A few months back,I acquired a Dixon 4516 from a chum with the idea of converting it into a small, self propelled wheel barrow/loader. The attached pics show what has been done to this point. While there are quite a few 'home brew' powered loaders on the 'Net,I've not seen anyone using a ZTR chassis as the basis for one. If any of the membership has done something similar,please share your experience (good and/or bad).
That's correct,the oem wheels were far too small for any serious weight carrying payload. These are from a 72" Exmark ZTR,each wheel/tire with a 480lb max rating(this vehicle will never carry any weight close to that limit). Also,the wheel track was increased 2" each side to allow the larger wheels to caster 360 deg.
Recent progress regarding how to create a safeguard to prevent damage if tub is rotated past intended point and to dampen any potentially damaging stress/shock to winch when tub is loaded with heavier material. Bump stops will be added as well as a means to create resistance to keep cable taut as the tub reaches near vertical position.
The Franken-Dumper project is completed,these are the final pics to illustrate. Works great,tub capacity is 12 cu.ft.,empty weight is 530lb with gas/oil. The plate/bolt together chassis design of the DIXON made this conversion surprisingly easy....
