[Andursun0013]

I'm guessing there is an easy answer to my question, but I just don't know the answer. I want a set of wheels for my landscape rake like the picture below, but like a lot of other folks I don't want to pay $2-300 for the wheels. I can make these, I'm confident in that, but what I don't know is how to select the right piece of "pipe" that will allow the shaft on the wheel to fit. For example, if I got 3/4" round bar for the wheels what is the best way to select material for the bushings to adjust the height and the small piece attached to the square tubing? Do I just get 3/4" black pipe and maybe run a drill bit through the pieces after I cut them down? I have the same question honestly about finding square tubing that "nests" together like a trailer hitch/receiver combo. The metal supplier I doesn't show ID dimensions of anything and its not really setup for me to walk around to test fit pieces.

Any advice?

 

[Andursun0013]

McMaster carr will have dimensions for you, reasonable prices and lightning fast shipping. If I ordered now I’d probably have it tomorrow

Thanks - I sometimes get locked in on things and over complicate them. McMaster will have all the information I need probably.

 

[Andursun0013]

I wouldn't use pipe! The only thing 3/4" on 3/4 pipe is the name! OD is 1.050" and ID varies from .884" to .614" depending on Schedule! Use steel tubing instead... the numbers are the OD. That too comes in different thicknesses, but McM will have sizes. Bob

Pipe is cheap, I will certainly make my spacers out of that. I'll probably try to find some steel tube to attach the wheel to the arms. I've not decided really anything other than I just want a set of wheels and I'm working through what that will take. I can always count on good points from this group, thanks.

 

[Andursun0013]

Trailer jacks are ~$20 each. 10" balloon caster tires from harbor freight I think were under $10 each. Some 2x2 square tube and 2 1/2 x 2 1/2 x 1/4" wall square tube. Good to go. Nice thing about the jacks is they are infinitely adjustable in height.

Great idea there! That also happens to be the same rake I have I think, King Kutter XB? Do you ever find the trailer jacks height adjustment "drift" during use? I have a set of fixed 8" tires I was trying to use, an extra set from a movers dolly, but this might just sway me to do otherwise.

I also appreciate your simplistic kickstand idea. I've been using a 5 gallon bucket upside down. It also works well and the rake clears it when lifted all the way up. Its fine as long as you always set it down in the same place.

I made my rake QH compatible first (some 1/4" plate), wheels are next on the list.