Low-Cost "Tree Shearer" For ATV's, Skid Loaders

Low-Cost "Tree Shearer" For ATV's, Skid Loaders ATV'S ATV'S 30-4-11 This new ATV-mounted tree shearer slices through trees up to 3 in. in diameter, yet requires no outside power source. The unit will work on any 400cc or larger 4-WD ATV. "It's built simple and is almost maintenance-free," says inventor Dale Kohlmeyer of Washington, Kansas. The tree shearer consists of a cutting assembly and mounting bracket that attaches with two quick release pins to a "push tube" (not supplied) that mounts permanently on the ATV frame. The mounting bracket can also be bolted to a snow blade mounting frame that bolts onto the push tube. The cutting assembly consists of two 14-in. dia., overlapping earth metal blades that are smooth with one beveled edge. Each blade rotates on a 5/8-in. dia. bolt that attaches to a bearing that's welded to the blade hub. The unit, which weighs about 50 lbs., is raised and lowered by attaching a lifting device (not supplied) whether it's manual lift, cable winch, or electrical lift. To cut the tree, you lower the shearer to ground level and slowly drive forward, centering the tree between the two discs. "The overlapping blades cut through the tree much the same as a scissors cuts through paper," says Kohlmeyer. "It cuts the tree at ground level without leaving a stump. I made it to cut down cedar trees, but it'll also handle hardwood trees such as locusts. However, with hardwoods the tree diameter can't be more than 1 1/2 in. A stop on back of the unit keeps the blades from getting stuck in larger trees. Once the tree has been cut, it may be necessary to lower the cutting assembly while backing up, which will allow the blades to rotate in reverse and self-clean themselves from grass and small trees. " Kohlmeyer recommends cutting with the ATV in 2-WD. That way, if you try to cut a tree that's too big the wheels can slip which will reduce stress on the cutting assembly. He also recommends using an ATV with at least 350 cc to have enough ground clearance. Four wheel drive is needed in order to provide more traction when backing up, especially on hillsides. "The forward motion of the ATV and its weight does the cutting, so it's best to go about 1 to 2 mph while cutting," he says. There has to be constant pressure between the two blades in order for the unit to work properly, he says. The pressure is increased or decreased by changing the size of shim washers between the blade bolt and the mounting frame. The cutting assembly sells for about $350. "When you add the cost of a push tube and lift mechanism, your total cost will be somewhere in the $700 to $800 area," says Kohlmeyer. "I make my living farming and sell only to dealers located in Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri. I don't sell direct to farmers or ranchers." Quick-tach models for skid steer loaders are also available. "The skid loader model has a beefed-up top plate with a heavy double roll bearing, to handle the extra downpressure of a skid loader," notes Kohlmeyer. The skid loader model sells for $750 to $850. Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Dale D. Kohlmeyer, Double D Klippers, LLC, 1591 Rainbow Rd., Washington, Kansas 66968 (ph 785 325-2636; elad@carrollsweb.com).

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