Indicator Rods

 

The indictor rods are one of my goofy inventions, but are very helpful when grooming.  They're on each implement that is controlled by an actuator:

  • Spring Loaded Teeth on the Bed

  • Front Mount

  • Track Setter

The indicator rods have different colors of tape on them and are attached to each implement.  As the actuator moves the implement, the indicator rod move up and down thru a small metal loop that can be seen from the seat.  Once the implement is in the correct position, I make a mental note of the color of tape at the metal loop.

 

When an implement is raised for a hill or road crossing, it can quickly and accurately be returned to it's original position as indicated by the colored tape on the indicator rod.  The red arrows point to the metal loop around the indicator rod.

 

View from Grizzly

View from Back

 

Spring Loaded Teeth on the Bed

 

The tracks on the Grizzly stir-up more snow dust then the Skandic did, covering the Indicator Rod in snow.  So I'm trying something new for the Indicator Rod on the teeth - a plastic tube with a black line that the Indicator Rod goes thru.

 

The top and bottom of the tube are sealed with foam weather stripping to keep snow out and to clean off the indicator rod.  The tube may still get covered in snow dust, but hopefully it will be easier to see the indicator rod, and it will be easier to wipe the snow off the plastic tube.

 

Teeth Indicator with Plastic Tube

Teeth "Up"

Teeth "On the Snow"

Teeth "Down"

 

Front Mount & Track Setter

  • In the "No Down Force" pictures, the white fiberglass rods are straight so there's no down force applied to the implement.

  • In the "Down Force" pictures, the white fiberglass rods are flexed, applying down force on the implement.

  • The red arrows point to the metal loop around the indicator rods.

Front Mount Indicator

Track Setter Indicator

No Down Force

Down Force

No Down Force

Down Force

Back