9 replies to this topic

[Dahrich]

Hi:
I'm building a custom coaster and the chain keeps coming off the guide. I know alignment is critical but is there any way I can increase the guide side plate height?

I want to make it higher so it will keep the chain inside the guide?

Thanks,

Richard

[LaMbChOpZ]

Could you add photos first? It will be a lot easier for us to help you if we can see what you have built and exactly what's wrong.

[soggyhotdoggg]

The first couple of things you might want to look for is as to what is making the chain come off or your lift might not be straight. A more loose chain is what I use to prevent stuff like this from happening. But if all that is made sure of and it's still falling off, then yes, please show us a picture so we can help you out

[Dahrich]

The first couple of things you might want to look for is as to what is making the chain come off or your lift might not be straight. A more loose chain is what I use to prevent stuff like this from happening. But if all that is made sure of and it's still falling off, then yes, please show us a picture so we can help you out

It's too early in the design for a photo.
The project is to build a coaster on a somewhat unstable platform that could move 2-3 inches up or down. My concern is this motion may cause the chain to move around so much that it jumps out of the guide. Hence, the question.
The motion will not be violent or cyclical but random

[Rollerfreak987]

What do you want us to say then if there are no pictures to help you on?

[soggyhotdoggg]

I looked at your first post and just realized you want the slide plate higher. If higher is what you're looking for, then I have the solution your problem. I'll give you some pictures in a little bit. Would you prefer if I PM you them or just post them here?

EDIT: I'm sure there is another way to make it higher, but this is probably the easiest way.

[The Stig]

Start the chain a little higher up. Set up the gear so that the chain is tangent with the lift.
That will eliminate the slack at the bottom of the lift. That oughtta do the trick.

You may even want to add a tension gear, for added measure.

[Dahrich]

coastergeek987
Sorry but I'm still in the planning stage and don't have a photo. All I know at this time is the Knex coaster construction is flimsy and I will need to support it well. Therefore, my question

soggyhotdoggg
Thank you your thoughts. I can't do as in your photo but it gives me something to think about

[soggyhotdoggg]

Well first, what track are you using? Micro or regular track (VV or SS)

[Dahrich]

It's the green micro track