Prototype Cat Tractor and Road Groomer

[RM model Mack]

oops

[RM model Mack]

Awesome idea! I do have a tank/pump setup from an abandoned tracked brush fire vehicle project and will try to retrofit them.

On a side note...

The XL 2.2 tires have created some issues in the form of...
1. inner tire rub on the leaf springs at full steering lock (even at 55% EPA)
2. too tall gearing. The disruptor trans has the smallest pinion in it, so no further reduction options available

so here it is on 1.9 mud bashers. These slow the tractor down a lot and eliminate rubbing even at 120% EPA. Looks more scale now too I think but I'm open to opinions (1.9 vs 2.2)

[Lmackattack]

I think the small tires look just as good. The real test will be what tires give better traction for when it's grooming? I suspect the smaller tires would. as far as gearing. What turn motor is in it. You might go to a higher turn to slow it down?

[RM model Mack]

Ok good to hear. Will stick to 1.9's for now and do some 1.9/2.2 comparison testing as soon as it dries out. Lots of rain in NJ today.

Its a 35 turn motor. I have a 55 and will try it.

[RM model Mack]

Painted land leveler implement and the 1.9 wheels. Also added a fuel tank

[RM model Mack]

Did some testing in the backyard test facility today.

The 1.9's sunk and dug in immediately so went back to 2.2's. These solved the traction issue and the gearing is OK.

Some videos of the first runs...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pk7sHrLft6M

This design seems to do a better job in the loose stuff (paver base)...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWDPGXH2aS4

[kroll62]

It looks like it runs pretty well. The implements you made work nicely too. Great work. Do you have any other implements planned or in the works

[RM model Mack]

Thanks Kroll.

I would like to try a 4 or 6 bottom plow and perhaps a harrow like this one from bruder:

[NYHowie]

Appears to work quite well. Great job, awesome build.

[RM model Mack]

Thanks.

Making some adjustments and trying again soon with a better radio system and at a larger area (a baseball field).

Will post it up after.