The Hesse Family's Motorized Chariot
After stumbling across this pages, Mr. Kevin Hesse and his father spent
the winter 2001/02 building the most advanced "South seeking chariot" yet.
(click on picture for higher resolution)
Some technical data:
-
Gear set-up based loosely on the "Nuttall"
design,
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composed of wheels from three Ford rear ends.
-
Chain transmission between gearbox (rear axle) to pointer (in front of
the steering wheel).
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Engine is a 1953 vintage 2 1/4hp REO lawn mower engine (made in Michigan).
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Hydrostat drive giving forward and reverse.
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Electric starter.
-
Seats (up to) two persons!
Some details can be seen in the rear view below.
If You're in the US, there is a good chance to see this vehicle at engine
shows, with young Miss Hesse at the wheel !
Lessons to be learnt: "The only thing that we noticed is that because
the rubber tires change diameter depending on the weight of the riders,
the pointer "drifts" if one rider is heavier than the other. So if you
spot us driving around in circles in the fog that's why. (Kevin
Hesse)"
Pictures received by email from Kevin Hesse 28.02.2002
