Axl said:Thanks for the thoughts Bob! I would rather use a bearing of some sort ... I just dont have access to a welder etc. The binding issue will probably hinder me... you are most likely right on the money there. I just wish I knew of some way to make this with 4x4's and the rigid conduit that I already have. If I could find something like pillow block bearings that could be attached to the top of the 4x4's, I think Id be in business. :?
I've seen pillow block bearings at the farm stores around me (farm & fleet, TSC). Also, McMaster Carr http://www.mcmaster.com/ sells them too, but they are not cheap. In the end still better & less expensive than a commercial reel. You could probably bolt a flat piece of lumber to the top of the 4x4 & then bolt the pillow block to that. No welding needed.
How much deflection do you get with that 1" rigid in the middle loaded & unloaded?
Bob