Restoring a Classic: The Journey of Reviving an Old Woods Backhoe

Welcome to Base Camp WNC! Today, we're excited to delve into an incredible restoration journey. Not long ago, we stumbled upon an old gem: a Woods three-point hitch backhoe that had seen better days. This relic, previously owned by a friend's uncle, lay abandoned in a field for two long decades, waiting for a fresh lease on life. Though we hadn't initially planned to document this project, we've collected a series of photographs and a few videos to share our progress.

Discovering the Backhoe
When we first came across this backhoe, it was evident that time and neglect had taken their toll. The bucket and stick photos probably highlight its condition best. Though rusty and worn, we saw potential in this forgotten machine.

The initial inspection showed missing hoses — we replaced a whopping 22 of them! And while the task was challenging, it was also deeply rewarding. As we stripped the backhoe down, wire-brushed it, and prepared it for the rebuild, it became apparent that this machinery had some life left in it. Indeed, as we soon discovered, once operational, this backhoe could give any shovel a run for its money.

The Rebuilding Process
Our detailed dismantling brought us closer to the machine's inner workings. We took apart the boom, the stick, the outriggers, and even removed all the hydraulic hoses. The Woods' official website was an invaluable resource during this process. By entering the model number, we could retrieve a comprehensive diagram of the backhoe, complete with hose measurements. This was particularly helpful, considering the previous owner had used a mismatch of hoses.
After cleaning and prepping, we reached the exciting phase of reassembling the backhoe. Each hydraulic hose was meticulously numbered, ensuring we knew exactly where each one belonged. This organized approach saved us significant time and guesswork.

Addressing Wear and Tear
One of the significant challenges was addressing the worn-out sections. Lack of lubrication had caused certain parts to wear unevenly. With limited tools, like a cut-off wheel and grinder, we were resourceful. We smoothed out rough patches and prepared them for new, larger bushings. These bushings were custom-made, transforming oblong holes into perfect circles.

Final Touches and Observations
The Woods backhoe, when connected to a tractor, revealed its age. Modern backhoes connect to tractors differently. Yet, the original three-point hitch of our vintage find still performed impressively, securely holding the machinery in place.

One minor hiccup we encountered was with the ball and socket linkage system, reminiscent of old car throttle linkages. This system often detached during operations. If anyone has information about this part, your insights would be invaluable.

Although the Woods brand is renowned, this specific backhoe had some makeshift modifications by previous owners. Surprisingly, its robust build could handle substantial loads like large rocks and stumps. We did, however, opt to replace one cylinder, finding a cost-effective solution through the Surplus Center.

Conclusion
Our restoration journey with this Woods backhoe was more than just reviving an old machine; it was about breathing new life into a piece of history. Now, this backhoe is ready to dig ditches, outperforming any manual tool, and saving us considerable costs. We look forward to taking it on various projects, ensuring it remains a working testament to the power of restoration.

As always, thank you for joining us on this adventure. Should you have any questions or need assistance with similar projects, feel free to reach out. Until next time, happy restoring!


Visit us at:  Carolina Homestead Planner and let us help you with your self-reliant and homesteading planning.

Solar Shack on a Shoestring: Innovations in Homestead Power

While most people may see an old 275-gallon water tote and dismiss it as trash, for some, it represents an opportunity to innovate. At Carolina Homestead Planners, we recently embarked on an exciting venture to transform such a tote into the most cost-effective solar shack ever devised.

The water tote in question was initially food-grade, but having been used for other purposes, it was unsuitable for storing water. Instead, the team decided to retrofit it with solar equipment, making it an efficient temporary power source. On the exterior, we installed an RV outlet, with plans to add a box for generator input once the client's generator is determined.

Opening the tote reveals a tech haven: a magnum sine inverter accompanied by eight impressive 420 amp-hour 6-volt batteries. Four of these batteries are arranged in series, and the other four in parallel, culminating in a 24-volt, 4000-watt split phase 220 inverter. Dubbed the "44 Magnum," this setup promises powerful energy output. Additionally, a solar charger has been fixed into the system, ensuring continuous power generation during daylight hours.

This ingenious creation couldn't have come at a better time for a family working to renovate an old homestead. They faced an obstacle in not being granted temporary power by the county, given the absence of house plans and a septic tank permit. This solar shack not only provides a stopgap solution for their RV but also has the potential to power their house upon completion, acting as a backup to their generator.

The construction process was straightforward but required careful attention to detail:

1. The tote was marked and cut to fashion a lid.
2. The interior metal signs and bars were removed.
3. An old frame was salvaged, and parts were reused.
4. Batteries and equipment shelves were carefully arranged and anchored.
5. To address condensation concerns, a secondary roof was added over the electric panel and inverter.
6. A stove-top vent was fitted to regulate temperature inside the tote.
7. The lid was re-engineered using deck boards and sheet metal screws for a tight fit, ensuring the tote's original aesthetic was preserved. This was essential in allowing the family to camouflage the solar shack as an ordinary water tote when not in use.

The total cost of this build, excluding the price of the tote and the solar equipment, came to a meager $50. This sum accounts for labor, paint, screws, bolts, and repurposed wood. Once the family completes their house, this solar shack could be repurposed for gasoline or propane storage, further enhancing its utility.

At Carolina Homestead Planners, we pride ourselves on our ability to think outside the box, bringing life to old objects and providing sustainable solutions. We’re excited to see this solar shack in action and are always ready to assist with similar innovative projects. If you ever need assistance, insights, or ideas, don't hesitate to reach out. Until our next innovation, we wish you all bright and sunny days!

