Abstract: An electrically driven motor operated belt sander is provided having a low profile and a center of gravity close to the sanding plane by passing the belt about three generally triangularly located belt drums with the motor disposed within the belt path and the motor and support mechanism being mounted to a one-piece frame or bracket which hangs the entire drive and support mechanism from the tool housing, the one-piece frame or bracket including a wear plate or strip which provides positive protection for the wiring between the operating trigger switch and the motor.