OSTrac

OSTrac Concept

OSTrac is an open source tractor/skid loader. It steers and loads like a skid loader, but beyond that it has a number of features that set it apart from skid loaders and make these vehicles suitable for agriculture. The main features for agriculture are a 3-point hitch, power takeoff, and high-flow hydraulic takeoff. These features make the OSTrac capable of using any agricultural implements.

OSTrac is also designed with a winch, and is designed to be equipped with well-drilling equipment with 10-foot drilling pipe sections.

As such, the design is one of highest utility and versatility, combining the power of skid loaders with agricultural tractors and construction tractors. A Compressed Eearth Block press is designed for use as an implement with OSTrac, and a backhoe as well.

The unique feature is the modularity and design for disassembly. Priority one is lifetime design, where any problem can be troubleshooted and fixed readily. Bye-bye to $1-2,000 transmission jobs at the shop. No transmission is required - it's built-in to the hydraulic drive.

Components are designed to be standard steel as much as possible. The goal is to have the user-owner fully capable of maintenance. By design, no issue in OSTrac should be more expensive than $250 to fix. Standard steel components (sheet, tubing, shaft, etc.) is used, with no forming or machining outside of minor welding and lathing, for repair and construction of OSTrac.

General design goals:

• Skid loader concept
• Skid steering
• 4 wheel drive
• 2 wheel drive for doubled speed
• Front-end loader
• Backhoe attachment available
• Well-drilling attachment available
• CEB attachment available
• Hybrid between a skid loader, agricultural tractor, and construction tractor

Specifications:

• 4.5 mph in 4 wheel drive
• 9 mph in 2 wheel drive
• 40 gpm auxiliary hydraulics, 2 channels
• Weight: 3000 lb
• Modular: 2 OSTracs may be mounted together for double traction power
• 3500 lb winch
• 60 hp 4.2 l GM engine (weak point)
• Four 32 cubic inch hydraulic motors
• 3-point hitch
• Power take off, hydraulic - 0-600 rpm

Maintenance:

• Yearly maintenance costs designed to be no more than $100 with heavy duty usage

Evolution:

• Flash-steam bladeless turbine drive being explored
• Flash-steam electric hybrid drive being developed

Initial Conceptual Drawings

OSTrac Frame

OSTrac Wheel Mounting

OSTrac Hydraulic System