Project Jet Kart v2.0

fabricating the bearing carrier

I figured this is a good time to get back to the power turbine section....this is where the most work in the past couple weeks has been accomplished.

Since the last update the shaft was completed, which was nothing more than adding a couple tack welds to insure that the press fit stays together. I also noted on the previous update that work on the bearing carrier was in progress. I was going to get fancy and machine it from aluminum...which I did start, but then decided to construct it from steel. I did this because using steel allows for it to be constructed in a more modular way.

Here is the main parts that will be used to make the bearing carrier.

I started by cutting a 3" piece of 2" pipe. I then traced out the original mounting holes on the power turbine and drilled them out. A 1.25" hole was then drilled in the center, and the 2" pipe tack welded into place.

A test fit was then done to make sure all the holes line up. I know it doesn't look like much yet, but it will make more sense here in a bit.

Traced out the pillow block bearing. Drilled and cut out.

Another 1.25" hole was drilled down the center.

Another test fit was done.

Two supports were welded to the sides of the carrier. This will help distribute load more evenly. 4 holes were drilled on the outer edges of the carrier. These will be used to mount to power turbine as well.

After removing all the parts and marking out drill points with a center punch, I drilled and tapped out the "ring" of the power turbine. I am adding an additional 4 mounts for added strength and torque load.

A shot after drill/tap.

Click for larger image

Click for larger image

Final shots after assembly and paint. I think it turned out pretty good. Note the steel spacers in between the "ring" and the plate of the bearing carrier. I added these to insure that nothing is to tight that would eventually warp the carrier, or off centers the bearing. Its pretty strong. I was able to place  my weight load on to the shaft (170 lbs) with no problems.

There will be more support added as well. Once the shaft is keyed, and the sprocket is added, the other end of the shaft will sit in a matching pillow block. Probably not necessary but will add double the support.

More to come soon!

 

 

 

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