9/2/09

Block Work


I've made a start on the wooden block. I still need to drill holes lengthwise for the two bolts; bevel the hole at one side; get two bolts; and drill four more holes for the cord which I also need to find. Do I saw the block in half before I drill the holes? So I saw it in the middle of the hole across the shortest point in the middle, about 2.5"?

7 comments:

Anonymous said...

Before you split the block lengthwise, drill 4 cord holes near each corner.These parallel the center hole. Drill the bolt holes in the sides. perpendicular to the center hole and closer to it than the cord holes.It is easier to bevel the upper edge of the center hole with a rasp before the final lengthwise split.This cut would sever the bolts if they were in place. I use carriage head bolts (dome shaped heads) which will grab the wood. The other wood piece is drilled slightly oversized so the wood will slide on them to open the block. Wing nuts work best. If there is a gap when the block halves are put together. The skin can be forced into it with pressure. A thin plastic shim can be incerted over each crack after the halves are closed on the balls. Good luck

Anonymous said...

Excellent. Thanks. I guess large washers could possibly be used at each end of the bolts to spread the weight too?

I imagine the green baize I use could still be used as insulation, if it fits snugly, couldn't it?

Tim

Anonymous said...

You could use a washer under the wingnuts and bolt head. I like the carriage bolt since it will stay in the block and has a wide head. Use what you have though.The green baize can be used just be sure it does not keep the block halves from closing all the way. I weigh 75 kg and have had no prob with the block holding my whole weight. I began with a block and pulley system so that part of my weight was on the balls and part in my hands pulling the rope.This was hooked to a chain on a rafter.The more rope I pulled, the higher I go. This also allows me room to spin in front of the camera or swing back and forth as well as more vertically as I adjust the rope. This can also be used to lift yourself by the balls from behind which feels completely different and positions you looking at the floor. Put up a pic of your progress on the block.I will check back in about 4 1/2 hours.

Anonymous said...

I guess you could say that you are making a pillory for your testicles!

Anonymous said...

My best personal time for complete ball suspension was tonight. Habakuk was right. A tight fit is the best. Spinning 360 while fully suspended is a thrill!

Anonymous said...

You have me beat with 90 sec hang time. I assume that is after release of the rope and does not include getting up and down. I will keep working on it.

Anonymous said...

Any more progress with the block?
kbar