Wen BG4260 - User Manual

Questions and Answers

M
Michael ThompsonJul 30, 2025
What to do if my Wen BG4260 motor does not start?
- C
  Christy ReynoldsJul 30, 2025
  If your Wen Grinder's motor isn't starting, check the power cord, extension cord, power plug, and outlet to ensure everything is properly plugged in and undamaged. Also, verify that the circuit is providing 120V power. If the problem persists, stop using the tool and call 1-800-232-1195 for customer service, as there may be a defective power switch, motor, wiring, capacitor, short circuit, or loose connections.
J
Jesus TravisAug 5, 2025
Why does my Wen BG4260 motor overheat?
- R
  Ryan ScottAug 5, 2025
  Your Wen Grinder motor may be overheating because it is overloaded. Try reducing the load on the motor by applying less pressure to the workpiece. Another possible cause is using an extension cord that is too long or of insufficient gauge. Use an appropriate extension cord or plug the tool directly into the outlet.
J
jamesreyesAug 13, 2025
How to fix a Wen Grinder wheel that's not rotating smoothly?
- D
  daniel31Aug 13, 2025
  If the grinding wheel on your Wen Grinder isn't rotating smoothly or evenly, it might be improperly installed. Re-install the wheel according to the instructions. The wheel may also be worn out or imbalanced, in which case you should replace it. If the spindle is not straight, stop using the tool and call 1-800-232-1195 for customer service.
B
Brittany MorganAug 21, 2025
What to do if my Wen BG4260 Grinder leaves a wavy finish?
- M
  Michael SandersAug 21, 2025
  A wavy finish on your workpiece from the Wen Grinder can occur if the machine is vibrating. Ensure it's securely positioned on a level surface. Also, check that the workpiece is held firmly in place. If the wheel face is uneven, dress the grinding wheel according to the instructions.

Summary

General Safety Rules for Bench Grinder Operation

Work Area Safety Precautions

Guidelines for maintaining a clean, well-lit, and safe work environment.

Electrical Safety Guidelines

Rules for safe electrical connections, cords, and grounding to prevent shock.

Personal Safety Measures

Recommendations for operator alertness, protective equipment, and attire.

Power Tool Use and Care Instructions

Specific Rules for Bench Grinder Operation

Bench Grinder Safety Precautions

Specific safety guidelines for bench grinder use, including wheel safety and hazard warnings.

Personal Safety for Bench Grinder Users

Personal safety measures specific to bench grinder operation, e.g., ventilation, hearing protection.

During Operation

Guidelines for operating the bench grinder, including starting procedures and wheel warm-up.

Electrical Information and Grounding

Unpacking and Transportation Guide

Assembly and Adjustments Guide

Mounting and Operation Setup

Pre-Operation Checklist

Checklist of essential checks before operating the bench grinder for safety.

Bench Grinder Operation Procedures

Wheel Maintenance and Product Disposal

The WEN Bench Grinder (Models BG4266, BG4260) is a versatile power tool designed primarily for sharpening and honing cutting tools. It features two 6-inch grinding wheels, one coarse (36-grit) for fast material removal and one medium (60-grit) for general purpose grinding and medium material removal. This tool is suitable for sharpening dull blades, wood chisels, knives, scissors, carving tools, axes, and more.

Important Technical Specifications:

Model Numbers: BG4266, BG4260
Motor: 120V, 60 Hz, 2.1A
Wheel Speed: 3450 RPM
Wheel Size: 6 inches x 3/4 inch
Arbor Size: 1/2 inch
Wheel Grit: 36 Grit (coarse), 60 Grit (medium)
Weight: 14 pounds
Product Dimensions: 12 x 7-1/2 x 8 inches

Usage Features:

The bench grinder is equipped with several components to ensure safe and effective operation:

Locking Knob (A): Used to adjust the position of the eye shield.
Eye Shield (B): Transparent shields that protect the user from debris during operation.
Spark Deflector (C): Protects the user from sparks during operation.
36-Grit Coarse Grinding Wheel (D): For quick material removal.
Tool Rest (E): Supports the workpiece during grinding.
Wheel Cover (F): Covers the grinding wheel to protect against accidental contact and provides quick access for maintenance.
Power Switch (G): Turns the bench grinder ON and OFF.
Inner Wheel Cover (H): Covers the grinding wheel to protect against accidental contact.
60-Grit Grinding Wheel (I): For medium material removal and general purpose grinding.

