The tractor does both pivot and rotate. I took a piece of 6" beam and cut one leg off it to creat a side ways T. Used the part cut off as bracing to keep the joint from flexing. Put one bearing hub on the verticle part for the rotation and another on the flat part to let the tractor pivot.
The joint is welded to the botton of the frame which lowers the center of gravity a little and also keeps the inside of the frame clear to run hydraulic hoses and what ever else needs to go through there. Had to trim the frame a little to clear the tires if it rotated while in a turn.
Came up with the design after a lot of sitting, looking, and thinking with my neighbor, Mike. Mike is a great guy to think with.
Used old bearing hubs from a garage that had changed them out of a car and was going to scrap them.
Might be some issues that arise as the tractor is put into service blowing snow, but those will be adressed at that time.
Any thoughts about how to take the warm air from infront of the motor and channel it back inside the cab for heat? I understand one has to be careful about exhaust fumes, but any idea how to get the warm air re-routed? I have not built the cab yet so now is a good time to consider creature conforts.
People on this forum have been great with ideas, suggestions and explaining hydraulics to me. I'm sure I will be asking for advice again on the next project. Now back to building the submarine............:thanku: