08 Shunter in 2 1/2

This topic has 9 replies, 7 voices, and was last updated 7 October 2015 at 11:22 by Ian S C.

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5 October 2015 at 16:56 #206732
Simeon Jackson
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@simeonjackson72962
I am in the process of designing and building a Class 08 shunter in 2 1/2" gauge and plan to drive this via an electric motor and chain drive to the main axle, however I am having trouble finding suitable chains and sprocket gears as I'm not entirely sure what I need to be looking for. Does anyone have any advice as to where to buy this sort of thing or is it easier to try to make one from scratch?
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5 October 2015 at 16:56 #1455
Simeon Jackson
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@simeonjackson72962
5 October 2015 at 17:18 #206738
JasonB
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@jasonb
You could have a look at HPC or Madler (they sell via Amazon).

Some of the sites dealing with Robotiocs are also worth a look

Edited By JasonB on 05/10/2015 17:18:58
5 October 2015 at 17:28 #206739
Bazyle
Participant
@bazyle
You might find small toothed belt systems used in printers and scanners suitable. What about Meccano chain drive. It was originally used in player pianos so capable of long tem operation. Is it too late to move to individual axle motors and fears like some of the 5in locos?
5 October 2015 at 18:58 #206749
John Baguley
Participant
@johnbaguley78655
HI Simeon,

Following Jason's suggestion have a look at Technobots website. They sell small chain and sprockets. They also have a sister company with a greater range.

http://www.technobotsonline.com/sprockets-and-chain.html

John
5 October 2015 at 22:22 #206762
IanT
Participant
@iant
Hi Simeon,

I think 6mm chain (and the matching sprockets) will probably suit your needs. As John B states – they can be purchased at Technobots, provided the available sprocket diameters/tooth sizes are suitable for your locos needs.

A year or so ago – I was looking for a source of small (3mm) chain for a 2.5" loco project but I couldn't find anything at the right price (at least in that size). In my case, the chain had to be quite small for cosmetic reasons (it was for a Sentinel and they were visible) and I finally used a Delrin chain (from Micromotion). This was just about OK for a small G3 shunting loco but it wouldn't work for a N2.5GA type passenger hauler.

If you can find a suitable small chain (possibly from a motorcycle timing chain?) then you could try to make your own matching sprockets. I believe this is do'able and you will find some good starting pointers for any such work here:

**LINK**

Regards,

IanT
5 October 2015 at 22:25 #206763
Simeon Jackson
Participant
@simeonjackson72962
Thanks for all the suggestions. I reckon the 6mm chain and sprockets will do the job nicely. Its now just a case of finishing designing things with these in mind.
6 October 2015 at 12:10 #206799
Ian S C
Participant
@iansc
It's quite possible to make a sprocket using a drill of suitable size, then a file to dress the tips of the teeth, done a few of them that way.

Ian S C
6 October 2015 at 12:36 #206806
duncan webster 1
Participant
@duncanwebster1
HPC do 4mm chain and sprockets at not ridiculous prices. I managed to find a local gear cutter man who made me some sprockets cheaper than I could buy them, but so far back in time that I can't remember his name. I too have made sprockets my drilling holes on apitch circle then filing till the chain ran smoothly. You need something good on the radio as it takes a long time, but is very satisfying when it works.

Edited By duncan webster on 06/10/2015 12:38:25
7 October 2015 at 11:22 #206918
Ian S C
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@iansc
I got some small chain from old photo copiers, there's two sizes, probably imperial, about 3/16", and 1/4"(I think).

Ian S C
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