Simple clutch

[Brian Peck]

Ok Folks,

I'm building my little side-paddle launch with a Wilsesco steam
engine. The problem is I need some sort of very simple clutch for the
drive belt. I'll have a belt running from the engine to the paddle
shaft and would like the option of getting the engine going without
the paddles slapping the water immediately. Something more graceful
is desired. Any ideas?

Thanks
Brian

[george britnell]

Hi Brian
If you are going to use the spring type belt that
Wilesco uses for driving their accessories why not
just slip it off of the the pulleys until you get the
engine cleared and up to temperature then just remount
it. If you use some other type of belting you could
leave slack in the belt and fabricate a spring loaded
idler pulley with a detent to hold it away until you
are ready then unhook it from the detent and let it
fall against the belt. Maybe with these ideas you
might have some of your own.
Sincerely,
George D.Britnell

[KC6OLD]

Brian,
Siveral year ago I built a "magnetic " clutch with a ferro magnetic fliud (
VERY Fine iron oxide in light oil) when in a magnetic field is turns solid,
it's great! with the high power permanent magnets you wouldn't even need slip
rings!


Dave, Chief Engineer & Sump Cleaner
Foggy Bottom's Boatyard