running gear front axle design...

DENNIS MIN · Apr 8, 2017

All,

I am looking to build a steerable front wagon axle. I do not want the "fifth wheel" style. The intended purpose is quite specific as to height, weight, and width.

Has anyone built their own? I looked at several running gears and there seems to be quite a difference in designs.

I tried to buy a used wagon, but costs of purchase, cutting re-welding the frame and the overall work that would be involved seems that I would be better off starting from scratch.

Looking for any pointers. I intend to haul 1100 pounds at a low height,probably bed at 24 inches, about 5 foot wide and ten foot long.

Thanks,

D>

caterpillar guy · Apr 8, 2017

I think you can buy what you are looking for on gardening sites or Northern toool has one that is close for the weight just widen it and then lengthen it.
The geometry is the hardest part for the steering the rest is downhill. We use heavy plate depending on the size of wagon we are building then with a pin vertically weld a plat to the top and bottom of the axle with a tube between them for the vertical pin to slip in that makes your right to left then with another plate you can then put over the pin on top and bottom of the ones welded to the tube and axle fasten the tie rods to it with the tongue on the front of it. with the cross pin you now have your up and down pivot.
Use truck axles for this and never have had one break nor bend. I have pulled them out with a cat in the mud or 4 wd tractors. Truck frames are easiest as the axles are already fastened and square. The axle is a good place to weld to also.

WESnIL · Apr 8, 2017

EZ Trail in Arthur, IL made what you are looking for but don't know if they still do. Google it and see what you can find. I sure would not want to start from scratch on that type of project. There is not much sense in trying to re-invent the wheel if you will.

ztrmowers · Apr 8, 2017

looks to me like any gear would do that just put the little low profile rim tire assembly on on go with it. same wheel tire assembly used to be used on head carrier wagons. ez-trail etc used them. also in gemplers catalog etc.

jon f mn · Apr 8, 2017

They do sell them at Fleet Farm as well that should fit your bill. I did build a replica 1/2 scale wagon a while back for my brother. The hard part is the spindles and steering geometry which has to be right to steer correctly. I used the spindles from a garden tractor and made the rest. The measurements need to be real close to close on the steering components so everything works right. I copied a wagon and had to be withing 1/4" to get it to work.

DR. EVIL · Apr 8, 2017

Just buy a complete running gear from Northern Tool or E-Z Trail Mfg in Arthur, Illinois. Capacity of 2 tons would handle your 1100# with ease.

David G · Apr 8, 2017

I think you can buy a used running gear much cheaper than building one.

running gear front axle design...

DENNIS MIN

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caterpillar guy

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WESnIL

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ztrmowers

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jon f mn

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DR. EVIL

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David G

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