Tractor Wheels

[Smokin Silkies]

Can't seem to find anything about their tractors on Joel Salatin's website. Was hoping to also get some ideas on how to put the wheels on a tractor and have them work properly

 

[scubaforlife]

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He has is own sawmill and builds for functionality. Each person has their own resources. I am hoping to not lose too much this year, and get ahead in 2.

 

[j.luetkemeyer]

I have seen people use the lids from 55 gal drums as wheels. Thought it was a pretty good idea so I might try it myself this year.

 

[Smokin Silkies]

Thats an idea! I was just going to use old lawn mower wheels but I just don't know how to put them on the tractor without having a gap under the pen, you know? The wheels and the bottom can't be flush or it will drag when you move it won't it? I've looked at several pics but don't know how they are 'installing' them?

 

[littlestars17]

newbie but wanted to post I have seen tractors where the wheel slides on and off of a bolt when tractor needs to be moved

 

[Smokin Silkies]

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I could also try to do it that way....as long as it just slides on and off and I don't have to be screwing things in every time I have to move it....lol Thanks!

 

[Chicken411]

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Try this

 

[Buster52]

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And I'm sure you've seen what his tractors look like too-not the prettiest. Looks like they use ALL the scrap lumber on that farm!

He mills his own. For wheels, he uses a custom made dolly that he slips under the back. Same set of wheels for every tractor.

Friend of mine just finished his one year Polyface apprenticeship (yeah, he raises meaties

)last October and is building his Salatin style pens now. I dropped by to visit and pick up my milk (he's my dairy, beef, and pork guy) and saw his three tractors in various stages of construction.

A forehead-slapping "D'oh!" moment, to say the least. I've been trying way too hard, using way too much lumber, and not making them nearly efficiently enough.

 

[Buster52]

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I extended two bottom 2 by 2s about 4 inches past the back, attached short 2x2s on top of those to extend out past those, and put casters on them large enough to touch the ground when the tractor is laying flat. When I lift it a couple inches on the other end to move it, only the wheels are making contact.

I will try to remember to take pics tomorrow.

 

[Smokin Silkies]

Thanks Buster! Pictures would be great