float tube wheels

[TubeDude]

[cool][#0000ff]Thanks. I will probably add about 15 to 20 pounds of bulky weight. But, I usually bungee it down over the seat area to balance the weight load and keep the center of gravity between the wheels. I have had few problems with tipping...with the exception of the modified golf cart. That had the center of gravity quite a bit higher and the wheel base was narrower.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]I am optimistic about the tests over rugged terrain. There are a couple of steep rocky trails I use to put my new models to the test. I usually do a walk down first, to move any major obstacles. [/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]There are two potential modifications I can foresee. First is to double reinforce the vertical strut of the wheels by putting them inside a piece of 1 1/4" PVC...or by filling the interior of the 1" PVC with expanding foam and putting a cap on the end. We will see how it holds up without reinforcing.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]The second potential modification will be a small single wheel at the front of the frame...to create a tripod and to reduce the potential for bouncing the front of the tube and frame off uneven ground or rocks. There have been a couple of trips where that has been an issue and it would not add much weight or bulk. I can even make it a "snap on" addition for the times when it is needed.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]The single big advantage of this latest design is that it is simple and compact...fitting right under the seat part of the tube without having to support the air chambers. Since that is where most of the weight is centered, it works well.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Stay tuned for further developments.[/#0000ff]
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