Rotary table from a gear reducer

[Canus]

I have a gear reducer that I would like to use to build a rotary table but am not sure how to go about this. Has anyone built a rotary table using a 90 degree gear reducer?

 

[Bob Korves]

What is a 90 degree gear reducer? Pics and/or description? Gear ratio?

 

[RJSakowski]

I recently watched a video by This Old Tony where he did just that. One of the concerns is the backlash in the gear reducer and how it is dealt with. A
standard RT uses a worm gear that has a taper to it so you can take up the backlash. This isn't possible with a typical worm type of speed reducer. Tony had about .040" of backlash and he intended to deal with the problem by rotating in one direction only and using a brake on the table.

 

[RJSakowski]

Has anyone seen a n RT made from the flywheel/ring gear from an automotive engine? While it most likely isn't accurate enough for machining purposes, it could work out very well for a welding rotary table.

A fairly simple build. An axle for rotation and the pinion gear from a starter with a variable speed motor to drive it.

 

[Canus]

Thanks to RJSakowski for the link as this is the direction I am planning on going but with a manual rather than a stepper drive. My gear reducer is heavier duty than the one Tony used and I plan on having a larger table. Also plan on using locking lugs to secure the table when in position. Not sure if I will need additional support for the table other than the supporting shaft. Would appreciate any additional thoughts on the subject.

 

[P. Waller]

Have at it, it will either do the particular work required or not do it, there is only one way to find out if it will.