4-1/2 Grinders

[JK2]

Has anyone had a brand or specific model 4-1/2" grinder that lasted very long (more than a year)?
I've used several different brands & the cheapies seem to last almost as long as the expensive ones before they start throwing sparks and/or smoke. Thanks, John
 

[Randysouthmississippi]

I have a craftsman 4-1/2 grinder that i bought new in the mid 80's its been used just for farm use and not on a daily basis but has seen some hard times,and is still going strong, actually with the original cord on it.
 

[NCWayne]

I've got two older Dewalts that I've worked the crap out of. One I've had for nearly 10 years (and it was well used when I got it), the other for a year or two (and it was used relatively hard too as I knew it's history before it was given to me). That said all grinders aren't created equal. You can have two of them that are the same brand, and both look identical, but they have different amp ratings on the tag. Typically I've seen them with the smaller ones running 7 amps and the heavier built ones running 10 or 12 amps. If you go for the higher amp models they will usually last alot longer than the low amp models.
 

[huntingreen2day]

I have a Black and Decker I have been using about 18 years.
 

[Ted in NE-OH]

I use a Harbor Freight one with a wire brush to restore tractors use and abuse. Still going, not as quiet as others tho. It's a throwaway and it keeps going.
 

[Pops1532]

I got a Skil around 1987. A bearing burned up not long after. Had the bearing replaced at a local shop. The grinder is still going strong.
 

[bison]

I got a cheapy $40 strongarm(china) since 94. I musta wore out a zillion discs with it,.still going strong.
 

[John A.]

JK2, Makita !!! have worked well for me, Just not a B&D fan.
Later,
John A.
 

[Stick welding]

The biggest reason most 4 1/2" grinders burn up is because people try to do the work of a bigger grinder with them.
 

[MarkB_MI]

I have a Dewalt that's over fifteen years old. Admittedly, it doesn't get used every day. Others have said that Metabo makes the best small grinder.
 

[DJM75]

I have had my porter cable for years no problems.
 

[Chris(WA)]

I just bought a Milwaukee 11 amp grinder off Craigslist for $25. What a STRONG little grinder!I also have a DeWalt that I have had and loved for years.
Additionally I have thrown away several HF grinders that I was given as bonuses, new from HF. Tried using them as I would the DeWalt. Not abusing, just regular use. None have lasted more than a day. I sure as h3ll would never pay money for one!
 

[jon f mn]

I have 2 3 1/2" dewalts and 2 7" dewalts and a 7" makita, all 20+ years old and still going strong.
 

[George Marsh]

JK2,
I have a Black & Decker made when B&D meant something, old enough to vote. I have 2 dewalt grinders. There are different models of dewalts, get the 10 amp one. Also have an 18 v dewalt. Some may figure out I'm a dewalt fan, must like the color.
George
 

[Stephen Newell]

I have had three HF angle grinders. After using one for about 5 years it wore out. The other two I bought two or three years ago are still going.