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I am trying to get a 6X48 belt and 12'' disc sander build by my friend - with me helping of course
I have decided to do this because I cant really afford an good quality sander, and labor here is a LOT cheaper than in the USA.

My problem is that I cant find much info or pictures showing the quick release tension lever mechanism. I only found one to be exact. So, when you are changing your belts, if you remember could you please take a picture or the mechanism and post it here, or send it to me via pm... I will be forever grateful

For a quick change mechanism you could pattern it after a portable belt sander. A not so quick change mechanism could be made with all thread and nuts to tension the rollers. How often do you anticipate changing the belts?
The "tracking roller" mechanism might be the more interesting thing to design. Again, looking at a portable belt sander might help.

Hi I picked up a homemade belt sander at an estate sale , it is 2 large plywood drums abt 8 in or 32cm by 24in long or 96cm long that is vy simple construction using pillow bearings and a 1/3hp motor, similiar to a belt sander except the wooden release lever is in the center for removing the sanding belts.My wife just bought a smartphone, and when she figures out how to take a photo.I will have her post it , to give you some ideas for making one.It works vy well.

thanks a lot I will be waiting. can't wait to finish it. I am trying to make bone saddles and nuts.... very tough if you dont have a sander

Any cheap, chinese made combination sander will do saddles and nuts. I have a cheapie for just this purpose, should be able to find something locally, or from an EU supplier (shipping should not exceed 20-30 euros, so you should be able to get something new for under 150, shipped). I can think of plenty of thins a 6x48 and 12" disc sander would be 'nice to have' for, but it's low on my list of essential woodworking machinery....

Here are the photos of the home made sander.