The large "O" ring on my lathe is breaking in only a few days. I used one for well over a year. Last year I order a spare, just in case, and when I put in on recently it only lasted 3 days. I then ordered two more and the first lasted maybe a week. I don't want to replace them weekly so is one source better than another. I use both the lathe part and the dryer part and I have been switching them ever since I got the lathe. Where to order a better "O" ring.

You may have gotten some old or bad stock. You can also search for nitrile or silicone O-rings which have a much longer shelf and service life than the common poly type rings.

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On my home built Lathe I used a O-Ring from a Hayward pool filter

I have a question ...

When you received the lathe did you knock down the little bolts that extended through the lathe motor bracket? They stick out on the backside (top and bottom) toward the belt itself. IF you didn't, that is quite possibly your issue - the bolt ends are jagged and will nick the belt causing it to break prematurely.

Jim -

Thanks Tom I just ordered some silicone rings. Will see how they do.

I agree with Jim also look at your pulley wheels for burs.. I have a old Rod Smith, PacBay lath. I have had it for over 20 years. I am still using the same O rig belt. I am not gentle on my lath. My issue with O rings, is the O rings on the rod carriage. It seams like I leave finish on them and the next time I use the lath the wheels are frozen

Good Wraps Bob

Do you know what size the large O ring is? I would love to pick up a more durable replacement than the standard ones, which seem to crack and break pretty quickly for me as well. The silicone or nitrile ring sounds like a viable option, but knowing which size to look for would be great. Thanks!

Mitchell, perhaps this can be useful.

[www.oringswest.com]

Hi Royce,

That will definitely help. Time to break out the calipers and measure up. Thanks!