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So, you want a BIG tractor, complete
with crane grab, winch, forwarding trailer, etc. etc. ??
Well, if you've only a small lot, 25 hectares
or less, then perhaps something smaller will meet your needs, and probably
be easier on your pocket too !
-
Needs to be 4x4 - whether that be a tractor, dumper,
quad or a modified road going 4x4 will be dictated by additional considerations.
Two wheeled drive machines have limited use.
-
Must have good treads - worn tractor/dumper tyres
(aka
slicks !) are of little use unless at Silverstone !
-
A winch is essential ! Either the vehicle needs
to be fitted with one or you need a portable device (e.g. Tirfor)
- the vehicle will get stuck at some point, vehicle recovery
without the right kit is time-consuming, tiresome, stressful & potentially
expensive !
-
Needs to be diesel, in which case it may be suitable
to be run on red-diesel (tax free, at little over a pound a gallon !),
but check with the engine manufacturer first. Also, unless it's classified
as an agricultural vehicle, or a mobile crane, it mustn't venture onto
the Queens highways !
-
Additional Kit
-
Winch - You'll need one of some form or other if
you're going to even think about timber harvesting (coppicing excepted)
Powered - Drum (i.e. cable is stored & winds
onto a drum)
-
Electric winch - if 12V vehicle mounted, only suitable
for occasional use. Despite their phenomenal cost they have an extremely
low design life as they are designed for vehicle recovery.
-
Direct drive - the classic forestry winch
-
Hydraulic - more flexible with regards to mounting
Trailer/Forwarder
-
Needs to be self powered (via. PTO from pulling vehicle)
otherwise it will soon bog down the pulling vehicle.
-
Conversion Machinery
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Sawbench - Circular or Band
-
Thickness/planer
-
Covered woodstore - but once you've all the above
you can easily make one can't you ?
See here
for a possible design - would need slatted sides.
Disclaimer
Whilst every care is taken in researching
and presenting the information contained within these pages,
I can accept no responsibility
whatsoever for any consequences resulting from its application and use.
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This page last updated on 3rd
April 2005
© Mike Munro