LONG BELT

[COLD]

I was thinking :lol: actually I have been thinking all along I would like to mount the engine in the bottom of the boat and do a long belt. Most long belts I have seen have steel or cast iron boxes that the belt rides in for structual and loads. Is there any overwhelming reasons why I shouldn't build my prop tower out of steel tube? I think it would look cooler, be lighter and I know it would be wise to cover the belt when the unit is not being enjoyed to reduce sun damage to the belt but!

 

[Whitebear]

I've seen a bunch of homebrew backyard rigs with the motor in the bottom of the boat and the prop on a jack-shaft with both belts and chains. The ones I saw had several "V" belts doing the drive. I have seen pictures of chains, but I think safety would dictate belts in case of catastrophee.

I see no reason you cant build it with steel boiler pipe or something.

Scotty

 

[COLD]

I thought 4130 chrome molly. I have a 8 stud wheel hub, this one is tougher than a one ton full floating truck hub and use the same kind of material for the shaft., about 2' 4130 tube. Take a look at "Airboat Drives" http://www.airboatdriveunits.com/849done.jpg pics and tell me if it doesn,'t look like a wheel hub, (thanks by the way!) 8) . Gates polychain or Firestone (black max?) cant remember for sure thier product name right now however what I read is the Firestone is available up to 6" and handles more HP. My buddy said he will build the pulleys.