ATV Log Arch/Skidder

bamboozled · Oct 25, 2013

My brother gave me a picture and asked me to build something similar. This is what I came up with, I tried to make it a little more aesthetically appealing that his picture with the mitered corners. I tig'd the frame but got impatient and mig'd the gussets, axles, etc. Turned out pretty good, I told him to put it to work and find the weaknesses and may build a few more depending on what design changes are needed. I think the 'fenders' may end up bent or broken depending on how hard they are hit but we'll have to see what happens.

fosterchild420 · Oct 25, 2013

Looks good. I have been thinking of building one of these for a while. I just wonder if the length of the tongue will be too much. I could be entirely wrong though.

andrehoude123 · Oct 25, 2013

Very nice I would need one of those to

kg7il · Oct 25, 2013

On this particular design, what is the method for raising the log?

Does a choker/tongs ride up the top rail?
Unhitch, attach and lever it back onto the hitch?
other method?

Looks like it's the start of something good!

bamboozled · Oct 25, 2013

Right now he said he is just going to use a chain to ride up the top rail. I suggested some log tongs but he didn't want to spend the money on them and they had to go on before the top bar was welded so now it's up to him to figure it out.

You could probably also just choke the log and lever it back onto the hitch as well.

Personally I would have added the tongs or a ring to shackle the choker chain to, but I just built it like he wanted for now. Once he uses it and I see it used, I'll improve the design and maybe see if I can sell a few.

kg7il · Oct 25, 2013

I like this model. The points are replaceable if needed.
Northern tool has it for $49 The grab hook works great on chain.

Might be too long for your dimensions.

Timber Tuff Swiveling Skidding Tongs 20in. Jaw Opening, Model# TMW-02SS
Timber Tuff Swiveling Skidding Tongs — 20in. Jaw Opening, Model# TMW-02SS | Log Skidding| Northern Tool + Equipment

rmorey · Oct 25, 2013

A number of years ago, I bought a log arch that looks amazingly like your creation. It had a ring around the centre shaft that had a hook attached. You wrap a chain around the log and attach to the hook on the arch. When the arch moves forward, the ring slides up the centre shaft and lifts the front of the log. I think the ring was made of 3/8" steel. The thing worked great! :thumbsup: