Which suppliers do you use?

[neil_1821]

I've been having a hard time lately finding UK suppliers for general components for my hoglet build. I've got most metal and i've managed to source gears, sprockets and a chain. The one item I am struggling to find are the valve springs.

Obviously I'm trying to stick as close as possible to the ones detailed in the BoM but many companies require a minimum order which is an extorionate amount including postage.

Can anyone direct me to a place that isn't so mainline/commercial use??
Many thanks

 

[michael-au]

You can make your own valve springs out of piano wire

 

[deverett]

I don't know the sizes of springs that you are looking for, but old printers, photocopiers and the like are a good source of springs, among other goodies. If you need larger diameter springs, the kitchen pump bottles could yield something useful.

Like Michael said above, you could always make your own. If you are not confident, then read
http://web.archive.org/web/20130918155928/http://home.earthlink.net/~bazillion/intro.html
to learn how to do it.

My first spring was a tapered item following the teachings of the above link and it came out satisfactorily.

Dave
The Emerald Isle

 

[Jasonb]

Entex has a good range and will supply small amounts & accept patpal

http://www.entexstocksprings.co.uk/

HPC will also do small orders

http://www.hpcgears.com/n/products/mechanical/springs/springs.php

Like Dave I use odd springs salvaged from various things but on something like the Hoglet you can bet you will only have 3 of teh size you need and not 4.