[modeleng] Re: Chain Sprockets

Hi Clif,

Having spemt many years on, (and off) as well as rebilding motorcycles and 
pushbikes, never harden a sprocket. A chain is a disposable item but if 
lubricated properly, ie with a lithium and graphite grease, should give 
thousands of miles in our hobby. A chain used to last me 5000 flogging miles 
on my old Honda, I have never changed a chain on my pushbike in over 25yrs 
of ownership and yes , it does get used on a regular basis. If it ain't 
bust, don't fix it, leave it be.

Dave.

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Clif Walker" <clif.gwr@xxxxxxxxxxxx>
To: <modeleng@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Wednesday, January 28, 2009 5:35 PM
Subject: [modeleng] Chain Sprockets


> Hi All,
> I am modifying one of my electric powered 5" gauge models from toothed 
> belt drive to chain drive and have a puzzle which I thought that I would 
> throw out for discussion.
> The Chain Sprockets which are bought in items and seem to be made from 
> very nice free cutting mild steel.
>
> Should they be Case Hardened or left in their soft state?.
>
> My thoughts go along the lines that if I case harden them will it wear the 
> chain? and if I leave them soft will the chain wear the sprockets?
> Bearing in mind that the chain can easily be changed, whilst the sprockets 
> require major work to replace,it would seem the be best to harden the 
> sprockets.
>
> Also could a compromise be the thing, with only the small sprockets being 
> hardened as the large sprockets have the load spead out more evenly.
>
> The chain is 1/4" pitch, the small sprockets have 8 teeth and the large 
> sprockets have 30 teeth.
>
> I await with  Blowlamp and Kasenite poised.
>
> Regards
>
> Clif
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