With masses of tape and whatever I had lying around on the modelling desk, I rigged up a prototype of the sheaves and spout to see if I can make the spout raise and lower. The real spout would been connected to counterweights to hold it up when not in use, with the connection being made with chains so it would work through the winter.
It turns out, it is challenging to get the counterweights to work when the chains weigh almost as much as the spout itself. The 3D-printed spout has a hollow design to include a 3/32″ brass slug. This was heavy enough to pull the counterweights up once it got to about 45 degrees, but between vertical and 45 degrees, the spout had to be pushed down because its centre of gravity was too close to the makeshift sheaves, and the weight of the chain about doubled the counterweights.
I’ve considered using a lighter material, like thread for the chains, but the assembly almost works. So, I spent the rest of the evening working on a spout that is half plastic and half brass. The brass half is heavier than the slug in the prototype, and because it is the spout end, the centre of gravity will be further away from the tank.
Pembroke:87 