spindle sander drum length

[Bill Dufour]

I bought a central machinery oscillating drum sander for cheap. problem is it has no spindle. any thoughts on best length and diameters? It does not seem to have a taper at the bottom just a cylindrical end with threads so it should be easy enough to make one.
Bill

[Davis Young]

1/2" x 4-1/2" or 1/2" x 9" will take care of most of the common sizes of drums and sanding sleeves out there. The end of the spindle should be drilled and tapped to accept a bolt and washer or flanged bolt to keep the drums in place and to expand the drum slightly so the sleeves don't slip.

[Bill Dufour]

Bolt or is a nut okay for the top end?
Bill

[glenn bradley]

Nut us fine. Probably obvious but, threads run the direction that tightens with use.