@randr10 Yeh that robot thing is probably atleast twice the weight of that forklift and likely way above its rated capacity. Lets call it "The little Clark that could"
Very cool. Do you know any model radio controlled airplane enthusiasts? Those controllers are multichannel, portional controls, and programmable. I've built a 1:5 P38, Spitfire IX, and have a B17G on the docket. (All in mothballs until I can get my house & shop built) All of them can be controlled with the same Futaba controller. Waaaay less than 10K for the radio receivers and servos for all 3 birds. The transmitter was the single most expensive thing at ~$1100.
Doing a little digging it sounds like that was The Logg Dogg by Forest Robots, LLC. Looks like they got two rounds of grants and ultimately sold the prototype to another company. I'll be curious to see what else people can turn up! The internet archive has a copy of their old website.
@@bradfordperry5997 I was able to find the SBIR grants they received and they have a bunch of details. Here's the second grant number 2004-33610-15114.
It is the best, but I think it's the only channel for log splitter repair, Wes is the only guy on YT that would take on a complicated repair of a piece of equipmentblike this, that's what makes his channel so great.
@@TheHomePros6221Just you wait. Everyone's going to get one now like they did draglines! Which while interesting historically actually make really boring content when they're running
Hey Wes, I have a friend whos an electrical engineer for CBI, dudes a genius who remembers everything. Im hoping, since he works in roughly the same part of the forestry industry, he may have some insight for you on this delightful creation you've found. Edit: he said it looks like it could be made by FAE Group, looks like the right color scheme and scale
First thing that came to mind when you mentioned rarity coupled with the different kinds of bolts, parts and whatnot was... University engineers! I imagined it would have been part of a program, competition or even some whacky thesis... Glad you already found out about the person who was involved in the development of this creature. I'd love to see it come to live completely!
this thing needs to go from forest robot to snow plow robot all from the comfort of your house and/or shop. now that would be an awesome series to watch.
I graduated from a Forest Resource Management program in 2004. Low impact harvesting was frequently intertwined into the curriculum. This machine looks like something straight out of a promotional video we would have watched.
@@erik_dk842and probably not as cheap as the kid at the neighbors farm/ranch in the summer time, LOL. Did and of them do well and get used in the harvesting? Curious to know what you learned and got used in your tenure.?? Thanks for the comment and sharing it with us.
@@erik_dk842 Not sure what is done in other places, but for somewhat steep, yet not too steep, areas at least in Germany, Austria and Switzerland they are actually still using horses as they do not damage the soil too much and could navigate single logs way more nimble out of the area. This is of course only used if they do kind of maintaining forrests, not if the harvest half a forest for wood. They tried to find other ways, but always came back to horses, although its only few these days.
Wes, I like how your wife wasn't surprised or shocked by your request. 🤣 Your commentary is as entertaining as the video is informative. You have one of the best channels on youtube. Thanks for all that you do!
After running some part numbers, I think you have a whole TIME/Versalift Digger Derrick Control System right there. According to the manual(which should be a google search away using the product name), the E-Stop might be asserted by that control box, so worth digging some more. The manual also mentioned a cable remote(T47), would be nice to rig up some SBCs that have wireless functions into the wired interface if pinouts can be found. Pretty excited about this project, wish to see more soon
I was trying to do some of the digging myself; I don't know a whole lot about OMREX; but I'm sure that whatever that thing is it's able to do PWM output, which is important when your running a joystick-type proportional control; or conversely, when jogging hydraulic valves.... Always glad to lend a hand to the channel if wes needs it!
@@n3lee It's basically a high current PWM controller with some kind of sensor monitoring/watchdog function. As Wes had mentioned in the video, the hard part for replacing that thing is to figure out something that is reliable enough to continuously drive moderate to high loads those solenoids require, and doesn't cost a ton. That's why I'm suggesting to leverage existing hardware and patch in controls using the wired interface. Reliability should already be evaluated by the people who built this, and also the PWM calibration for the valves should already be programmed into that board, which sometimes is a pain to figure out.....
Regardless of how this machine morphs into something useful, I can't wait to see you reverse engineer the control logic in that remote receiver. Start with the basics and draw yourself up a schematic diagram of what's in there. I'm guessing most of it will solve or at least reveal itself. This will be fascinating to watch! You've got this, Wes!
