Videos of New PT425 Arriving/Unloading

   / Videos of New PT425 Arriving/Unloading
  • Thread Starter
#21  
Thanks for taking the time for inputing this very interesting stuff. The Lo-trac is a really neat machine. How does it steer? Joystick? Also, what are the large black things in the wheel hubs? I am guessing part of the breaking system. You can see the evolution of the PTs.
 
   / Videos of New PT425 Arriving/Unloading #22  
Thanks for taking the time for inputing this very interesting stuff. The Lo-trac is a really neat machine. How does it steer? Joystick? Also, what are the large black things in the wheel hubs? I am guessing part of the breaking system. You can see the evolution of the PTs.

I think those black hubs inside the wheels are just the ridiculously beefy wheel motors. The thing weighs 13,600# and can lift 13,800# for crying out loud! :laughing:
 
   / Videos of New PT425 Arriving/Unloading #23  
Those hyd wheel motors are designed to fit inside the width of the tire/rim, to reduce the overall width of the machine.

The tire cutout is there for a similar reason, to reduce the overall width.
 
   / Videos of New PT425 Arriving/Unloading #24  
I never use the left pedal on my 422. Had mine since 2004 and I just press down with my right big toe to go forward and then lift up to go backward. Don't know why I started doing it that way, but I feel I have more control. Mabye because I don't drive a stick shift and always used one foot when driving a car. Good luck all and happy plowing.
 
   / Videos of New PT425 Arriving/Unloading #25  
Anyone every think how easy it would be to adapt a PT for use by someone that has no use of their legs, or one arm?

Seems it would be very easy to put a joystick to control both speed AND direction. Heck, you could put in some electric solenoid valves and have the same joystick control the FEL, too.
 
   / Videos of New PT425 Arriving/Unloading
  • Thread Starter
#27  
Check out the Ventracs. They use two joysticks that move together in forward and reverse to control direction and speed. Moving each individually left or right control aux functions. I really liked the Ventracs. However, their FEL capabilities is insufficient. A Ventrac with the attachments I bought with the PT425 would have cost over $40K... They also make wheel chair Scooter that uses handlebars to steer. These concepts could be used to develop a utility tractor that is easier to use for the impaired. An easier to use tractor would be great for all of us as well.

Ventrac - Advantages: Comfort & Controls

Ventrac Freedom Model 300
 
   / Videos of New PT425 Arriving/Unloading #28  
If you look at page four you will see that these site prep tractors have joystick controls. So yes it can be done, but at what cost?
http://www.prenticeforestry.com/uploads/specs/2664-2764-2864-Site-Prep-Tractors.pdf

Replacing the steering valve and treadle valve with a two spool valve similar to what's under the current FEL joystick would probably not add any cost to the unit. Since the unit steers with rams, the steering could be a bit jerky using a directional valve VS a steering valve, but it would be pretty functional.
 
   / Videos of New PT425 Arriving/Unloading #29  
Well Clumber how did you make out in the storm we had on the east coast? I am curious because I know a lot of your concerns with your PT purchase was snow removal. If you had snow anything like us, what a test.
 
   / Videos of New PT425 Arriving/Unloading
  • Thread Starter
#30  
Well Clumber how did you make out in the storm we had on the east coast? I am curious because I know a lot of your concerns with your PT purchase was snow removal. If you had snow anything like us, what a test.

The storm missed us. We only had a lite dusting. Have not had an opportunity to test out snow removal capabilities.

I am impressed with the PT 425's starting ability in cold weather. The tractor will start on 1 or two cranks with a full choke and throttle at 75%. Morning temps are averaging around 25%. The PT is kept in an unheated garage.

The front right tire keeps loosing pressure. When that tire is low the quick attach will not work because the tractor and the QA plate is lower on the right side preventing a flush mating which prevents the locking mechanism from sliding into the slot. I will try using a sealant in the tire.

more later.

Patrick
 

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