Universal Joints (Question no longer valid)

[Steppenrig]

Hey guys

I'm having a few issues with my universal joints (Motor to Propshaft). I'm currently using some rubber tube wired to each shaft, but it's being problematic. It's direct drive at this stage.

Any alternative ideas? Also, just for extra challenge, the motor shaft and prop shaft are significantly dissimilarly sized.

Cheers

Dave

[bannon]

Depends on the distance between motor and shaft but you might like to try this.

Get two collets, one to fit your motor and one the shaft. Then some square section brass tube and cut off two lengths Square cut important) Square section should be size that gives a TIGHT fit for the rubber tube. Solder these tubes centrally to the collets. Length of the square tube should be such that when collet and tube are fitted to motor and shaft there is about 3/16" minimum gap - allows rubber to flex but not flap around under power. If tube is tight should not require any clamping. Square section can be as short as 1/4"

Plastic tube works well and using hot water to soften it a smaller diameter can be forced over the square section and will shrink to fit. I have used this method where space was limited and shaft/motor were well out of line.

Alternativly buy a proper UJ

Paul Bannon

[Steppenrig]

Bannon,

Much thanks for your advice.

I have just taken your second suggestion (before I read your reply) and bought 2 proper uni joints. My main reason for trying to not buy a proper UJ was that I though they were more expensive.

Next time I try taking a shortcut I should get one of you blokes to tell me that I'm being daft

Cheers

Dave