I’ve been married 42 years and have never heard the words “why not” when I asked to buy something. I have, however, heard the words “ a you f’n crazy?” thousands of times
For low impact areas you'd be better off with a shovel logging operation. That tiny ass skidder would be incredibly inefficient. A 3 month job would take a year. I can see why it was abandoned.
6:55 Hi, I'm from the EPA. Thank you for clarifying your use of biodegradable lubricant, however that is a $5000 fine for using an inappropriate container.
As far as the electronic side of thing goes, I would try hooking the Eaton box up to a computer with a serial cable, quite often things like that have a command line diagnostic interface, and it may be able to tell you what hydraulic functions are connected where, and what kind of sensors/limit switches are on the machine.
The control system is all old concrete pump stuff. The remote and throttle cylinder are common on those engines, duetz as well. Cool machine wish I could play with it.
I’ve been rewatching some of your older videos, mainly the rollback truck and the yellow International plow truck. Your videos have improved a lot, thank you for doing it. I really like your style, and the “hole in the head” projects, that you take on. Thanks
@@WatchWesWork I would say you are mainly more confident. Your videos atleast never left me wanting. Especially not when it comes to the quality of content.
Thank you, Wes. You never disappoint. If you sort out all of the the remote controlled skidder issues, who knows where it might lead. And I'm pretty sure you will. Have fun.
Wes, this is a helluva barn find. I was amazed you got it running. I look forward to the following videos that you create while trying to get this piece back to working order.
cut up sections of street signs and piles of leaves is what I used for "lubrication" when dragging heavy things. One time a big ornamental rock fell off a truck and by the time the township guy showed up I already had a 600lbs rock winched onto my donkey's wagon and was headed back into town to sell it to a guy who already had a couple. Township guy later asked me where all the leaves had come from. XD
I think you should convert this thing into a robotic mini skid steer. That would be really really cool to have around, and it would be hilarious to actually use
im actually speechless this thing is so unique and cool super compact multipurpose just all around great also i must mention mrs wes has to be one of the best wives the fact she lets you buy random crap and doesnt complain(at least not on camera) is nothing short of a miracle wes your one lucky man
Rings a bell that I have seen a similar machine being demonstrated here in the UK. Must have been at least 30 or more years ago. An exciting find indeed. Thank you for posting.
Possibly the most interesting project I have seen dug out of an old barn. Equally interesting is the number of old machinery "tragics" (subscribers) digging themselves out of the woodwork with suggestions. Fixing those control boxes seems to be the key. Mechanicals look straightforward, but the innards of those hydraulics may or may not have problems of their own. This project is a beauty.
Wes, I think all of your fans including myself appreciate a mystery item video. Looking forward to part two. I have a feeling there are a lot of people right now scouring the Internet for information about this machine.
Wes , I can think of no one else that could or would attempt to figure out the remote situation. This thing is nuts and I love it. Imagine what else you could make it do with all the hydraulic stuff that’s already in place. Or even put a seat on it and bypass all the remote stuff. Look forward to whatever you do to it. Thanks
ok great job, now hurry up and get to part two. I have followed this channel for several years now and absolutely love the projects that come through the shop. Keep up the amazing work, thanks for sharing.
*That thing is WILD!* 😧 What a cool find Wes, glad you had help from the sellers and your dad. I need to find some of those equipment skates you were using. Us viewers know it's in right hands, especially with the wiring and controls. Engine sounds healthy too 🙂👍 Would make a cool miniature armored "Marvin" dozer 😂
@@WatchWesWork maybe time for a trailer mounted winch? You got it there in the end though which is all that counts. That 9-pin serial connector was really teasing me in the RX box. Probably reasonably easy to get the docs for the controller and might be able to download the configuration from it if not actually control it? Dunno. Super interesting find though!
The winch backing plate being capable of spinning may be for constant weight of pull. If the log starts rolling off a cliff and janks, the line may spool out to save equipment. Like a drag setting on a fishing reel or a deep sea winch on a boat that compensates for waves and cancels them out.
In a heartbeat I would have done the same thing when I was younger ,You have the expertise to repair anything so there should be no hesitation and it makes for good video ,looks like a awesome toy ,You very well have a one off prototype of this machine . Wes it's hunting season lets do some, Wes Check with Matt from Diesel Creek he's worked on those German diesel engine before and Probably would know where to get parts .
your dad said the same thing I was thinking ... the guys that helped loading had a smile on their faces the entire time. A sign of good people with good upbringing and enjoying what they do.
