Posted by JimmieD on Thursday, October 07, 2004 at 5:19PM :
In Reply to: Snowplow posted by Northern Calif Dave on Thursday, October 07, 2004 at 4:37PM :
Hey, Dave!
I don't have the specific answers but:
I doubt you will need a 160 amp alternator, because most motors powering hydrulic pumps don't pull all the much amps? 40 to 50 amps maybe? Regardless, you could run a 2nd cheapo 1-wire GM alternator just for the pump, and use a heavy-duty extra battery.
I stronlgy suggest a power up/power down design, as fixed units stink for serious snow removal. Right-left rams are awful nice, too; but R/L adjustment with moveable bracket & clevis pins will do for occassional.
The back bracing does not have to be all that wild, as the frame takes most of the hit, but you can run a sort of T-bar frame, with the main leg running into frame, and then a short upright piece welded and gusseted on as a fulcrum point.
Have you considered using a PTO driven pump? It is far more efficient that electric and has dozens of other uses in other seasons: wood splitter, buzz saw, PTO winch, boom crane, water pump, electric generator, auxiliary fire pump, post hole digger, etc. Plus it cannot run down your battery, especialy when you might need it in a potentially life-threatening winter storm!
I'm in NorCal also if I can be of any assistance shagging parts and such. I'll keep the eyes peeled for hydraulics and pto...
JimmieD
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