How is it that these contact wheels are priced like they are made out of gold or something. A 10 inch contact wheel for $250?? Can they be home made for less? Much Less??

You might look at the 10" wheel for the Grizzly grinder. I have not used it, but it's worth a look:

http://www.grizzly.com/products/G1015/accessories

(Is last line in the list)

I vaguely remember that MSC carries the tired outer wheel for cheaper as well. You'd have to make the center yourself. Not a problem if you have a big lathe.

Contact wheels are the most expensive part of a grinder save a variable speed DC motor and its control.

My wheel can from Dunn and company. I walked in looked at there available wheels. Told them what i wanted dimension wise, and shaft diameter and they made me one for $80.00. I didn't tell them its now a contact wheel but i've used it for a long time and will get another one that way if i have to.

Nate

Does this Dunn and company have a web site?

google came up with dunncasters.com and that looks like the place i got mine from.