How to Change an Angle Grinder Blade Without a Tool (Four Ways)

Have you ever misplaced your angle grinder key and struggled to replace its blade? It’s quite frustrating because a simple nut without its key feels like a secret safe, which requires a complex combination of passwords. In this article, we will discuss how to change an angle grinder blade without a tool in four different ways. You might be surprised that unlocking a spindle nut is easy once you know the process. So, let’s do this!

How to Change an Angle Grinder’s Blade Without a Tool?

Before discussing the methods, it would be best to understand the mechanism of an angle grinder.

Blade and Spindle Mechanics

The part on which you insert a blade on the angle grinder is called the spindle; it’s a rotating shaft that drives the blades. When you try to tighten/loosen the blade, the spindle also rotates. That’s why most angle grinders come with a spindle locking mechanism, which makes blade installation/removal easier.

The spindle lock button can usually be found on the back side of the angle grinder. When changing the blade, you need to press and hold it.

Types of Blade Locks

Different angle grinders may use various types of spindle locking mechanisms. You may find the standard lock button in some grinders, while others might have a complex system. Always read the manufacturer’s user manual.

The main issue is that we don’t have a tool provided by the manufacturer to change the blade. So, here are some methods for easily changing your angle grinder’s blade.

1. Using a Monkey Grip Plier to Change a Grinder Blade

It’s a very basic method; if you have a monkey grip plier, you can use it to unlock the blade’s nut. The steps are followed.

First, lock the spindle with the button provided on the angle grinder.

Now, use the monkey plier to loosen the blade’s nut.

Change the blade and tighten it while pressing the spindle lock button, and you’re done.

2. Using a Nose Plier to Replace an Angle Grinder’s Blade

A nose plier is another effective method to change the grinder’s blade. The steps are following:

First, insert the nose plier into the hole in the disk’s nut.

Push the spindle lock and use a rod between the arm of the plier to rotate it easily.

Now replace the blade and reverse the process, and you’re done.

3. Using Two Bolts and a Rod to Change a Grinder Blade

If you don’t have a monkey grip or a nose plier, this method comes in handy. You need two bolts thin enough to fit into the grinder’s nut. Here is how to do it:

First, insert the two bolts into the grinder’s disk nut.

Now, use a rod or similar object to rotate and unlock the nut while pressing the spindle lock button.

Swap the new blade and lock in the nut in the reverse direction by inserting the bolts again.

Also read: How to control the speed of an angle grinder

4. Using a Hammer and a Punch Tool To Replace a Blade

It’s the most classic method many people use to unlock a stubborn and rusty nut. You can also try this method on an angle grinder’s nut. You need to follow these steps; it’s tricky, though!

First, place the grinder on a stable surface.

Insert a punch/chisel into a nut’s hole in the direction of unlocking.

Now, use the hammer while pressing the spindle lock button. Tap it multiple times if needed.

Put the new blade and reverse the process to lock the nut.

FAQs

Conclusion

There might be several other methods that can help to replace a blade in an angle grinder without requiring any tool. If you find my methods useful or have any new suggestions to share, write your comments. Thanks for reading; until next time, keep crafting!