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How to Make a Pulley Out of a Wire Hanger

Simple machines are devices that are used to make work easier. A pulley is an example because it allows a single person to lift very heavy loads. A pulley consists of a wheel on an axle and a rope. Sometimes several of them are used in the same system. To make a pulley out of a wire hanger, use a spool and some string. The spool can come from ordinary thread, and can be plastic or wooden. Place it on the bottom rung of the hanger, which takes the place of the axle. Yarn or rope can be substituted for the string.

Things You'll Need

Wire hanger
Spool
Wire cutter
Pliers
String
Load such as toy or book

Instructions

- 1
  Cut the bottom part of the hanger in the middle using the wire cutter.
- 2
  Slide the spool over one cut end of the wire. Slide the other end inside, as well.
- 3
  Adjust the spool so that it is in the middle of the hanger. Push both of the wires so that the left end pokes outside the spool̵7;s right side, and the right end pokes outside the spool̵7;s left side.
- 4
  Place the pliers on one wire end, and bend it so that it does not slip out. Do the same to the other wire. Turn the spool with a finger to make sure that it can rotate freely.
- 5
  Place the hanger on a hook, coat hanger, doorknob, cup hook, or something similar.
  Tie the string or yarn around the load, and place the other end over the spool. Pull the string to lift the object up. If necessary, hold the hanger with one hand to prevent it from sliding.

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