1/2 Scale "model" windmill

[arizonian]

I am building a 1/2 scale model of an Aermotor windmill and have some questions. This windmill is not a direct scaled down copy, but it should function like the real thing. Since I do not have a foundry in my back yard, all pieces are fabricated from plate, sheet and commercially available structural members. The wheel diameter is 48", the tower is 15' to the top, with the centerline of the wheel about 16' from the ground.

I do not have direct access to any of the windmills on the ranches that I have been to and I have never been lucky enough while I am out hunting to come across one that is being worked on .

Slew bearing: What type of slew bearing is at the top of the mast/bottom of the motor? Is there a seal, grease zerks, etc.? Is it oiled from the sump?

What keeps the motor attached to the mast besides gravity?

What keeps the u-shaped yoke guide in it's socket?

[Windcatcher530 Dan]

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[arizonian]

Thanks.

Pins to retain the guide. That's nice to know.

The bottom looks kind of dry and I don't really see a bearing. Looks like an early labrynth seal on the mast itself and a hollow "bolt" for a cap.

I'm sure I'll have more questions as the build progresses.

[Windcatcher530 Dan]

There's a washer that fits down inside the cup on the stem that the gear box sits and rotates on.the nut on top has a hole through it for the pump rod

[windybob]

Jeff lives in Phoenix. How close are you to there?

[arizonian]

Tucson is about 90 miles to 130 miles from Phx, depending on location.

I'm ignorant, who is Jeff?

[windybob]

Jeff is rockingjl. He has messed with mills before. Maybe worth the drive.?

[rockingjl]

Welcome to the forum arizonian

[Merlinn]

Welcome Arizonan!
Love your tag lines regarding gun control.
I loved shooting at windmills until I got one of my own….

[mtblah]

Vern , you are absolutely correct !