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I need some help from the collective brains trust, I'm trying to think of some 'clutch' system so that you can operate say a lever and disengage a baker fan (or any accessory for that matter) from being run off an engine and then to also be able to re-engage.
It would be terrific for seeing the load that a baker fan applies to an engine.

I have thought of making the clutch out of two round metal discs with large grit wet & dry sandpaper on them that engages and disengages, but don't think that would work.

Has anyone got any clever ideas for a simple clutch arrangement?



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I need some help from the collective brains trust, I'm trying to think of some 'clutch' system so that you can operate say a lever and disengage a baker fan (or any accessory for that matter) from being run off an engine and then to also be able to re-engage.
It would be terrific for seeing the load that a baker fan applies to an engine.

I have thought of making the clutch out of two round metal discs with large grit wet & dry sandpaper on them that engages and disengages, but don't think that would work.

Has anyone got any clever ideas for a simple clutch arrangement?



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Jim, I have pondered this very question on & off for the last few years. There are several methods to choose from. I've always wanted to produce a miniature version of the clutch system that Wheel Horse used for decades ( couldn't find a appropriate video),similar to what you described above. If you look at the clutch system on your D32 you'll find something very similar.I always wanted to find something that was extremely efficient with as little drag as possible (these are after all...toys) you could always go with the idler pulley that has a lever to tighten the slack from the drive belt. maybe we should offer the idea out as a machinist competition and see what everyone comes up with after a month or two, just a thought 😊
Still thinking here , I would check all the RC transmission/gearbox assemblies you can research, I've had good luck in this area. I remember Scott Rouse had an old German overhead line shaft with a lever that would engage/disengage the lineshaft.
I'm on it from this side of the world 😀
Erector set motor gearbox ?

I've long had an idea that might serve along these lines, but I'm not finding the right words to try and describe it. It could serve as a multi-functional clutch / infinitely variable gearing transmission unit. If I find the right words I'll get back to you, meanwhile I'll think hard on it and see if it still seems a feasible idea!?!?

could certainly be miniaturized, groves with orings could be used in place of the leather "wear face" and with some careful planning could be made quite compact as well. I think the hardest part of the design is how to keep the input and output pullies from shifting with the engagement of the clutch.

I found this...

Bruce...are you going to have a go at making something like that?

Looking forward to seeing what you come up with mate.