the 5/8" spindle hole. I was going to rewind them on an empty big spool but don't have the time. So i thought of an adaptor, i don't have time to make one for a few days but i will throw out the idea. Use a piece of 2" black pipe the width of the big spool. Bring 2 arm's straight out with a 5/8" hole to hole the 4" spool, you can tighten the 5/8" nut for some tension on the little spool. Then you will need an arm downward like a kickstand to keep everything level for the wire to go into the drive. I have some 1/4" bolts with rubber feet i plan to use. Hey give it a shot. Sure beats buying a giant spool of .023 if you only need a little. Will post some pics in a few days...Bob
One other thing it would be good for those small rolls of flux core if you want to try flux core welding without buying a $50 roll.

[MMW]

I can picture it & sounds like a good idea. Let us know if it works. Many times you can pick up these little spools for next to nothing but unless you have a little machine you can't use them.---MMW---

[brianw]

Sounds like you are looking for a Universal Spool Adapter. You can goole it (put it in quotes) and get all kinds of results. Here is one from BR Welder
Universal Spool Adapter

[aametalmaster]

Wow, Always a day late. I didn't know about them. Thanks for the update. But for 29 bucks i will make one ...Bob

[Slash]

Sounds like you are looking for a Universal Spool Adapter. You can google it (put it in quotes) and get all kinds of results. Here is one from BR Welder
Universal Spool Adapter

HTP America also has one that sells for ~$20. I bought mine at the local Miller dealer a few years ago.

HTP: 1-800-USA-Weld

[aametalmaster]

WOW, 2 of them. I need to come out of the shop more...Bob

[aametalmaster]

Went thru my junk box and found all the parts. Only had to buy a 5/8" ID x 4" spring for a buck. Works great...Bob

[Paul Seaman]

Bob:
Very nice, looks like it might just need to be copied here in my garage. Thanks.
Paul

[Fishy Jim]

I also copied Bob, but I don't care for the time needed to prevent unwinding of the loaded spool via tensioning with the double nuts (my design change).

I'm curious what was used (almost looks like a spring?) on the one you made, and how you would do it differently if you were to make another?

Anyone else can feel free to chime in with suggestions. I hate to think of my 309 springing on me when using this thing.

[Danny]

I also copied Bob, but I don't care for the time needed to prevent unwinding of the loaded spool via tensioning with the double nuts (my design change).

I'm curious what was used (almost looks like a spring?) on the one you made, and how you would do it differently if you were to make another?

Anyone else can feel free to chime in with suggestions. I hate to think of my 309 springing on me when using this thing.

Jim,

For spool tensioning try using a flat washer, compression spring, and a nylock nut.

I'd more than likely also add a spacer between the spool of wire, and the flat bar piece