can i weld a clutch onto a 8hp briggs crankshaft since i took the engine from a generator & there's no keyway

Question

The engine was from a generator so there was no clutch. Everyone keeps telling me to get a new engine, but I was wondering if it is safe enough to simply weld the clutch on.

Answer 1

I did..heres the pics...
http://www.minibikecentral.net/scootmaster.html

Answer 2

Is this a horizontal or vertical shaft engine> Actually not much difference in removing the crank. Remove flywheel, remove engine base and slip it off the crankshaft being careful to no ruin the seal or just relace seal with a new one on reassembly. Remove the two nuts on the rod bearing. Tap crankshaft with a soft mallet at flywheel end to push it out of the crankcase keeping track of the valve push rods. If you don't have a flywhel removal tool pry under the flywheel with a flat pry bar and with the flywheel nut turned out flush with the end of the shaft tap on the nut-crankshaft end, may take a good whack but be sure to keep as much pressure as possible under the flywheel so the play is taken up.

Answer 3

bad idea, in that if you get it on at all cruked, you will not be able to get it off. A machine shop should be able to cut a keyway, at least ask. In what may be a softer metal shaft, I drilled several holes side by side and filed, dremelled, etc., the remaining metal to make a slot in a low speed application.
I do torch welding and know arc welding, and I think welding a sleeve onto a shaft would be really tough.

Answer 4

I would not recommend it. Vibration or out of line will just break. Drill a hole in the crankshaft, go to your parts store and get a coupler that has rubber between the metal teeth. It's cheap and will work.

Answer 5

Yes just make sure you dont get it too hot and burn up the shaft seal.

Answer 6

yes