Gilmer Drive Clutch

mdriver · Post by **mdriver** » Sat Oct 18, 2014 6:21 pm

I am cleaning up my clutch/shaft before adding new bearings and noticed from an previous post by mickyd https://forum.shopsmith.com/viewtopic.php?p=32871#post32871 that his washer layout is reversed from the way mine came apart.

Great post of information BTW!!

Please see my pictures at:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/rwh0rt7grcpr7lz/AADSyRfSDRSRzgcYT-41WOp2a?dl=0

I'm not disputing his opinion (or great work) but just wish to know what other folks have come across. I have no idea if someone tore apart mine and reassembled in the wrong order. I do know this is how it came apart.

Missing from picture:
the fitted "condom" on spline shaft end but is stored in a zip-loc bag on workbench.

Please advise.
Thanks,
Mark Driver

rpd · Post by **rpd** » Sat Oct 18, 2014 7:50 pm

It has been several years since I rebuilt the Gilmer clutch on my Greenie but I don't think reversing the order will make any difference.

I rubbed all the plates on a sheet of 1000 grit sandpaper to clean them up, removed rust from the metal plates and slightly roughened the fiber plates.

After I had it reassembled and tested the torque, it passed:), I discovered one of the fiber plates sitting on the bench:o.

This leads me to believe that the design is quite forgiving.

mdriver · Post by **mdriver** » Sat Oct 18, 2014 8:07 pm

Thanks. After looking at it deeper I agree. As long as the disks can slip it's all good.
The torque test should reveal a slip action (by way of shaft rotating inside clutch housing) or a click feel at 10 -20 ft-lbs?

Thanks