RE: (ET) zero radius mower

["Elie, Larry (L.D.)" <lelie ford com>]

Bruce,

I think you may be just ahead of your time.  I suspect some of the 
'big-guys' are looking into zero-radius electrics.  Yes, I too heard 
that Bill made one; I would love to see a picture of it.

Some possible projects-- this one may lend itself to finding a zero- 
radius mower in need of a motor, and converting it to electric.  
A motor and controller could replace the main motor, probably with 
two (so you can dump the hydrostat and use electric controls) and you 
have to find a place for the batteries.  Most zero-radius mowers are 
front mount, either you use that mower and an electric drive or use 
an ET electric deck.  I think I would vote for the former, because of 
the greater width.  If you stay with 36V (and I think that's a GOOD 
idea) the GE mounts front and back would be very easy to duplicate.  
Than you can keep all the attachments.  You could call it a BC :)
instead of a GE.

Good luck.

Larry Elie


-----Original Message-----
From: Bruce Conner [mailto:bconner mediaone net]
Sent: Thursday, October 26, 2000 8:46 PM
To: elec-trak cosmos5 phy tufts edu
Subject: (ET) zero radius mower


My sainted mother always said I had too active a brain, and this may
prove her point.  

I'd like to toss out a project to the group. . . a zero radius mower. 
Yes, I looked in the archive, and there was mention of Bill Gunn having
made one, but nothing further seems to be known of it!  I don't care if
the mower is commercially viable because my intent is to build one for
my own use, if and when I find the time.  The other purpose is to keep
my mind limber though use! :')  It's a long winter ahead.

If this topic doesn't fall under the umbrella of the elec-trak list,
just say the word and I'll drop it here and take it over to someplace
like the EV list.

Here are my ground rules:

1. Scrounged/used parts are good.  I'm currently looking for used golf
cart and forklift stuff.  Elec-trak parts are OK too, but I hate to part
them out for a non-restoration project.

2. 36 volts is OK by me.  If you have a good reason to suggest more,
just back up your claim.  Making it cheaper is always a good argument!

3. Zero radius turning.  Arrange it however you like.  I'm hoping for
some inspiration on this part.  I figure dual motors, but you tell me.
Heck, I don't care if your design a quadrapedal walking machine as long
as it turns on a dime.

4. Front or mid mower deck?  Seems like zero radius cries out for mid
mount, but a front mount is easier to tip up and clean off between
mowings.  Perhaps a novel method of getting at the mid mount??

5. Able to mow at least 1 acre of grass on a charge. No need to bag the
clippings.

6. Make the speed controls as simple as possible. <=6mph is fine for
mowing. I'm not overly concerned with the charging system either.  Keep
it simple if possible. The GE charger ain't perfect, but it gets the job
done.

I'm driving an E12M right now, so I want something that has about the
same capabilities for mowing.  Extra goodies like hooking on my plow and
rototiller would be nice, but not required.

There it is guys, fire away!

Bruce Conner