It has never been easier to build a complete Great Ball Contraption (GBC) loop yourself! The GBC 37 Ratchet Ride features a ratchet pump mechanism which moves the conveyor belt one step at a time. The GBC can be used as a self contained loop or participate in a GBC layout. Using a more accessible LEGO Set and focusing on one single mechanism this GBC is by far one of the best GBCs to get started.
This GBC is entirely built using only parts from the LEGO Compact Crawler Crane and can be referred to as model C of the 42097. This GBC makes sure you master the GBC building techniques and tricks so that you eventually also can build your own GBCs. By default the whole machine is powered by hand but it can easily be upgraded with any LEGO motor (more information in the building instructions).
An elegant mechanism with beautiful performance
The GBC 37 Ratchet Ride really is a unique module and puts all control in your hands! You can adjust the height, slope, input and output! Altogether, this smooth running module is a perfect GBC to get started in GBC building! Learn about the ratchet mechanism, gearing, clever lever systems and more.
The GBC Balls go up on the long conveyor belt after which they are being dropped in a catch tray. By default this catch tray guides the balls back to the beginning of the module so the ball flow never ends. However we includes a rotating system which makes it possible to point the output ramp in any direction you want (320 degree freedom). In this way you can guide the balls to the output (on to the next module).
By default this module is powered by hand. A small drive handle in the middle can be rotated to power the conveyor belt. By rotating the most left handle you can control the height and slope of the conveyor belt.
Fun Fact
We knew from the beginning that this GBC Module was gonna be very unique and would bring us many challenges. As you may notice on the part list of the LEGO 42097, there are no driving sprockets included to drive the conveyor belt. So the main focus became quickly to figure out how to drive the conveyor belt in an elegant and efficient way. The ratchet mechanism seemed to be the perfect choice!
-
- LEGO 42097 Compact Crawler Crane
-
- GBC 37 Ratchet Ride – 42097 C Model
Building Instructions Preview
Preview
Try before you buy. We completely understand. See the building instructions previews on the left or try one of our free building instructions.
Upgrade your GBC 37 Ratchet Ride
In the building instructions is explained how to easily upgrade the GBC 37 Ratchet Ride with various parts.
Power & Automate
How cool is that!
Learn more!
Get the accessories
We have GBC Balls, handy electronics products and fun accessories available. Take a look at all our accessories!
The GBC 37 Ratchet Ride all over the world
Upload today & Check all other Fan Builds
Patrick –
A good GPC for which I like the “jerk” movement, via the clicking system.
Good idea for using Gear Racks and the belt drive system.
Assembly was quick and easy, without even having to adjust anything !
I appreciate the possibility to add a motor, and to plug the output ramp towards to another module.
Snezhana Borisova –
Thanks for the amazing model, great instructions
James Bisgrove –
Excellent instructions and the model is brilliant!
paweturalski –
I like size of this GBC. I am really surprised, model works flawless. I think it works too slow to use it in layout. I like idea with rotatable ramp. Nice for small home layout.
Final rate: 7/10
DLzaLUG –
The instructions are excellent, of a high quality and resolution, and were easy to follow along. Great value for money, and a painless ordering and paying experience. The build was easy enough (instructions are actually even better than TLG ones in my view).
I was very happy with the finished module, and the design of the ratchet mechanism is very clever (so simple, but effective). I did battle a little bit to get the module aligned nicely, the driving arm that connects to the ratchet mechanism kept snagging, but with a little poking and prodding of axles it was sorted. My advice would be to ensure that you have the ratchet mechanism working smoothly and without any friction or snagging of the parts before you put the conveyor on.
The module runs well and with some fine adjustments to part alignment the drive mechanism settles down. It all works well and is consistent and reliable in mini loop mode.
I bought this module with the intention of modding it for large GBC displays for our LUG. To get to one ball per second I added a lot more friction pins to the conveyor built to pickup balls more regularly. I simplified the drive mechanism, and moved the electric motor and a new gearbox to closer to the drive shaft of the conveyor. The input basket was increased in size to prevent ball leakage, and I modded the output ramp to allow for left/right side dropping of the ball into the next module input. If you are just getting started, none of these changes are necessary
Overall, as someone with a bit of experience in GBC, and with a fair knowledge of Technic building (both sets and some MOCs) I think this is an excellent set of instructions. The module is an excellent introduction to anyone who hasn’t built a GBC Module before, and as PV state on their product pages, the instructions and building of the module really do get you thinking like a GBC creator. It is also an excellent eye-opener for how far you can take a relatively small amount of pieces to create a complicated machine.
I look forward to getting another set of instructions soon!