Vintage Windmill and Wind Generator Forum

Good morning from Bulverde Texas. I’m completely new to windmills. I recently bought a Dempster 8’ #12A. I had to buy a new gearbox and replace the spider wheel I had from another shaft. It been out in the weather for decades. Can everyone give me some pointers about removing this wheel without damaging or breaking it? Picture of wheel attached.
Thanks. David Barclay

David, bring your rusty part over to New Braunfels & i will help you remove.
I even have the "heat wrench " when all else fails.
Mike Blahnik
New Braunfels

Mike,
Good morning. Thanks! I have it soaking in vinegar right now. If this doesn’t to the trick I’ll stop by.
Where are you located?

In New Braunfels behind the Harley Davidson dealer.

David, check your private messages

Okay, here's the trick. Every Dempster hub like that comes with it's own removal tool. Take the nut and bolt that come out of it, and install it like this.....Put the nut in the space, and the bolt thru one side, into the nut. Put an 1/8 inch piece of metal between the nut and hub. As you screw the bolt, the bolt will come out the other side of the nut and press on the piece of 1/8 metal. opening up the hub.

MAKE SURE the end of the shaft is ground down with no mushroom.
MAKE SURE you just slightly put pressure on the hub, and you WILL crack it if you over tighten the bolt.
Works every time.
If you screw it up, don't blame me. If you are successful, thank me later. LOL

Hey Windybob. Thanks for the reply. I think I understand what you’re saying. Sounds like you’ve done it a few times.
I ended up taking the whole shaft over to Mike’s (above Mike) and I’m telling you he has every tool you need to fix anything on the planet. We worked on it for an hour and a half and finally got it free. Hammers, chisels, heat, wax and some good ol elbow grease! I appreciate your advice. Thank you again.

Good! Glad you got it without incident!