Using a chain for a rack

[Mr Ron]

Using a chain is a common means of moving a trolley along a rail. The chain is tack welded to an overhead I-beam and a sprocket that is inside the trolley engages the chain. As the sprocket is turned, either by power or manually, it traverses the chain in rack fashion. My question is; can a chain be used in place of a rack for the rack and pinion drive? Racks are very expensive.

[Quadro]

Mr Ron,
It has been done and wasn't very sucessful. See this build #62 (http://www.mechmate.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2790).

[Zouave]

In comparison to the rest of the build, I think the rack is one of the less expensive and more important parts.

It really isn't much off a savings to go with a chain, and your performance will suffer.