That thing is really sweet! I'm glad that I waited until the end to leave a comment, because you ended up finding out some of the backstory behind it. Hopefully you find out more! (like info regarding the remote setup, etc.) And I look forward to seeing you do some more work on it :)
Very excited for this series! Here in the Pacific North West while trail riding with our motorcycles we find old logging equipment that has been abandoned from time to time. Would love to see this thing up and working as intended.
@@HondaRedneck16 Wenatchee area, found an old skid steer up the colockum, also found an old abandoned steel line type crane up Blewett pass off the beaten pass. Lots and lots of trails and forest service roads here in this area.
Hope we're getting another video on this! It's been years since last I stumbled upon a UA-cam channel I instantly fell in love with. You're clearly very knowledgeable about things like this, know how to wrench, storytelling is on point, man, this was an awesome 38 minutes of my life! Subbed and planning on binging some videos today 😆😁
Awesome! You're lucky to have found that and the machine is lucky Wes is the one to rescue it! Looking forward to more videos on this project and I'm confident you'll sort it.
My guess would be that the basic machine was repurposed to create a prototype. That could explain the two radio control systems. Omnex might be able to tell you by serial number who the controls were sold to and they can tell you what remote is required but you likely know that. I've had some experience with Hetronic remote controls used on service cranes. I installed a system on a scrap metal baler so it could be controlled from the material handler used to feed it. The handheld remote radio transmitter for a service crane cost almost $1,000 when it was left in the wrong place while they were changing hammers in the shredder. This machine might have been too light to do what they were trying to build it for so it was abandoned.
It's not a question of need, it's a question of, well, it's a question! I love MrsWes' response. My wife would've just said "hell no"! Good to see all 3 generations on this pick. Kiddo is getting some great lessons here.
Thank you for this video - looking forward to the rest of season 1 and all of season 2. On a more personal note, cherish the time spent with your old man (even when it’s more mundane stuff) it’s priceless.
There's an interview at caltech's site with a photo of exactly this skidder too. Pretty much confirmed. Search google with the following, including the quotes: "forest robots" skidder
Man this is the kind of content I was hoping for when you said your mechanic business might take a back seat to your UA-cam channel. Amazing and unique find. Can't wait to see what else you dig out of the Midwest in the future.
For Robots (or more like remote controlled machines) I found indeed that there are at least two more modern products on the market here in Europe, I found what is calles the Energreen Robo Max and the Pfanzelt Forstraupe Moritz. The first one can even be used with for example a Mulching head. Both are made by either German or Austrian companies. I would absolutely not wonder if they have more models up in scandinavia or maybe in France or elsewhere. Some Comapny named Scion Research seemed to have worked on something comparable down in New Zealand, that one seems to even have included a feller robot. It is quite a niche market, so there may be not as much information easy to find. But the way that thing is build, it indeed seems to be some kind of home brew prototype or proof of concept.
Wes, Tell the wife we said Thanks for letting you buy it! And pat yourself on the back for getting that engine running! Definetly looking forward to the next episode!
Wes, that’s a hunka hunka orange steel right there. I’ve seen similar apparatus down here in Texas used by mobile home movers to spot trailers in tight quarters
I'm just stabbing in the dark here but maybe a remote like they use with a concrete pumper would get this thing back in business. Can't wait to see where this goes! Thanks Wes!
I have been watching that ad for awhile now. Wishing I had something like that. I have lots of wood that I can't get to with normal equipment. I am so glad I can watch it come back to life.
I love how the channel is going Wes. You have me on the edge of my seat. It seams like the family is all in too!! Max was right on it as you unloaded it. No surprise it has mouse houses.
Two separate receivers with one being GPS makes sense in following waypoints repeatedly. Being able to send it "home" to drop logs and return to fresh trees would save your fingers by the end of the day.
@@WatchWesWork Wes, soon as you got it turlning over i knew it would eventually fire by the sound, been around diesels fare part of my working life and i guess got to know the sounds of good versus bad..
I can't help to think that this probably has some kind of safety shut down built into the control unit if the remote is out of range or not detected and that may be part of the reason why it won't run
Wes, the sheet metal stylizing/forming/fabrication, at the blade end, makes me think that the “base” unit is from some commercially built equipment…, but I am sure you have already made those observations. The Hatts air cooled diesel engines are used quite a bit by the western (Oregon, Washington, Idaho) logging industry, on their “yarder carriage” units. These units fly above (on yarder cables) the fell logs are electronically remotely operated to retrieve the logs. Look forward to the many videos in this series. Thank you sir.
