Rattling bendix -disaster averted

[AdminJeff]

I finally got the bugs worked out of the new Laycock Overdrive in the T and was about to take it for a test drive. I hit the starter and heard a strange bell-like rattle that sounded like it came from the bendix. Only when engaging the starter. So, wanting to avoid a costly mistake, I took the bendix cover off -what a pain, it never gets easier - and I found the front bendix screw was loose, almost to the point of coming out causing the bendix spring to rattle more than it normally does. The keeper washer had broken one of the tabs thus allowing the bolt to work loose. Easy and cheap fix.

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Moral of the story, when something doesn't sound right, figure out what it is and take the time to fix it. It might prevent MAJOR repair costs down the road. If that screw had come out, all kinds of mayhem and destruction could ensue in ALL the wrong places. And don't reuse those keeper washers. Metal fatigue happens easily on little tabs like those.

AdminJeff
PS the Laycock overdrive is amazing. I should have added that long ago. I can keep it in low Ruckstell around town no problem now.

[Rich Eagle]

Good catch Jeff. I know that sound. Amazing how they can come loose sometimes. Even when we try our best.
Rich

[John Warren]

And talk about an oil leak when it knocks the bendix cover loose! Good catch, I use lock tite on those bendix bolts now. A friend has that over drive, with a push or pull of the switch it is in or out, with the ruckstell it is an amazing combination! If you ever get back in town look us up! Also a great run in St George in April.

[Oldav8tor]

I'm a firm believer that "Nothing happens without a reason" - The codicil to that is "Ignore it at your peril!"

Good catch!