Dual wheel hill mower project advice.

[Torino 15]

I want to make a hill mower out of a GT. I have a bank that I am getting tire of weed eating. I was wondering how much traction and stability it would give me it I added dual wheels and weights on the up hill wheel. I plan to go down the steepest part but there is a fence at the bottom so I have to turn and go along the hill. It seems with the dual wheels it would give me a much larger wheel base. Do dual really help with traction?

[TT-(Moderator) 1,162]

I'm sure I'm going to get all kinds of rocks thrown at me for this , but dual wheels are - and never were - intended to increase traction. Duals are for increased flotation and stability, with a reduction in ground pressure to keep from over-compacting the soil. (Naturally -- there are exceptions. )

If you choose to fill all 4 tires with liquid and add wheel weights, etc., you will have increased traction over a non-weighted tractor. Your idea of weights on the uphill side is good too. :thumbs:

[kj4kicks 154]

First of all...

You've got the right idea. The extra wheel should be on the downhill side, though. That will help keep the tractor from rolling over to that side. Some extra weight on the uphill side is a good idea.

[kpinnc 14,652]

Not to open another can of worms here, but you'll also want to use an engine with full pressure lubrication as well. Especially if you'll be using it on slopes steep enough to require dual wheels for stability.

An older "splash" type lubricating engine needs to be operated mostly, if not exclusively on somewhat level ground. Working on slopes for extended periods will starve the engine of oil when it all pools in one side of the sump pan.

Sorry, just my $.02...

Kevin

[Torino 15]

Wh1056 and Kpinrc no can of worms that is the kind of info I need. I know nothing about dual wheels. What about three wheels down one up with weight?

[catman81056 3]

Kevin brings up a very good point. I just had a fella looking for an engine for his brotherss JD. It chucked a rod. He asked his brother if he had been mowing the ditch bank with it and he was. Second time its happened, his brother thought if he went alittle faster the motor wouldn't be hurt.