1:50 Dragline

[Rvjimd]

MM,

Thanks, very good description. I'll try that, I have been holding the bucket tight just to keep from spilling the material.

Related question for you - is there a perfect length for the tipping line ( is that what the short line is called, going from top of bucket to pulley, to drag rope shackle? I have messed with it about three times trying to figure out what works best. First I made it a bit too long and it would let the bucket tip too early. I have been shortening to get it to hold from tipping. I think when it is too short, the bucket won't hang empty and down properly. Maybe this is not going to come out perfect in such a small scale?

And, about the big gear. From the videos I have watched of full scales, I was under the impression that the big gear turns the same way ALL the time? Or does it reverse direction based on rope direction of the hoist?

I could probably drive the gear from an aux servo and not connect it to anything. It would look VERY COOL if that thing was turning!

[Rvjimd]

MM,

One more question/comment...

I have seen some 1:1 stuff operated as you describe and they really get that bucket swinging! Espically if they are dredging. Is the counterweight matched to the anticipated load, or force involved when they cast the bucket?

I will never be able to get that sort of moves out of my little model just due to the lack of momentum. I don't even think I could get that "look" if I used some slow motion tricks with the video.

Thanks again. I enjoy learning more about all this stuff.

Jim

[FlyingBeagle]

As I have said previously, I am very impressed by your entire setup, the pond, lock, and equipment conversion are awesome.

I have a coupe of questions? Have you thought about building barges out of something other than 2X6 lumber so that they are hollow and can hold more material? Also can you tell much of a difference on the tug when pushing empty barges compared to full barges? Just curious, Thanks again for sharing.