Sunday, March 4, 2012

What has this Tractor cost so Far?

If you're not aware, I'm currently building a Power Cube 4. This is an interchangeable power unit that can power a tractor, a brick maker, a lathe, and many other tools. Once I'm done with it, I'll start work on something for it to power. I'm leaning towards a micro-tractor right now.

How much have I spent on this endeavor so far? Has it been worth it? My records say I've spent about $1,365 and 25.5 hours on production so far. A John Deere riding lawnmower costs in this range, but isn't nearly as flexible or durable. As for my time spent, it's been great. I'm learning all sorts of useful skills and applying them.

I'm estimating another 16 hours of work and perhaps $200 more in parts. All told, I'm really happy with the process and experience.

6 comments:

  1. have you talked to the d&h tractor guys in california yet? i bet they'd love to talk to you about the process and costs and stuff. http://dandhtractors.org/

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  2. I like that you're tracking the time and expenses of this project. Very practical!

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  3. Hi Andrew, I am going to Factor E Farm this summer to learn metal fab.. Marcin asked me to design a microtrac to be built during my visit since I want to use one in our market garden in Dallas. I'd like to share my drawings so far and hear some feedback and ideas. I'm glad to hear you're doing research and building a power cube! -Graham

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    1. Hi Graham. That would be excellent. Would you email me at aispina {at} gmail <> Com? We could do a skype, or phone call. I've got some designs of my own-- I'll post them as soon as I have a chance.

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    2. Hey Graham. I just posted my most developed MicroTrac ideas. I hope you find some of them useful.

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