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Originally Posted by Tytus Gerrish
so, i guess im asking what parts, or manufactoring methods do others use to cut costs:?:
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There are always alternative ways to do things. Sometimes, the less expensive solution will be adequate, sometimes it won't.
I advocate looking at multiple ways for doing things, and pick the least expensive that does the job.
In the drive system, throw money at it. Bearings, good gears, high quality fabrication. Because, if it doesn't work, the consequences are enormous. And you just don't know in advance how much abuse the thing will have to withstand.
On other systems, you might be able to get away with bushings instead of bearings (or at least cheap bearings), lighter weight materials instead of steel, OTS Home Depot/Lowe's type parts.
I'll give away one "secret" for free for the coming year. Rules permitting, we plan to use hexagonal shafting on all rotational drive parts. After the failed or nearly failed key ways in so many of our shafts last year, we're not taking chances.