Before Operation:

Unpacking & Transportation: Carefully remove the bench grinder from its packaging. Do not discard packaging until all contents are removed. Carry the bench grinder by its base, never by its guards or accessories.
Assembly:
- Positioning: Place the machine on a stable, flat work surface. Ensure sufficient open space and route the power cord away from moving parts. The grinder has four pre-installed rubber feet for stability.
- Tool Rests (Fig. 2): Place the tool rest over its bracket, align slots, and secure with the carriage head tool rest screw and knob. Adjust the tool rest to within 1/16 inch of the grinding wheel. Repeat for both sides.
- Spark Deflector (Fig. 3): Place the spark deflector against the wheel guard (thick portion on bottom), align the slot with the hole, and secure with the spark deflector screw assembly. Adjust to within 1/16 inch of the grinding wheel.
- Eye Shield Arm (Fig. 3): Attach the shield arm to the inner wheel guard using a bolt, lock washer, and flat washer. Repeat for both sides.
- Eye Shield (Fig. 4): Attach the eye shield to the shield arm and tighten the locking knob. Repeat for both sides.
Mounting: The bench grinder must be securely mounted to a workbench or stand using 1/4 inch bolts, flat washers, lock washers, and hex nuts (not included). The bolt length should be 1-1/2 inches longer than the workbench thickness. Drill four 3/8 inch diameter holes through the workbench if mounting to a workbench. This bench grinder is compatible with the WEN Cast Iron Bench Grinder Pedestal Stand (Model No. 4288).
Pre-Operation Checklist:
- Ensure personal protective equipment is worn (ANSI Z87.1-approved safety glasses, work-appropriate clothing, dust mask).
- Verify the grinding wheel is properly installed, rotates smoothly by hand, and has an even surface.
- Confirm the tool rest and eye shield/spark deflector are properly installed.

Basic Operation Notes:

Always turn ON the grinder while standing to the side, not in front. Allow it to reach full speed (roughly one minute) before grinding to warm up the wheel and ensure proper operation. Never grind on a cold wheel, as it increases the likelihood of chipping.
Hold the workpiece firmly against the tool rest. For very small pieces, use pliers or clamps.
Feed the workpiece smoothly and evenly into the grinding wheel.
Move the workpiece slowly and avoid jamming it against the wheel. If the wheel slows down from excessive force, release pressure to allow it to return to full speed.
Grind only on the face of the grinding wheel, never the side.
Metal pieces heat quickly during grinding; move the workpiece back and forth to prevent overheating.
Do not apply excessive pressure; guide the blade with light pressure.
Sharpening Scissors: If possible, disassemble scissors. Remove material only from the outside surface, working from the heavy end of the blade toward the tip.
Sharpening Screwdrivers: The end should be a perfect rectangle, flat, and perpendicular to the shank's centerline. Taper the two sides and faces outward from the shoulder/shank. Hold each face against the wheel to true it up, then ease the end straight into the stone.
Sharpening Knives: Remove metal from both faces, working from the heavy end of the blade toward the tip.
Lawn Mower Blades: Usually sharpened on one side with slight dressing on the other. Balance the blade after sharpening by removing additional material from the heavy end. Always remove spark plug wires from the mower before servicing blades.

Maintenance Features:

Routine Inspection (Before Each Use): Check for loose hardware, misalignment or binding of moving parts, damaged cord/electrical wiring, cracked or broken parts, and any other condition affecting safe operation. Do not use the tool if any of these conditions exist until parts are replaced and the tool is properly repaired.
Cleaning & Storage:
- Turn OFF and unplug the tool before cleaning or maintenance.
- Use a vacuum or low-pressure compressed air to remove dust and debris from tool surfaces, motor housing, and work area.
- Wipe tool surfaces clean with a soft cloth or brush; ensure no water enters the tool.
- Store the tool in a clean, dry place, away from children, at temperatures between 41° to 86°F.
- Cover the tool to protect it from dust and moisture.
- Keep ventilation openings free from dust and debris to prevent motor overheating.
- CAUTION: Do not use commercial solvents (gasoline, carbon tetrachloride, chlorinated cleaning solvents, household detergents with ammonia) as most plastics are susceptible to damage.
Lubrication: All bearings are permanently lubricated and require no additional lubrication.
Dressing the Grinding Wheel: Periodically dress the grinding wheel using dressing tools (sold separately) to restore or adjust abrasiveness.
- Coarse Grinding: Apply the coarse face of the dressing stone to roughen the wheel's surface for faster material removal.
- Fine Grinding: Apply the smooth face of the dressing stone to create a finer surface.
Replacing the Grinding Wheel: Inspect grinding wheels for damage or cracking before each use. Store them to prevent moisture and contamination. Replacement 6-inch grinding wheels (Part No's 4276-015 and 4276-036) can be purchased from wenproducts.com.
1. Turn OFF and disconnect the bench grinder from the power supply.
2. Loosen the three screws on the grinding wheel cover with a Phillips-head screwdriver and remove it.
3. Hold the grinding wheel to prevent rotation. Remove the lock nut with a 19mm wrench.
  - NOTE: Lock nuts are self-tightening. The left wheel has a left-hand thread (turn right to loosen), and the right wheel has a right-hand thread (turn left to loosen).
4. Remove the outer flange and the wheel. Place the new wheel onto the spindle.
5. Replace the outer flange (large ring surface touching the wheel) and the lock nut. Tighten the lock nut by hand, then snug it up with a wrench.
  - WARNING: NEVER use an impact driver or impact wrench to tighten the nuts, as overtightening can crack the grinding wheel and cause a hazard.
6. Replace the wheel cover and secure with screws.
Product Disposal: Used power tools should not be disposed of with household waste. This product contains electronic components that should be recycled. Take it to a local recycling facility for responsible disposal and to minimize environmental impact.