Is there a metal idler wheel?

[John-Forrest]

I am wondering if there is such a thing as a METAL idler wheel - instead of the cheap plastic ones we usually use. My wheels seem to wear out and crack - also have problem with wheel getting stuck, not moving - chain just slides over it.

Do we really NEED these chain adjuster, idlers? They just seem to create resistance and make it hard to peddle bike. I don't see them on motorcycles or bicycles or mopeds - so why do we need them? Because chain is too long? Then make chain shorter.

John

 

[levsmith]

I am wondering if there is such a thing as a METAL idler wheel - instead of the cheap plastic ones we usually use. My wheels seem to wear out and crack - also have problem with wheel getting stuck, not moving - chain just slides over it.

Do we really NEED these chain adjuster, idlers? They just seem to create resistance and make it hard to peddle bike. I don't see them on motorcycles or bicycles or mopeds - so why do we need them? Because chain is too long? Then make chain shorter.

John

Im not sure if there is one but i think i am going to make one in my class for my bike, i have 2 bearings that i didnt use, so i might be able to make one for you but i wont gaurantee anything until i can figure out how much time i have. are you looking for a steel or aluminum one?

 

[hot70cc]

i'm thinking if you use a metal wheel your gonna ruin your chain from metal to metal friction grease or no grease. I would stick with the plastic one, or just remove it all together. IMO

 

[Mountainman]

many engines out in the working (trades) world use metal
they work very well and with good bearings -- very long lasting
small engine parts stores carry them

there are also many good types noted here on this site

ride that thing

 

[HERPER]

theres a avery good thread about this issue.. i would search for it. they basically bought some random parts from tractor supply co. (around 15 $$) and made a springloaded heavy duty tensioner. i plan on making one myself.

 

[heathyoung]

There are cheapies on fleabay - for minibikes etc.

A lot of motorbikes use them where there is a lot of movement in the swingarm (ie. dirtbikes, supermoto etc.)

 

[Gungatim]

I picked up a small diameter metal one from local hardware. It is an idler wheel for lawn mowing decks, universal, so most TSC's have them in the pulley and v-belt department. They have a bearing in them and a wide flat face where the chain/belt rides. I haven't used it yet, but it should be a good substitute on my next build.

 

[DeusIgnis]

from http://www.zbox.com.au/tips.htm

I also made a new idler gear as my tensioner:
- I bought a bmx free wheel sprocket, removed the ratchets inside so it freewheels back and forward and greased the bearings, about 60 of them (30 each side).
- I grounded the sprocket teeth down to get a smooth rolling effect.
- Made a male thread to suit the sprocket with a drill hole in the centre and new pin.
Then, once the chain located the spot where the sprocket was going to be, I loctited the pin so that the sprocket revolves on it's own 60 bearings, and the chain runs so smooth - best thing I ever did.
http://www.zbox.com.au/images/Pic_1.jpg
http://www.zbox.com.au/images/Pic_2-1.jpg

 

[Mountainman]

tensioner a little closer to engine ?

from http://www.zbox.com.au/tips.htm

that's a pretty nice looking chain tensioner setup you made there

as I look at your second picture listed
question
do you think that it may be a good idea
to remove some chain lenks
thus moving the tensioner a little closer to the engine ?

was just thinking about how most
tensioners appear on motor cycles

ride that thing

 

[MotorMac]

website

Thanks Deusignis,thats a terrific website thats full of very interesting ideas and tips! theres some things on it that Im going to try on my bike.