A cheaper clutch

[Miles]

I've had this idea for a most likely, much cheaper clutch than a centrifugal one, I realize unless the bottom pulley was protected from water, it would slip very easy when wet, but anyways. So, this thing basically is engaged and disengaged by the belts tension, a small idler pulley connected to an arm could be used to tighten the belt for drive, pull the arm up and the belt is disengaged. the belt might burn out over time, but its cheaper than replacing a clutch.

 

[Miles]

just had another idea, where the brake serves both as a brake, and as the tension releaser for the clutch. as the brake is applied, the belt tension loosens, allowing for easy operation of the clutch, also, this was the gas and brake can be pressed at the same time with no problems

 

[kra]

I've been thinking of the same sort of setup, using a heavy spring to keep the belt tensioned and having the pedal disengage the belt when you pressed it, just like the clutch pedal in a car. Not only would it be cheaper, but it would give you more control over the engine unlike the all-or-nothing way a centrifugal clutch works

 

[karl]

A centrifugal clutch is 30$ , I would rather just go buy one that mess with pullys and belts.

 

[devino246]

unless you have a scrapyard in your backyard, you'll end up spending way more than $30 or $40 on pulleys, jackshafts, belts, etc.

The clutch your describing though is a belt tensioner system. Theyre often used on riding lawnmowers and tillers.

 

[jrmints1415]

this idea has been around forever and has been done by many cheap karts. Your idea, no. A usable idea, yes. But i would much rather buy a clutch, it is way better! BTW karl a clutch for a belt is around $60

 

[jrmints1415]

also i can see your design has a flaw, you want to tension it in rather than out.

 

[Doc Sprocket]

... And, you'll want to have the tensioner act upon the slack side of the belt, which in the case of your sketch is the bottom.