Hydrostatic ATV

[Iplayfarmer]

It looks like I might have to go with a two pump configuration, for the hydraulic system. What is a typical set up, for running two pumps off one motor.

Depending on the motor you could run one pump off each end of the crank. If that doesn't work you could work out a serpentine type belt that runs both or run them both with a double pulley.

 

[deerhunter2929]

this is my first post so please try and bear with me
I think that this might bee what you are looking for it is made by howe and howe tech they are on the web so you can check them out.

 

[kdlklm]

this is my first post so please try and bear with me
I think that this might bee what you are looking for it is made by howe and howe tech they are on the web so you can check them out.
View attachment 208128

yes I have seen this machine, and it is very cool. The difference for me is, that I use a power wheelchair and can't transfer out of it. So I need to be able to back my chair into it and drive from there.

 

[kdlklm]

kdlklm,.. I was surfing along and came across this post, I knew right away, we had talked over on hyd/pnu , Ive never shared and ideas with you, But have enjoyed reading this post, If you remember, I have three friends in wheel chairs, so, Iam Very intrested in building a prototype, and seeing these guys try it out! Iam leaning twards a zero turn chassie, It offers excellent mobility, and reasonably cheap to build, But Iam also looking at the 4x4, articulated, model that you posted a pic of, IMO, I would build it using (1) hydrostatic pump,..With 4 wheel motors, If you use a wheel motor with a (case drain) , you can run multipul motors, in series, and your speed will not change, The oil goes threw 1 motor,. then to the next, and so on, Very simple, You might need a flow valve or two, but I know It works and works good, as I have a small road grader set up this way, Than I would piggy back a small hyd pump for steering and hyd lift/attachments, Theres a real sharp guy over on hyd/pnumatics, kevinj, He might be able to help with the Pump/motor specs, :thumbsup: I love these kind of projects, and will help what i can, Eric

right now, I am contemplating whether the track system is going to be a more affordable way to go. I need to find a track system that is close to 80 inches on the ground. Find out if the track system will offset the cost of having all the more hydraulics that the four-wheel-drive articulating machine would have. If you're able to help me find a track system that meets my needs, I'm willing to share whatever I come up with.

 

[Iplayfarmer]

right now, I am contemplating whether the track system is going to be a more affordable way to go. I need to find a track system that is close to 80 inches on the ground. Find out if the track system will offset the cost of having all the more hydraulics that the four-wheel-drive articulating machine would have. If you're able to help me find a track system that meets my needs, I'm willing to share whatever I come up with.

Go with the tracks! I think it will be simpler and just plain cool. A few TBN members have done small tracked vehicles. Most build their own tracks a link at a time. I think there must be some way to use old snowmobile tracks somehow and same some time and effort. I'd imagine that if a guy could get two old beater snowmobiles you could scavenge enough drive parts and track to build a tracked vehicle like you've described.

 

[kdlklm]

Go with the tracks! I think it will be simpler and just plain cool. A few TBN members have done small tracked vehicles. Most build their own tracks a link at a time. I think there must be some way to use old snowmobile tracks somehow and same some time and effort. I'd imagine that if a guy could get two old beater snowmobiles you could scavenge enough drive parts and track to build a tracked vehicle like you've described.

that is definitely an option, but I want the tracks to be very reliable. Because I don't want to be out by myself and have the track fall off. And then I'm screwed. Because I can't get out of the machine if I happen to be in fairly rough terrain. How often does a skid steer blow a track.

 

[Iplayfarmer]

that is definitely an option, but I want the tracks to be very reliable. Because I don't want to be out by myself and have the track fall off. And then I'm screwed. Because I can't get out of the machine if I happen to be in fairly rough terrain. How often does a skid steer blow a track.

The key in this situation is going to be regularly scheduled maintenance. The snowmobile track may not be the most durable. The best option will likely be a homemade track like what workinprogress made or like what David Devuono is making.

Homemade tracks will be a lot of work. It's a tough decision what will be a better balance of practicality, functionality, and durability.

 

[mwb]

right now, I am contemplating whether the track system is going to be a more affordable way to go. I need to find a track system that is close to 80 inches on the ground. Find out if the track system will offset the cost of having all the more hydraulics that the four-wheel-drive articulating machine would have. If you're able to help me find a track system that meets my needs, I'm willing to share whatever I come up with.

Rather than tracks, what about using a wheeled skid-steer like an Argo? You still have the option of adding tracks, and if they fall off you are not stuck.

If the length is going to be around 80 you could increase manoeuvrability by mounting the center two (of four on each side) lower to give less drag when turning; if your machine rocks forward or backward then the front or rear wheels will contact for stability (front and rears are almost off the ground when on a flat surface). You could also make all the wheels the same height and then add tracks around the center pair.

I guess you could just buy an old Argo, cut the dash and front end out and modify the controls to work from the sides. Might be an easy way to get started anyway.

 

[kdlklm]

I really like the track idea, but it comes down to what the track system is going to cost. I really don't want to build my own.

 

[Iplayfarmer]

I really like the track idea, but it comes down to what the track system is going to cost. I really don't want to build my own.

New tracks can get real pricey real fast.