Yet another tug video- RV-6A

[RVDan]

Edit- updated with links to files.

Aging and an injury started to make it harder for either my partner or I to move the airplane into the hangar and we decided to look into tugs. Commercially available tugs were just a bit more money than we were up for spending, and I decided to look at making my own.

After watching Youtube videos of what other people did, I found someone who would share what major parts they used. I was concerned that If I chose a motor, gearbox, controller and wheel, it either wouldn't have enough torque or wouldn't be controllable. Having someone provide some insight into the key parts was very helpful. Also, I have gained access to a TIG machine and wanted to refresh my welding skills.

The tug is designed specifically for the rV-6A. I tried it on the RV-9A and it will work with different lugs to pick up the tow bar points. A fairly minor change. It will probably work on a -7A but I haven't looked at a -7A to know for sure.

Besides the basic requirement for it to help me move the airplane, I also wanted to minimize the space the tug took up in the hangar. The result was a unit that was more compact than most and that stores under the airplane wing.

I am open sourcing the information and will make details available to anyone building their own. Depending on how many folks ask I may just email the info to them, or I may make another "how to" video and link the files there.

The tug is quite easy to handle both while maneuvering it for hook up and while towing. It has plenty of power, and at top speed moves at a good fast walking pace. It isn't going to win any races, but that is not what it is for. In some cases, tire traction needs to be increased by applying some weight to the tug handlebar. Maybe 10-20 lbs. tops. The tug itself is fairly light- I can pick it up to my workbench, but heavy enough to get the job done.

https://youtu.be/qyoJmfmVC4g The link to google drive folder for the parts list and drawings is there, and I am putting it here- https://drive.google.com/drive/folde...HV?usp=sharing

I had a significant number of requests for the info, and I have decided to do a tug build video in a couple of weeks.

[Desert Rat]

just watched the video, thanks for sharing that- very cool!

[Agent86]

I would like the part list and supplier if you are sharing. I looked at modifying an electric pallet jack but it became too cumbersome so this looks good to me.

[peetiethepilot]

Hi Dan
Very good video of your tug. I am interested in making one for myself so any info you can provide would be welcome. Bill of materials would be a big help.
Blue Skies
Peter

[Low Pass]

Originally Posted by Agent86

I would like the part list and supplier if you are sharing. I looked at modifying an electric pallet jack but it became too cumbersome so this looks good to me.

Same. Very nice job!

[cccjbr6]

Originally Posted by Agent86

I would like the part list and supplier if you are sharing. I looked at modifying an electric pallet jack but it became too cumbersome so this looks good to me.

My back tells me I will need one of these soon. I, too, would appreciate the information.

[PCHunt]

Dan, looks to me like you have just started your own small business!!

[drill_and_buck]

Well done Dan! Love the price point and functionality.

Any thoughts on how you would make a similar tug for a tailwheel airplane?

[mfcummings]

Originally Posted by RVDan

Edit- updated with links to files.

Aging and an injury started to make it harder for either my partner or I to move the airplane into the hangar and we decided to look into tugs. Commercially available tugs were just a bit more money than we were up for spending, and I decided to look at making my own.

After watching Youtube videos of what other people did, I found someone who would share what major parts they used. I was concerned that If I chose a motor, gearbox, controller and wheel, it either wouldn't have enough torque or wouldn't be controllable. Having someone provide some insight into the key parts was very helpful. Also, I have gained access to a TIG machine and wanted to refresh my welding skills.

The tug is designed specifically for the rV-6A. I tried it on the RV-9A and it will work with different lugs to pick up the tow bar points. A fairly minor change. It will probably work on a -7A but I haven't looked at a -7A to know for sure.

Besides the basic requirement for it to help me move the airplane, I also wanted to minimize the space the tug took up in the hangar. The result was a unit that was more compact than most and that stores under the airplane wing.

I am open sourcing the information and will make details available to anyone building their own. Depending on how many folks ask I may just email the info to them, or I may make another "how to" video and link the files there.

The tug is quite easy to handle both while maneuvering it for hook up and while towing. It has plenty of power, and at top speed moves at a good fast walking pace. It isn't going to win any races, but that is not what it is for. In some cases, tire traction needs to be increased by applying some weight to the tug handlebar. Maybe 10-20 lbs. tops. The tug itself is fairly light- I can pick it up to my workbench, but heavy enough to get the job done.

https://youtu.be/qyoJmfmVC4g The link to google drive folder for the parts list and drawings is there, and I am putting it here- https://drive.google.com/drive/folde...HV?usp=sharing

I had a significant number of requests for the info, and I have decided to do a tug build video in a couple of weeks.

Thanks Dan for the Tug plans and parts list!!

I finished my tug build last week, based on your plans and parts list. I used it several times and it works great. I did make some modifications based on my own needs. I don’t have electric at my hanger so relocated the motor forward to allow for more room in the rear for the battery compartment. The two batteries are in a tray with a quick disconnect so as to easily remove and take home for charging. I also enlarged the sprocket to an 84 to allow for more torque/power. I am using this tug on an RV10. If I was to build it again I might consider using a larger tire? As the tire will sometimes spin loosing traction, at that point I apply enough down pressure until we start moving again. One other reasons for the tug build is so I can pull the plane over to the fuel pumps without getting in and starting the plane up and taxiing. The pumps are about 200 foot away and it works great at pulling/pushing to and from. Attached are a couple photos of the completed tug.

Mike C.

[RVDan]

That looks great. Thanks for posting your results here. I am curious what mods you made to accommodate the RV 10 nose wheel.