Steel Cut for Grader/Planer

[Oasis]

Nice project!
Thanks for posting and the drawing... :thumbsup:

Ive been thinking about this thred and the one by jenkinsph http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/build-yourself/166570-3pt-harrow-landplane-diy.html

Ill offer one simple idea for making the angle adjustable without adding much cost or effort (See adjustable version image)

Prior to adding the skid plates cut 4 triangles (on each side plate) that are a bit bigger than the angle-iron cross-section.

Then after the frame is welded together the angle pieces can be inserted through the side plates either straight across or at an inboard or outboard angle.

The angle needs to be long enough to protrude an inch or two out the sides. Holes at each end of the angle would allow pins to hold the angle in place.

Im guessing the frame would be plenty strong without needing to weld the angle in place. If not some brace/gusset could be added to the frame.

I think some extra work to make it adjustable for crowning... would be worthwhile. So if folks could offer other ideas Id also like to here them.

Oasis

 

[Gordon Gould]

Got the welding done today. I brought it to a shop and we worked on it together - I was the gopher. I thought he did a super job for me. When we loaded it on my truck we found the balance point was exactly on the
middle cross member. I told him a figured it that way but it was just s_ luck.
However it will make life easier.
The frost is still coming out of the road so it is still to soft to grade but I
feel like a kid a christmas wanting to try my new toy. I did try it on a short section near the door yard. I think it will be good.
I have to add a stop for the tail gate so if I flip it to hang on the inside of the stop it will be like a box blade of sorts. If I flip it to hang behind the stop it will just be a drag. Might be a place for a cylinder if it works good.
What can anybody tell me about practical degreasing and painting.
I was thinking of a high pressure car wash and spray Rustoleum.
Here are some pics.

 

[Gordon Gould]

For those interested here is the cost breakdown so far.

3/8" X 12" steel plate 20' $210
3/8" X 2" steel bar 10' $25
2 1/2" X 1/4" Square tube 24' $115
4" X 4" X 3/8" angle 10' $69
1 1/2" schedule 80 blk iron pipe 10' $46
Total Steel $465

4 Five packs Sawz_All blades @ $16 $64
1 Jug cutting oil $10

4 Hrs Welding @ $60/Hr $240
--------
Total $779

Scrap: (not really)
3/8" X 12" plate 5'
1 1/2" sched 80 blk pipe 5'
2 1/2" X 1/4" Sq Tube 6' 6"

note: would have saved $100 if I left the tail gate off.

Dont tell my wife !!!!

 

[MtnViewRanch]

I would primer the unit before I painted it. If you want the paint to stay on a little longer and look a little better, then priming it is one of the things to do. Some hardener will help as well. As we all know, prep work is the key to having things finish out right. After all the work that you have done to build your grader blade, getting a good paint job on it will be the finishing touch.

Nice job :thumbsup:

 

[jenkinsph]

Gordon,
Looks very good, good welding too.

I would block it up and clean it with mineral spirits and a clean rag prior to painting with a good primer then topcoat it in your favorite color.:thumbsup:

Are you going to put grader blades on before painting?

 

[Gordon Gould]

I was going to put the blades on after I painted it.
Would it be better to put them on first?
I thought having the angles painted under the blades might be better.

 

[MtnViewRanch]

I was going to put the blades on after I painted it.
Would it be better to put them on first?
I thought having the angles painted under the blades might be better.

I would drill the holes for the cutting edges, then paint. It's nice to have some paint in the holes. Are you painting dark grey or orange, or both?

 

[jenkinsph]

I would drill the mounting holes using the grader blades as a guide. I clamped my grader blades to the mounting and drilled the holes with a holesaw. Clean and then paint the unit. Mount the blades last.

 

[Gordon Gould]

good idea - thanks

 

[workmytractor]

Your Grader is turning out REALLY nice. I think a nice top coat of Orange Paint would look nice :thumbsup: