View source for OSHW-OSE-Power Cube-Engine Options

=Introduction=

A discussion has taken place concerning modifications to the Power Cube for the upcoming OSEBG LifeTrac build.  The question was raised about powering the LifeTrac with a single more powerful Power Cube instead of two current Power Cubes.

=Similar Hydraulic Power Units=

Foster 35 HP diesel hydraulic power unit @ $18,000 and 3100 lbs (compare to Power Cube @ $2600 and 500 lbs):

 [[image:Foster_35HP_Diesel_Unit.jpeg]]
 [http://www.fostermfgcorp.com/page/diesel/35_hp.html Foster 35 hp diesel]

The Foster gasoline "Power Packs" are more comparable to the Power Cube - it is larger and heavier, but largely due to the 25 gal hydraulic reservoir:

 [[image:Foster_40HP_Gasoline_Unit.jpeg]]
 [http://www.fostermfgcorp.com/page/gas/40_hp.html Foster gasoline Power Unit]

Gulf Engine uses an interesting frame for their hydraulic power units:

 [[image:large_frame.jpg]]
 [http://www.gulfengine.com/html/hydraulicunits.html Gulf Engine power unit]

=Options=

==Engine==

 Diesel engines are heavier.  
 For example this 26.4 HP engine weighs 171 lbs dry and without radiator, fan or water.  
 It is comparable in price to some gasoline engines ($2195):
 [[image:Cat_26HP_Diesel_Engine.png]]
 [https://www.surpluscenter.com/item.asp?Item=28-1833 Surplus Center 26.4 hp diesel]

 Kohler engines - up to 38 HP in similar configuration as we use (Cost $2519.36):
 [[image:Kohler_38HP_Engine.jpg]]
 [http://www.jackssmallengines.com/small_engine_lookup.cfm?engine_manu_id=18&type=Vertical Kohler 38 hp engine]

 This is the 28 HP B&S engine I've been using - it has an excellent price of < $700.
 Shipping weight: 100 lbs (in reality: 85 lbs):
 [[image:Briggs_28HP_Engine.png]]
 [https://www.smallenginesuppliers.com/shop/html/pages/products/briggs_vertical_shaft_engines4390.html 28 hp Briggs & Stratton engine]

 The 36 HP B&S engine adds 28% more power, but at $2295, it costs more than 3x the price of the 28 HP engine.  
 Shipping weight: 135 lbs:
 [[image:Briggs_36HP_Engine.png]]
 [http://www.brandnewengines.com/613777-2110.aspx Briggs & Stratton 36 hp engine]

 After reviewing the options, the decision was made to use an air-cooled Volkswagen engine.  The model chosen is the 1600 cc, as it is the most common vw engine and it delivers between 50 - 60 horsepower.  It is larger and heavier than before, so the Power Cube must be re-designed with new pump, plumbing and reservoirs - as well as component placement and engine mounts:
 [[image:vw_1600cc_Engine.jpg]]

Of course, more power means more fluid flow and heat dissipation.  The hydraulic plumbing must also be considered and adjusted if necessary.  The pump will have to change as well.

==Hydraulic Pump==

 The pump currently being use - it is at full power utilization:
 [[image:Hydreco_Pump.png]]
 [https://www.surpluscenter.com/item.asp?catname=&qty=1&item=9-4848-E Hydreco pump]

 This Cessna pump can handle more power and fluid flow:
 [[image:Cessna_Pump.png]]
 [https://www.surpluscenter.com/item.asp?item=9-4063-C&catname= Cessna pump]

=Links=
*[[36 hp Briggs and Stratton]]