"Wayne Cook" wrote in message
...
On 6 Jan 2006 18:54:10 -0800, wrote:
Ok. Finally got the patent images to come up. Adjustment is pretty
simple and explained in the text if you can wade through it. Turning
ring #26 in the patent the direction of the dotted arrow on page two
tightens the clutch. Going the other way loosens the clutch. It's
being held by spring wires #40 on the grooves on the outside of ring
#26.
Further, I see nothing in this that gives an over-center motion,
so I propose you look at the linkage that slides the collar for
this. Maybe the clutch has been overtightened so that the
handle does not reach the over-center part of its action? Does
it feel like the handle is hitting a hard stop or does it just keep
engaging the clutch harder? Since the adjustment is different
for both directions, see if one direction will engage and the
other not, this might tell you more on where to look.
Based on what I can tell from the patent there's not really a over
center motion. I think it's based more on the fact that if you get up
over the first curve of the actuating arm there's a straight section
and in that position friction would hold it. I must say that this is
one of the more unusual clutches I've ever seen.
Hmm, I wondered if that might be the case. I didn't get a chance to try
adjusting the clutch today. Hopefully if I adjust it out a bit there will be
some sort of locking mechanism.
Also, it's possible that as the mechanism wears in a little from
being unused that the disk packs will free up/deglaze/whatever
and the clutch will work a little more correctly. All conjecture
of course, and not worth anything more than what you paid for
it...
That's my personal opinion on the real problem.
Understood -- but I do appreciate the advice and conjecture you all are
sharing!
Incidentally, I did make new sight glasses today -- I mounted some 1/4"
plexiglass on my wood lathe and turned out some stepped disks. I made one
part just a snap fit into the holes, and then left a lip so it wouldn't go
too far in. I put them in using RTV. Once I finish cleaning things out,
we'll see how they hold ...
Andy