3240 project
 

I'm working on a 3240 and is it a mess. Rust, Rust, RUST!!! I decided to disassemble it and found that the frame really hasn't rusted. The cub really is in good shape except for the rust. I found a fender on craigslist and purchased it. Now if I can find the other sheet metal parts I'll be in good shape.

I live life having to use a wheelchair because my feet are paralyzed. The 3240 is foot controlled. If I can figure out a way to convert it to hand controls I'll probably keep it. Looking a the linkages going to the pump, they're really not that much different than the linkage on an 1811 or an 1863. As a mater of fact the foot pedals can easily be disconnected and some sort of hand control put in its place. Has anyone ever seen this done? I bought this 3240 new in 2001 and it has been sitting for the last 3 years since my back blew out. I decided to fix it up to sell but am having second thoughts if a conversion can be made. Whatever I do, I want to do it right.

If you look at the first photo at the bottom, you can see the linkage that goes to the pump. At the bottom right corner of the photo you can see where the foot controls attach to the linkage.

Help me brain storm!

Thanks!

I'm assuming the pedals work like most other two pedal systems in that they are tied together and both move when you press one. I think the easiest way would be to bolt a handle to the forward pedal and curve it up and back to where it's comfortable to reach like a loader joystick. You would then have to remove the pedal centering springs and add some sort of friction to the system so it would stay where you push it. That could be as simple as removing a pin connection and using a bolt and nylock nut. I dunno, I'm not familiar with that machine, just throwing some things out there.

Bill

Just my 2 cents but maybe you would be better of trading that for an older tractor with the hand controlled hydro that is of equal condition and value. Why re-invent the wheel so to speak.

I agree with Sam. And, I have an inquiring mind. IE., I could make it better! :biggrin2: But sometimes it's just better to buy, what already works.

Well, I actually have a 1811, 1541, and will have a 1863 that my father has very soon. I'm also going to look at a 127 to possibly buy for another project as well. I'm a cub cadet guy! :biggrin2:

What you are suggesting is what I have been thinking as well. I'm looking at all options and trying to stimulate some wisdom from the many pros and hobbyist from this group.

I'm not afraid of a challenge. :BB&YS: Tell me I can't do something, well give me enough time I'll figure it out! Might take a lifetime, but I'll figure it out! :bigthink:

This is a GREAT group!

Thank You!

If I was going to convert it to a hand control I'd go with a lever and a push pull cable setup. This may give you some ideas.

https://www.cccables.com/Controls/HeavyDutyLevers.aspx
https://www.cccables.com/Cables/PushPull/4SeriesPP.aspx

You just gave me an idea! :bigthink: It involves something greene though. I've always hated the single loader control stick. I wish it had 2 levers like the old stuff did. It just might now. Thanks, Sam! :beerchug:

OP, I think this would be an easy way to do it.

I like the push pull cable Sam. It would be sweet if you had a seat with arm rests and mounted the handle on the fender at your fingertips. :beerchug:

McMaster also has cables and levers. I don't know how the prices compare to Sam's links, but you'll have it in a day or two.
http://www.mcmaster.com/#push/pull-c...-cable/=vtcbyx

Bill

Hmmm, very interesting concept here and it's very doable. The push pull cable solves a lot of issues I was considering! :beerchug:

I was also thinking about using a hydraulic cylinder but the cable idea is much better!

This is what I was talking about when a group of people with common interests can come up with great ideas to solve various problems. :biggrin2:

I'll move forward with the cable idea!

Thank you so much!!! I'm feeling excited!