After my post about modifying the roller cam sprags to fit the Mk3 i was asked if they would fit the CNW e start conversion kit (as apparently they use the same size of sprag i was told) Upon looking at the CNW design it is obvious that the installation of the sprag in the e start kit is not how the sprag is designed to be fitted. These sprags are designed to run clear of the inner race when in operation (engine running)
In the Mk3 commando, the centrifugal force throws the dogbones away from the drive gear snout.
In the CNW drive gear/engine system, the sprag is stationary (it fits in the drive gear) so there is no centrifugal force to throw the dogbones clear, and when the engine is running the dog bones are constantly dragging their heels on the engine pulley snout. So a sprag failure is baked in from the start.
My question to all CNW e start kit users, how many have suffered sprag failure?
My answer to the chap who asked me about the sprag fitting into a CNW e start kit, was to treat the sprag as a service item, replace it at regular service intervals, and hope CNW come up with an upgrade to correct this mistake.
In the Mk3 commando, the centrifugal force throws the dogbones away from the drive gear snout.
In the CNW drive gear/engine system, the sprag is stationary (it fits in the drive gear) so there is no centrifugal force to throw the dogbones clear, and when the engine is running the dog bones are constantly dragging their heels on the engine pulley snout. So a sprag failure is baked in from the start.
My question to all CNW e start kit users, how many have suffered sprag failure?
My answer to the chap who asked me about the sprag fitting into a CNW e start kit, was to treat the sprag as a service item, replace it at regular service intervals, and hope CNW come up with an upgrade to correct this mistake.
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