Box Blade DIY Hydraulic Retractable Rippers

[walker450]

I have an old swather that is wore out. I cut the hyd mounts off and welding it onto my box blade to raise and lower the rippers. Working on it right now, will post more pics later and a video too.

 

[ovrszd]

Great project!!!

What currently locks your scarifier in the lowered position? You must retain that!!! Can't rely on the cylinder to hold them.

When taking your pics, pull back a little. Sometimes they are so close that it's hard to tell the point. We can always "zoom" closer if we need to.

Anxious to see your progress!!

 

[walker450]

Thanks for the tip!

I actually thought the cylinder would be sufficient to hold steady. I will weld stops so I can't go too far one way or another.

Will ponder on this.

 

[walker450]

 

[walker450]

It worked, time to take it apart and weld on the actual arm im using. Will also weld stops for max up and max down.

 

[ovrszd]

You will need a latch system to lock them in the lowered position. The cylinder and/or your linkage can't hold them.

 

[LS Tractor Owner]

That's cool! I thought you were going to have the whole assembly rotate.... the up/down idea is great!

 

[npalen]

I'm wondering why the cylinder wouldn't hold the rippers in position if the valve is in good condition. Might have to bump the lever occasionally if there is some creeping but seems that would be tolerable for a consumer grade application.
I do think that most factory made units do have a locking provision such as an over center mechanism, however.

 

[ericm979]

Gearmore has manual and hydraulic versions. The manual one that I have looks a lot like this one. The hydraulic version uses the same frame to hold the ripper teeth and the same pivot, like you're doing. But it's got a 1.5" hardened pin to hold the rippers in place when they're down. It's automatic somehow. I have a parts diagram but I can't make out how it works.

 

[lennyzx11]

I think the cylinder would hold them also. If the valve is centered, the hydraulic circuit is closed like a toplink, loader, or a swivel rear blade/rake positioning cylinder.

There could be some creep over time depending upon the seals in the cylinder or control valve but I wouldn’t expect a lot if any on a system in decent shape.
Great project! This is one on my back burner I want to do.