Idler pulley

Those idler sprockets would indeed work.
A few points of concern would be...

  • They are usually not available to fit bicycle chain (especially thinner shifter compatible chain).
  • They are probably not available in 4-6" diameter for bicycle chain.

You could try "machining" one down by attacking it with a flap disc if you can find at least the correct pitch.

Brad
 
Here's what I used for my SWB build, cost about 5 quid a pair as I recall......
15.jpg


Already had the holesaw - used for fitting door locks.........
17.jpg



Finished idler......
18.jpg


And installed - runs great and no issues.
20.jpg
 
This was discussed several times over the years and I believe it was determined that a sprocket actually brings to the tale more friction?
Thus reason for flat, non toothed idler pulley.
 
SJ - just knocked up a thin card template with the hole centres on it, then centre-punched them through on the plastic for drilling........mind you, the holes are just decorative, not really needed.

Mr I - not claiming to me a chainologist, but my understanding is chains are designed to run on their rollers, rather than side plates, so to me sprockets make sense for both drive and return runs. Also, getting them in the centre of the run, with the least amount of deflection, should me aimed for.
 
MrIdaho said:
This was discussed several times over the years and I believe it was determined that a sprocket actually brings to the tale more friction?
Thus reason for flat, non toothed idler pulley.
Click to expand...
After a few hundred miles my smooth pulley is no longer smooth

FrankCrank said:
SJ - just knocked up a thin card template with the hole centres on it, then centre-punched them through on the plastic for drilling........mind you, the holes are just decorative, not really needed.

Mr I - not claiming to me a chainologist, but my understanding is chains are designed to run on their rollers, rather than side plates, so to me sprockets make sense for both drive and return runs. Also, getting them in the centre of the run, with the least amount of deflection, should me aimed for.
Click to expand...

Nice job Frank my source of pulleys appear to have dried up , will try knocking up a couple next time .

regards emma
 
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