dnix71, sorry about the language barrier
we also refer to the gearbox part as a layshaft over here. What I'm talking about is a sort of idler shaft, between the engine and the generator, supported by a couple of bearings with a pulley on each end. The engine belted to one end and the other end driving the generator. Anyway, it seems you know what I mean. As for the Coventry Victor, there is only one place to take the power from and that is the flywheel, it only has one flywheel, unlike the old Lister CS which has one on both sides.
I'm all for keeping things simple so having an idler shaft between the engine, to me, just seems like more moving parts and more bearings to go wrong, that is why I want to know if I can change the direction of this generator/starter/dynamo.
joestue, that sounds promising, the only worrying thing is that when turned in the wrong direction, the brushes do make a chattering noise. It looks like I will have to do some more investigation and have a closer look at the brushes and holders. The rest of your reply does skim over the top of my head somewhat but I am getting better at this. I will discuss your comment with my brother (the brains behind the outfit
) and see what he thinks. It just so happens that he is picking up a very similar generator this weekend which I think rotates in the other direction, so maybe we can get a few ideas from that.
Thanks again for all the replies