That’s exactly what I figured. It was a prototype for Department of forestry or agriculture Did it start out as part of a ditch witch? Or some other trenching machine. I’ve been on two projects like this for the University of Alaska Fairbanks In the late 1940s after World War II there was some small bulldozers made I think it was like 200 of them built and they would parachute them into a forest fire area and then the smoke jumpers would go in there and run them It was a guy in Fairbanks that had one of these airdrop bulldozers running. He would run it in the parade on the size of that thing you have.
Excellent video Wes :) also your dad be interesting working with this one and cool machine never seen ever too! Looking forward more videos too soon watch on this one!
i have the manual. if you need any information. I assume that it has been hot, which is why the cover bolts have loosened. the shutdown solenoid works with oil pressure. there is a large traction coil that works at the same time as the starter's exciter. the running coil is smaller which keeps the oil pressure when energized. the engine shuts down slowly when the power goes out because the oil has to leave the solenoid.
Wes my friend, this is probably the coolest peice of machinery on UA-cam! I would so love to see more! I love watching you in "detective" mode. Your voice your thoughts and reasoning as your going along in a way that has me following closely and learning. Love the direction you're going with the channel! Cheers Mate!
really interessting vehicle, remote controlled crawlers like it have been in use for quite a while in Europe not only in Forestry but also for mulching and mowing very steep slopes and other difficult terrain and some other tool carrier applications. Given the Pricetag they arent too common but far from unheard of at least here in Austria aswell as Switzerland, Germany and id imagine the rest of the Alps and Scandinavia. Hope you get it up and running again Wes definitely gonna be an interessting project.
From what I know about PLCs, you may have a machine control and a safety control. You never want to have your safety devices as part of the machine control. In the event that the machine control fails, the safety system would still be functional. That could be critical for a robot, such as this. This might explain the duplicate controls. I'm guessing that machine was built by Eaton in Canada. Omnex is now owned by them. Eaton may have the info you need for wiring and control. They may also be able to tell you why they abandoned this prototype and project.
Wes big fan of your channel. Your video editing has gotten a lot better over time and your content is always interesting even when you are just doing the routine stuff. I found your channel back when you were fixing that old dozer. Been hooked ever since. Thanks for everything. Curious what a guy will do with a logging robot though. 🧐
Very interesting find Wes! Glad to see it run! That forklift has been a great investment for sure, now the skid loader as well! Great seeing your dad , but was worried a bit when he was standing on that wood. I noticed that when you had your bucket up on skid loader you had some scuffing on the auxiliary lines, I usually put used heater hoses to protect them from that. I’m sure that professor will give you some insight on that machine, it could have been a whole class project much similar to when colleges build prototype flying machines in competition.Thanks also goes to the wife for agreeing to get the whole project going!
Let's all take a moment to appreciate that forklift. What a champion!
For real. I was amazed when that forklift lifted the robot off the trailer. Absolute beast of a machine.
@@Daktyl198 Everyone should have a forklift in their life.
Yeah. People don't understand how crazy powerful those little machines are, but they can straight up pick most cars off the ground no problem.
@randr10 Yeh that robot thing is probably atleast twice the weight of that forklift and likely way above its rated capacity. Lets call it "The little Clark that could"
@@rovhalgrencparselstedt8343 The forklift is rated to lift 5475lbs. We are well within its limits.
“Why not’”… Wow, she is a keeper!
😂😂😂
Probably got another piece of furniture she wanted.
Boss apparently approved…😂😂😂
Resistance is futile….
Very cool. Do you know any model radio controlled airplane enthusiasts? Those controllers are multichannel, portional controls, and programmable. I've built a 1:5 P38, Spitfire IX, and have a B17G on the docket. (All in mothballs until I can get my house & shop built) All of them can be controlled with the same Futaba controller. Waaaay less than 10K for the radio receivers and servos for all 3 birds. The transmitter was the single most expensive thing at ~$1100.
Doing a little digging it sounds like that was The Logg Dogg by Forest Robots, LLC. Looks like they got two rounds of grants and ultimately sold the prototype to another company. I'll be curious to see what else people can turn up! The internet archive has a copy of their old website.