Visit us at Carolina Homestead Planner and let us help with your homestead planning and self-reliant needs.

Mastering the Art of DIY Spring Heads: The Tale of Mr. Robert's Spring in Pennsylvania

Welcome to Base Camp WNC! If you're intrigued by owner-built spring heads, you're in the right place. Today, we're diving into a unique project headed by Mr. Robert from Pennsylvania. We aim to inspire budding DIY enthusiasts by showcasing a variety of approaches to these builds.

Mr. Robert chanced upon a natural spring in his area and embarked on the journey to harness its potential. To capture the water flow efficiently, he initially attempted to channel it through a pipe. This would not only measure the water output but also prevent the area from becoming too soggy. A special shout-out goes to Lucas, his neighbor, who lent a hand (and a shovel) to dig a trench ensuring the water had a streamlined flow path.

Employing some creative techniques, Mr. Robert repurposed a blue barrel. He converted it into a strip and drilled 1.25-inch holes using a hole saw. Through these, a white PVC fitting was attached, which easily screwed into the pre-drilled hole. While there might be a minor risk of leaks, a bit of Teflon tape or silicone caulk usually does the trick in sealing it. Interestingly, he further adapted the one-inch PVC fitting to connect with a gray poly pipe fitting, ensuring seamless integration.

Inside the dam wall, there's a one-inch male fitting that connects to the exterior. This fitting is complemented by a threaded coupling on the outside, making it easier to attach the gray adapter for the poly pipe. Mr. Robert recommends avoiding glue on the interior pipes. This ensures that in case of blockages or required maintenance, disassembly is easier. He's cleverly designed the bottom to draw water upwards, drilling holes for optimal water flow.

The project boasts two significant features:

1. A bottom crossbar serves as the main water intake.
2. A top bar equipped with a clean-out pipe for sanitation and overflow control.

He then took measures to prevent erosion by adding an overflow pipe, ensuring the water drains at a safe distance from the dam wall. The finishing touch involved back-filling with gravel, and Mr. Robert's method of transportation - a side by side vehicle - certainly made this task a tad easier. Comparatively, hauling gravel up a hill with a bucket would be quite laborious!

The final result? A well-constructed spring head that not only serves its functional purpose but also stands as a testament to Mr. Robert's dedication and skill. He achieved an impressive output of roughly 1.2 gallons a minute, translating to nearly 2,000 gallons a day. And all of this for a budget just shy of $100 for materials (excluding labor). Though, a little humor to note: Lucas may have contributed a lot, but he also walked away with a whopping 3,700 mosquito bites!

Projects like these highlight the beauty of DIY. Mr. Robert's story is not only motivating but also a brilliant example of community and innovation. We encourage our readers to share their projects, photos, and experiences. As always, for those needing guidance or consultation, feel free to reach out.

Until our next DIY adventure, stay inspired and keep building! And don't forget to share, subscribe, and spread the word about Base Camp WNC. See you soon!


Visit us at:  Carolina Homestead Planner and let us help you with your preparedness and Homesteading Projects.

Revitalizing Spring Water: Innovations in North Carolina's Base Camp

Nestled in the serene landscapes of western North Carolina lies an intriguing water project. At this base camp, our focus is on spring water, but with a twist that sets it apart from the norm.

Upon arriving, you'd first encounter the water collection setup located up the slope. It uses a spring box where water flows seamlessly, and on certain days, you can observe the overflow when the flow is shut off. Underground is a fascinating element – a thousand-gallon tank. This tank is a response to the challenges of the region's low-producing well, which often struggles to meet household water demands during the summer months. Therefore, it is complemented by the spring water.

However, this spring presents its unique challenges. The water carries with it a significant amount of suspended material, hinting that its source is more earth than rock. Over time, the accumulated debris and dirt mean that the spring box's minor holes (designed for overflow) become blocked, and the tank itself becomes a repository for mud and silt.

To resolve this issue, a filtering mechanism at the home has been introduced. It comprises a spin-down filter, a replaceable filter, and a UV light. Yet, due to the sheer amount of fine dirt in the spring water, the filters get clogged quite frequently, sometimes as often as every week.

Enter the solution: a redesigned spring box, boasting four filters, to better handle the water's suspended material. This newly built spring box has another innovative feature. It connects to the storage tank, which is equipped with a float valve. When the tank is full, the spring water supply is shut off, giving priority to the well water, known for its cleanliness. This system is especially beneficial when the property is rented out, and water consumption may vary.

Initial attempts to capture and filter the water were met with challenges, including the infiltration of surface water. However, with persistence and adaptability, the approach was revised. The design now includes a unique water collection system resembling a pool filter. Using a combination of filter fabric, gravel, rock, and sand, it aims to harness the pure spring water while letting the surface water, especially during rains, bypass the collection area.

The improved spring box is a testament to ingenuity. Constructed from a 30-gallon drum and equipped with multiple inlets and outlets, its design ensures an even distribution of water, making the filtering process more efficient. As water fills up, the overflow gets directed back into the creek, preserving the environment while ensuring a consistent water supply.

In conclusion, this water project epitomizes innovation and adaptability. From the challenges posed by the spring and the low-producing well to the solutions devised to address them, the journey has been an educational one. As always, our team is eager to assist with similar challenges and share our expertise. Thank you for joining us on this enlightening expedition, and we look forward to our next venture. Safe travels until then!

Visit us at Carolina Homestead Planner.  We can assist you in your preparedness needs and Homestead planning.