Can Worm Gear Work w/ Spur Gear for Model?

[shwagy357]

Does anyone know if it is possible to get a worm gear mechanism to work using a spur gear. I am just trying to make a small model of a worm gear out of acetal plastic for demonstration purposes only. I am thinking it might work as long as the pitch on the lead screw, is the same or a little larger than the pitch on the spur gear. What do you guys think?

 

[Danger]

You can do it, but it's not pretty. I've had to use a system like that in an emergency a couple of times. Your gear life is pretty short compared to a properly matched set, and there's a lot more mechanical loss due to friction, impact loading, etc..