LifeTrac II Build/Frame Construction Video Script

The LifeTrac Tractor frame is constructed from eighteen pieces of 4 x 4 x 1/4 inch steel tube. These pieces are cut and drilled to make eight unique forms that are then assembled with 9 1/2 x 3/4 inch bolts.

This video includes the most updated measurements from LifeTrac III prototypes on the Factor E Farm. I will refer to the orientation of the frame pieces as if we are sitting in the drivers seat of the LifeTrac: north is to the front end where the loader will be attached, south is behind us at the back of the tractor, west is on our left hand side and east is on our right hand side. All lateral measurements of the beams are from left to right, all measurements of depth are from front to back, and all measurements of height are from top to bottom. Each drill hole is measured from one end of the tube to accommodate for error in tube length. Drill each hole completely through the tube.

1- First step is to cut and drill the lower frame pieces. These three pieces are identical, measuring 60 inches in length. Cut the steel tubes with either a cut off saw or a bandsaw to a length of 60 inches. Drill 3/16 inch holes on the side of the first tube at a distance of 14 inches and 46 inches from the left side. Rotate the tube 90 degrees and drill holes on the top at a distance of 2 inches, 10 inches, 50 inches, and 58 inches. Once again, the measurement of each hole is from one end of the tube. Repeat drilling holes on all three lower frame pieces.

Lay out six blocks on the floor of your workshop to assembled the frame on. Place the three lower frame pieces on the blocks.

2 - Next cut and drill the two identical inner north/south pieces. Cut the tubes to a length of 76 inches. On the side of the tube, drill holes at 6 inches, 9 inches, 13 inches, 30 inches, 63 inches, 67 inches, and 70 inches. Rotate the tube 90 degrees and drill holes in the top at 2 inches, 34 inches, 55 inches, 58 inches, 62 inches, and 74 inches.

3 - Now cut the two outer identical outer north/south pieces at a length of 76 inches. Drill holes on the side at 9 inches, 13 inches, 63 inches, and 67 inches. Rotate the tube 90 degrees and drill holes in the top at 2 inches, 34 inches, 58 inches, 62 inches, and 74 inches.

Place the inner and outer north/south pieces on top of the lower frame pieces on the workshop floor. Adjust the blocks so you have access to the underside of the holes. Align the holes you've drilled and bolt together using washers. If the holes are not exact you may need to drill them out further.

The vertical frame pieces are fabricated in pairs. The front, middle, and rear vertical pieces are different lengths.

4 - First cut the two identical front vertical pieces to a height of 55 inches. Drill holes on the front of the piece at 6 inches and 50 inches. Rotate the tube 90 degrees and drill holes in the side at 2 inches and 46 inches.

5 - Now cut the two identical middle vertical pieces to a height of 52 inches. Drill holes on the front of the piece at 6 inches, 24 inches, and 50 inches. Rotate the tube 90 degrees and drill holes in the side at 2 inches and 46 inches.

6- Cut the two identical rear vertical pieces to a height of 59 inches. Drill holes on the front at 2 inches, 21 inches, 29.5 inches, 47.5 inches, and 54 inches. Rotate the tube 90 degrees and drill holes in the side at 6 inches and 50 inches.

Mount the vertical frame pieces to the the inner corners of the lower frame with bolts, nuts, and washers. Tighten loosely, leaving a little room for play.

7 - On to the top of the frame. Cut the two identical top north/south frame pieces to a length of 68 inches. Drill holes in the top at 6 inches, 22 inches, and 62 inches. Rotate the tube and drill holes in the side at 2 inches, 26 inches, and 66 inches. At 46.5 inches, mark a center point and then torch out a hole with a diameter of 2 3/8 inches. This is where the tractor arms will connect.

Mount the top north/south frame pieces to the vertical frame pieces.

8 - Lastly, cut the three identical top cross pieces to a length of 44 inches. Drill holes on the front at 6 inches and 38 inches. Rotate the tube and drill holes on the top at 2 inches and 42 inches.

Mount the top cross pieces to the frame. Tighten all frame bolts extra tight.

For additional information and media on fabricating and assembling the LifeTrac frame, visit the Open Source Ecology wiki page.