Shame YT wont allow links.
Same
Thanks for the info....How on earth did you figure that out?
@@bradfordperry5997 I was able to find the SBIR grants they received and they have a bunch of details. Here's the second grant number 2004-33610-15114.
Kudos to you for wearing a respirator and gloves (PPE) while removing the rodent mess! I have seen so many videos on YT where the don't!
Wes has the best vintage robot log skidder repair channel on YT.
It is the best, but I think it's the only channel for log splitter repair, Wes is the only guy on YT that would take on a complicated repair of a piece of equipmentblike this, that's what makes his channel so great.
It’s the only channel…
@@TheHomePros6221Just you wait. Everyone's going to get one now like they did draglines! Which while interesting historically actually make really boring content when they're running
*Snorts coffee
@@TheHomePros6221 That's the joke!
Your dad seems like a really fun dude to do projects with
Great job, figuring out how to monetize working on projects with Dad!
Also, Matt would be proud :-)
He seems more fun to work with than my dad. 😂
I think im still missing the end of my tongue from a shot to the head, right after "hold this flashlight"!@@samuelw.3992
There is a difference between a Dad and a Father. I had a Dad too, I miss him dearly every day.
My dad's been gone 30 years as of November 8th. Not a day goes by I don't think about him. He was a humorous and compassionate person.@@silent1967
Hey Wes, I have a friend whos an electrical engineer for CBI, dudes a genius who remembers everything. Im hoping, since he works in roughly the same part of the forestry industry, he may have some insight for you on this delightful creation you've found.
Edit: he said it looks like it could be made by FAE Group, looks like the right color scheme and scale
First thing that came to mind when you mentioned rarity coupled with the different kinds of bolts, parts and whatnot was... University engineers! I imagined it would have been part of a program, competition or even some whacky thesis... Glad you already found out about the person who was involved in the development of this creature. I'd love to see it come to live completely!
this thing needs to go from forest robot to snow plow robot all from the comfort of your house and/or shop. now that would be an awesome series to watch.
Already has a blade, so it's mostly a snowplough already :)
@@thesteelrodent1796 Spoken like a southerern...(best imitation of Crockodile Dundee) "That's not a plough...this is a plough!"
I graduated from a Forest Resource Management program in 2004. Low impact harvesting was frequently intertwined into the curriculum. This machine looks like something straight out of a promotional video we would have watched.
It basically does what you could do with horses
@@erik_dk842and probably not as cheap as the kid at the neighbors farm/ranch in the summer time, LOL. Did and of them do well and get used in the harvesting? Curious to know what you learned and got used in your tenure.?? Thanks for the comment and sharing it with us.
@@erik_dk842and what they used to do! In the past they used Belgian traction horses to do this kind of work.
@@erik_dk842 Not sure what is done in other places, but for somewhat steep, yet not too steep, areas at least in Germany, Austria and Switzerland they are actually still using horses as they do not damage the soil too much and could navigate single logs way more nimble out of the area. This is of course only used if they do kind of maintaining forrests, not if the harvest half a forest for wood. They tried to find other ways, but always came back to horses, although its only few these days.
Can’t wait to see it fully operational. And I have no doubt Wes will get it to that point.
Wes, I like how your wife wasn't surprised or shocked by your request. 🤣 Your commentary is as entertaining as the video is informative. You have one of the best channels on youtube. Thanks for all that you do!
Love is knowing she'll tolerate the bit and asking anyway
Why not? Also, never adopt any redheaded children please, you don't want them looking like 21:13
I have the exact same Clark forklift as you Wes, mine needs some work though lol... Runs and lifts, but leaks hydraulic oil like a sieve!
Nope, it’s exactly the same! Mine currently pours oil out the main cylinder.
After running some part numbers, I think you have a whole TIME/Versalift Digger Derrick Control System right there.
According to the manual(which should be a google search away using the product name), the E-Stop might be asserted by that control box, so worth digging some more.
The manual also mentioned a cable remote(T47), would be nice to rig up some SBCs that have wireless functions into the wired interface if pinouts can be found.
Pretty excited about this project, wish to see more soon
I was trying to do some of the digging myself; I don't know a whole lot about OMREX; but I'm sure that whatever that thing is it's able to do PWM output, which is important when your running a joystick-type proportional control; or conversely, when jogging hydraulic valves.... Always glad to lend a hand to the channel if wes needs it!
