Webster ic engine question

I have put this question in the "beginners question" as this is my first ic engine.

The plans show the flywheel is fixed with roll pins once the builder is ready to time it up. Has anyone fitted the flywheel with grub screws instead so they can be loosened and the crankshaft turned to time it.? Going by using the grub screw method on my steam engines I would feel a lot more confident if you feel it is acceptable. Any thoughts appreciated thanks.

Ray

I see no reason why you can’t use a grub screw, if I were building one I certainly would be using a grubscrew.

The notes on the drawings say to fit the roll pins AFTER the engine has been timed so just use a grub screw until you have it running OK and then it can be pinned.

These open crank engines can have a bit more of a kick to them so there is a risk of a grub screw slipping and scoring the crankshaft.

As an alternative to pins you could use a key in suitable key ways which is what I usually use.

Thanks Baz/Jason B

I can see where your coming from there Jason. I suppose if using grub screws, once timed I could drill a little into the crank to give a bit more integrity. I haven't done keyways yet but it is another option to try on future projects. I am at least happy that yourself and Baz have not told me "no way use grub screws"

Ray

I just found a thread on HMEM concerning this issue. The guy used set screws and due to the kickback as Jason mentioned the set screws came loose. He did cure this by adding flats on the crankshaft and plenty of loctite but on the strength of it i'm now going with the plans and using roll pins.

thanks for your help guys anyway