Rope or Clothesline Tensioner

Description

I was replacing the clothesline with a new rope but the old tensioner was rusty and wouldn’t work. This is the replacement that can be used with up to half inch (12mm) rope.  You may need to manually rotate the cams to lock after tightening the rope. 

Printing

Print without support.   I sliced with a 0.25mm Z step and printed using ABS.  Note: ASA material may be better for outdoor use.

Assembly

2 -- M5-30mm screws

2 or 4 – M5 nuts

Insert the screws through one of the frames then drop in the cams and add the other frame.  When the cams are installed make sure the gears mesh so that the cams will tighten the grip on the rope (note: there is a right and left side, if installed backwards the cams release their grip when the rope is pulled).

Leave some slack when tightening the nuts so the cams can rotate freely.  A drop of super glue on the threads will prevent the nuts from loosening, or, a second nut may be used to jam the nuts.