Does size matter? An angle grinder question...

[MJ_]

Good morning all,

Yesterday there was a DeWalt tool rep at my local independent retailer and I ended up with a couple 4.5 inch chorded angle grinders. (DWE402)

The tool only came with the standard guard and I wanted to purchase one of the optional guards intended for cutoff wheels. While looking over DeWalt's "serviceNet" parts website, I noticed that there are also 5 inch guards available for this model.

If we assume that the discs/wheels I choose to run on this grinder, do not have RPM ratings which are less than the tool, am I breaking any safety rules?

Can I put larger discs/wheels on this grinder as long as I have the proper guard installed and observe the RPM relationship between the tool and the disc?

Thanks.
MJ

 

[MJ_]

I should add that I DID attempt to contact DeWalt and found that using their live chat feature was like speaking into an empty shoe box. Their site provides no phone number that I can find.

 

[anndel]

I have a 4-1/2 in Metabo and it's great for my needs - grinding welds, rust of metals, removing paint and/or burrs. It depends what you're going to use it for.

 

[zak77]

Yes that is fine. I accidentally bought a 5" grinding wheel instead of a 4.5" and i was able to use it in a pinch if i removed the guard. So if you have the proper guard, no issues.

 

[sberry]

The 402 is comfy, one of my favorite "feel", like the switch. If you run them hard keep an eye on the brushes and don't overheat them.

 

[tarbellb]

Yes.

But watch out for large wire wheels and any job w/ long run times.