Problems with Delta belt sander 31-280

[Donald Schneider]

I am seeking help in understanding how to adjust my Delta model 31-280 belt sander. I have installed a new belt which immediatly runs off to the side and self destructs. I can not find where there are adjustments to end this problem. I am new to this sander, so any help would be much appreciated. Thank you!

[UtahAV]

Hi Donald,

Take a look at the parts breakdown of the 31-280 sander. Item #27 on page A of the parts diagram is the tracking knob. By turning the knob one direction or the other you can track the belt side to side on the drums. When I install a new belt I will rotate the belt by hand while adjusting the tracking with the tracking knob. Once I feel that the tracking is correct I will turn the sander on and make any fine adjustments to the tracking that may be needed.

I hope this helps!

-UtahAV
-Mark