1 inch engine shaft workaround and charging system

[JKautoFab]

I am thinking about how im going about my Manco Quester project and i have several 1 inch shaft engines i could use that are big enough for the power i am looking for, but 1 inch TAVs and clutches are expensive and none of them have lighting systems or charging coils.

while considering a way to solve these issues i came up with something that would cover both, and im looking for input

I thought about running a small honda car alternator for 12v power, and a very small battery for voltage stabilization. then i wondered if i needed to run it off the engine or if i could run it off the jackshaft, and how much HP loss i would see

then i thought well i could run a 1:1 gear chain setup from 1 inch shaft to a 3/4 jackshaft that has a 3/4 TAV driver on it, as well as an alternator pulley.

looking for any info, comments suggestions anything im open.

i think i can get away with using a car alternator if the engine is up to it because ive got lots of room in the rear under the fenders to work with. obviously this wouldnt be feasible for most mini bikes but im getting tired of no options for lighting


has anyone found a small engine 12v generator yet?

 

[Havasu Dave]

JK, back in the day, it was common to see horizontal engines mounted to plywood running alternators as a portable jump-start and charging system. Modern GM single wire alternators will charge at idle, so it would seem to me that you only need 1000 RPM on the alternator-although it may not be enough to fully charge a larger battery with heavy loads.

HP draw- well, you'd have some, since we've all heard the RPM drop at idle in the Family Truckster once the headlamps are turned on.

If you're only running lights, it seems to me like LED is the way to go. One guy here said something like 50 hours on 3 AAA's? Others talk about laptop batteries. Just recharge them once in awhile. Lots of information here on LEDs, and it looks like a way better option.

 

[JKautoFab]

yeah i reckon lights is all i need and LEDs are great. i used to strap a harbor freight work light to my go kart for night drifting. it would be cool to have a real charging system but im worried the weight and HP loss would be too great to be worth it

 

[jeepster360]

I think the jackshaft/alt idea is doable. Run the 1to1 chain to 3/4 jackshaft & tav. Run the alt coupled(direct drive) to the back side of the jackshaft tucked behind the engine. The alt should be internally regulated if possible. Should work if there is room behind the engine & rear wheel. A belt dive alt like you suggested would also work. Finding the smallest alternator is the trick. Good luck & keep us posted.

John