Pedal tractor pulling competitions are a fun and exciting way for kids and adults to showcase their strength and skills. However, to hold a pedal tractor pulling competition, you also need a sled that can provide sufficient resistance. If you're interested in building your own pedal tractor pulling sled, read on to find out the materials you'll need and the steps involved.
Materials Needed
To build your own pedal tractor pulling sled, you'll need the following materials:
- Steel plates (1/2\" to 3/4\" thick)
- Steel channel (4\" x 4\" minimum)
- Steel pipe (4\" diameter minimum)
- Steel flat bar (2\" x 4\" minimum)
- Grade 8 bolts (minimum 3/4\" diameter)
- Wood planks (2\" x 8\" minimum)
- Wood screws (minimum 2\" long)
- Sand
Construction Steps
1. Begin by welding the steel plates together to create the bottom of the sled. Make sure the plates are aligned properly and securely welded to each other. The size of the sled will depend on the number and size of steel plates you use.2. Weld the steel channel to the sides of the sled. The channel should be welded perpendicular to the steel plates and be at least 4\" deep to hold the weight of the sand.3. Cut the steel pipe to length and weld it to the front top of the sled. The pipe will serve as the hook where the tractor chain will be attached.4. Attach the wooden planks to the top of the sled. Screw the planks onto the steel plates, making sure they are flush with the top of the sled. The planks provide a smooth surface for the tractor wheels.5. Add sand to the sled to create the necessary resistance. The amount of sand you need will depend on the weight of your tractor and the distance you want to pull the sled. A good rule of thumb is to add one pound of sand for every pound of tractor weight.6. Finally, attach the chain to the sled hook and have your tractor driver start pedaling.
Tips and Precautions
As you build your pedal tractor pulling sled, keep the following tips in mind:- Use high-grade steel for the construction of your sled to ensure it can withstand the pressure and weight of the tractor.- Keep the sled as low to the ground as possible. This will make it more stable and keep the weight distribution even.- Test your sled before using it in a competition. Make sure it works properly and can provide enough resistance for a fair contest.- Always follow safety precautions when conducting a tractor pulling contest. Make sure the area is clear of spectators and use a barrier to separate the drivers from the audience.
Conclusion
Building a pedal tractor pulling sled is a great DIY project that can bring lots of fun and excitement to your backyard or community. With the right materials and construction steps, you can create a sled that is strong, durable and provides enough resistance for a fair competition. So why not give it a try and enjoy the thrill of pedal tractor pulling.
