Link Belts

[Gramps]

Has anyone tried the link-belt on the Simplex, Whizzer or others that use belts?
This is on a 1901 Steffey restored by Dave Bagne.

[pd]

I'm not so sure that link belt would function correctly in the automatic transmission .

Pete .

[kartjockey]

There are link belts that are just like the vee belts.

[pd]

If the configuration / shape is similar , then they would likely be fine to run .
I've read that folks have had trouble when the drive and driven pulleys are opposed ( one horizontal and one vertical ) , but that's not a problem for our usage .
I think the link belt would actually add to the vintage look . I wonder if they take paint or other coloration well .

Pete .

[Mike Sal]

I think the cost of the link belt would exceed the loss of performance over a conventional belt (unless your building a trailer queen that doesn't get ridden).

That's a cool bike.  I'd like to see more photos of the motor......where are the timer & plug wires going?
Mike Sal

[pd]

So , you think the link belt would slip , Mike ?

[Mike Sal]

I think the amount of stretch would be more than a Simplex's idlers could compensate for.
Mike Sal

[pd]

Stretch can be adjusted by removing a link .

From what I've read , there is a short break in period . Once the belt is stretched and adjusted , no further stretch occurs . But , those accounts are from shop machine users , table saws and drill presses and such . I don't know how much they would stretch on our bikes .

Pete .

[.38 Spcl]

I have never seen these belts but think it would be a GREAT look on my 1938 Direct Drive project, is it safe to assume that these belts have been around for some time and would be period correct for 1938?

[Mike Sal]

Link belts have deep roots in the industrial revolution.  before modern rubber v-belts came to be, power was transmitted thru chains, web belts, or leather belts.  They were pretty much obsolete by the 30's, but would still look cool on an early bike.
Mike Sal

[pd]

I'm not sure just when the link V-belts came into being .

History tells us that the linked flat steel heavy machinery drive belt / chain was invented in 1874 . The 'look' is similar .  It seems the early link V-belts were not as strong as the solid construction V-belts . I'm not so sure that is still the case .

This from an Ebay ad :

"Jason's Accu-Link adjustable v-belt is the ideal temporary replacement or permanent substitute for conventional rubber v-belts. Made from a urethane elastomer reinforced with a rugged polyester fabric, Accu-Link maintains precise tension, delivers maximum power on multiple-belt drives and operates at the same horsepower ratings as rubber belts. Via an exclusive Jason manufacturing process, custom special profiles can be achieved without hard tooling. Easy to assemble and install."

http://www.ebay.com/itm/ACCU-Link-Size-B-5-8-X-4-Adjustable-V-Belt-Adjustable-Link-Belt-Jason-/231141356642

If I'm not mistaken , our bikes require the 5L width , which is 5/8" , which is size B in the link V-belt .

Pete .

[Gramps]

Mike there are lots of pictures of the Steffey on the Us Scooter Museum. http://usscootermuseum.com/steffey.htm
The link type belt is on a original 1901 Steffey.

[.38 Spcl]

Thank you! !!