I've read the pro and con discussion about a new approach for putting utube video content, MGR in particular, as individual threads under the 'appropriate' forum heading. I've chosen this one to comment.
My primary objection is this: The MGR format is generally divided into two parts, in this case DIY Shopsmith Speed Reducer and DIY Speed Reducer Q & A. To view the second part, I "must be a My Growth Rings youtube channel member.*" In other words, it is pay to view. Or in other other words, it is exclusive to SOME forum members. After reviewing the pro and con discussion, I feel exclusive content is inappropriate content. Yes, I know other members occasionally do this, for example citing plans or videos on another site that they have a membership (paid or not) for. The difference for me: occasional looks inadvertent.
In some cases, not citing this one in particular, the part 1 content is incomplete without the exclusive part 2 content. Should forum members that choose to only view the part 1 content be restricted from comment? (I'm going to comment, I viewed part 2 while it was inclusive.)
Is 'Community' the appropriate heading for this content? IMO it would be General Woodworking or Woodworking Tool Review.
Technical comment: I feel the exposed belts and pulleys of this approach present an unsafe hazard in the shop. I would urge caution. It has been standard practice of tool builders, for decades, to enclose belts and pulleys. At this instant I have at least seven belt driven tools in my shop, on every one of them the belts and pulleys are enclosed. If you make a speed reducer, I would urge you to enclose these portions. Belts and pulleys tend to grab clothes, hair, fingers, hands, pets, etc, and can result in painful and permanent injury. I use these guard more than 99% of the time that equipment is running. (I would put my honest number for an upper saw guard around 25%.) The only exception that comes to mind in my shop is balancing the belt tension in a SS PowerPro, which requires the belt cover to be out of the way while the machine is running. And yes, I'm also aware of Model 10's.
- David