I think it is the material I’m using for the belt. When I connect the ribbon, and not ride seats are attached, it works wonderfully. I put the seats back on, and the ribbon looses grip with the axles (ferris wheel and center). I tried a rubber band, and it seems to be too elastistic and it doesn’t work with the seats on. I found some car tires and I have glued on onto the center axle. Once dry, I’ll see if that helps with the ribbon material and rubber band(s). I’ll keep you all posted. I’ll need to go out and play in the snow later - we got about 5" and still counting. Nothing like N.E. got though. I’m sure those up north east (like Bob) are tired of it already.
Matt, I made 2 nice pullies for my racer using plastic train wheels. Remove the shaft, file down the outside hub then glue them together.
Maybe you can do the same on your ferris wheel to increase the diameter of that upper shaft.
