Convert to Hydraulic drive?

[Mechman]

I'm looking for advice. I'm planning on converting my old John Deer garden tractor to a mini dozer with plans I purchased from Ubuilditplans Inc. They have it set to drive the lower track system from the existing trans-axle of the tractor whether it be mechanical gear or hydrostatic. My tractor has mechanical, but I'd like to switch it to use two hydraulic motors with sprockets driving the track so I can also use the hydraulics to run the front blade and also set it up to use a bucket.

The garden tractor originally had a 8 hp running a 48 in mower, not the best. I put a 13 hp to replace it.

I may have not have included enough info, but any suggestions or ideas?

Thanks,

Mechman

 

[Dr Dave]

The Surplus Center has hydrostatic drives, that would work, and everything else needed, for the hydralics. See the add on TBN home page.

Dave

 

[J_J]

You probably need to go to a much bigger engine.

Your motor has to power a hyd pump which will power a hyd motor. and there will be some loss between the pump and hyd motor.

To pump 10 GPM at 3000 psi, will require about a 21 HP engine.

If the hyd motors you select run at 1800 psi, then your 13 HP engine can power them.

You need to know the rpm the hyd motors need to run.

Speed of the hyd motors is dictated by the GPM and displacement.

Torque from the hyd motors is determined by the cu in of the hyd motor and pressure.

Do you need one motor or two.

If you use two motors you can have independent drive for each side.

If you use one hyd motor, you can use brakes each side to turn.

You could also use zero turn pumps and motors to make a system.

Surplus Center

This setup using about a 26 X 12 X 12, tire will produce a ground speed of about 6 to 10 MPH

Surplus Center - ZTR LEFT/RIGHT TRANSAXLE ASSEMBLY

 

[CliffordK]

That is an ambitious project.

According to the website, even the smaller engine lawn tractors make suitable donors, but I'd probably stick with a bit heavier duty ones.

You'll get slammed with retail costs unless you find a suitable donor.
Craftsman Riding Lawn Mower (Small Tractor)
john deere hydro - $500
TROY BILT 18HP HYDRO
Used Deutz-Allis Model 1918 Ultima Garden Tractor


If you were a little closer, I might be able to be convinced to donate a Kubota G4200 (or possibly G5200) for the project. Small diesel Hydrostatic lawn tractor. Smokes a bit under load. I may be heading towards KS City late this summer.

 

[Mechman]

Thanks you guys! I'm going to stick with my John Deer and I might just end up using the transmission and rear end on it and use breaks to turn. I still haven't decided, but J-J shared just the kind of info I needed to know and Clifford thanks for the possible offer as well! If I do convert it I'd use two motors one for each side. I'd just have to size them right. When I get started I'll have to post pictures.

Thanks again guys!