I'm a little slow, but I'm catching on!
Taking the combined advice given to me today, I moved the rigging and here are my revised readings:
Using an applied weight of:
- 5 lbs ====> 157 lbs . . . a force multiplier of 31x
- 10 lbs ====> 265 lbs . . . a force multiplier of 26.5x
- 15 lbs ====> 350+ lbs . . . a force multiplier of around 23.3x (topped out the scale)
That makes me much happier! Now I need to figure out how to clean up the modifications. I'd like to be able to hook up and go when I need to press.
The strange thing is, the 1-inch square tube bends with applied force. I guess I didn't expect it to
give so much. I also need to goose the hanging weight to arrive at the final terminal applied force. The goosing ensures that the rope isn't cinched on the pulleys and that the full pressure is brought to bear, otherwise the whole system creaks and creeps, applying pressure a little at a time until it reaches its terminal point.
Farmer & Alex - You're right about the length of the lever. I knew it was a class 2, but for some reason my mind plugged in that division at the ramrod point. I stand corrected. You're right too, Farmer, this burns out brain cells. I'm toasted...but better informed now.
Farmer - I understand your u-bolt visual now. There isn't a lot of lateral play in the lever arm so I'm not too worried about it slipping off the pin in the ramrod. I will monitor it though.
Alex - I admire your ability with cabinet-making/woodworking. Your press is closer to artwork. I'm afraid I'm limited in those areas and so I have to settle for a more brute-force approach.
-Boofer-
P.S. I sleep better tonight.
Guys, thanks for the steerage.[/list]