@@n3lee It's basically a high current PWM controller with some kind of sensor monitoring/watchdog function.
As Wes had mentioned in the video, the hard part for replacing that thing is to figure out something that is reliable enough to continuously drive moderate to high loads those solenoids require, and doesn't cost a ton.
That's why I'm suggesting to leverage existing hardware and patch in controls using the wired interface.
Reliability should already be evaluated by the people who built this, and also the PWM calibration for the valves should already be programmed into that board, which sometimes is a pain to figure out.....
Good spotting! Would be really interesting to see it hacked. If the company were good sports they would help out.
This will be a fun series to follow, you're a genius Wes.
My thoughts exactly! This cool little machine has ended up in the right hands! Looking forward to the next installments on this!
Involve diesel creek to get it spicy
Regardless of how this machine morphs into something useful, I can't wait to see you reverse engineer the control logic in that remote receiver. Start with the basics and draw yourself up a schematic diagram of what's in there. I'm guessing most of it will solve or at least reveal itself. This will be fascinating to watch! You've got this, Wes!
The remote is not a big issue, many ways to implement a controller without reverse engineering the circutry in the receiver.
Where’s the fun in that though
The Starter- They've been beating it like a red headed stepchild. Never heard that one before, you made me laugh again.
I'm really looking forward to many more episodes on this bad boy. Nothing cooler than reviving a one of a kind prototype. Good call Wes!
I’ve been married 42 years and have never heard the words “why not” when I asked to buy something. I have, however, heard the words “ a you f’n crazy?” thousands of times
I’ve worked in UK forestry for over forty years, never seen a machine like that. Looks a great idea for low impact areas. Looking forward to part 2
For low impact areas you'd be better off with a shovel logging operation. That tiny ass skidder would be incredibly inefficient. A 3 month job would take a year. I can see why it was abandoned.
Yep, for all those trees you have around your shop this is a godsend….😀. Looking forward to the future videos.
Awesome first start!! 👏
I have to say, a round of applause also for the old Clark forklift. Love the channel Wes 👍👍
Yeah, I was surprised that forklift able to lift the forest robot without falling over.
I would say: Load test passed.
@@QBRX The forklift wasn't even straining or breaking a sweat; the Forest Robot was well under its stated max capacity.
6:55 Hi, I'm from the EPA. Thank you for clarifying your use of biodegradable lubricant, however that is a $5000 fine for using an inappropriate container.
As far as the electronic side of thing goes, I would try hooking the Eaton box up to a computer with a serial cable, quite often things like that have a command line diagnostic interface, and it may be able to tell you what hydraulic functions are connected where, and what kind of sensors/limit switches are on the machine.
The control system is all old concrete pump stuff. The remote and throttle cylinder are common on those engines, duetz as well. Cool machine wish I could play with it.
I’ve been rewatching some of your older videos, mainly the rollback truck and the yellow International plow truck.
Your videos have improved a lot, thank you for doing it.
I really like your style, and the “hole in the head” projects, that you take on. Thanks
As long as they don't get worse...
@@WatchWesWork I would say you are mainly more confident. Your videos atleast never left me wanting. Especially not when it comes to the quality of content.
Thank you, Wes. You never disappoint. If you sort out all of the the remote controlled skidder issues, who knows where it might lead. And I'm pretty sure you will. Have fun.
@@WatchWesWorkLOL
You have an unmatched curiosity regarding mechanical equipment..... and you're a good story teller.
Wes, this is a helluva barn find. I was amazed you got it running. I look forward to the following videos that you create while trying to get this piece back to working order.
cut up sections of street signs and piles of leaves is what I used for "lubrication" when dragging heavy things. One time a big ornamental rock fell off a truck and by the time the township guy showed up I already had a 600lbs rock winched onto my donkey's wagon and was headed back into town to sell it to a guy who already had a couple. Township guy later asked me where all the leaves had come from. XD
I think you should convert this thing into a robotic mini skid steer. That would be really really cool to have around, and it would be hilarious to actually use
It's pretty much there. I have a feeling it's pretty slow though.
i mean, if you are clearing snow from inside your living room, who cares how slow it is, you are still warm. @@WatchWesWork
@watchweswork call flaming dirt in for the electronics he is a wizard of sorts
Wes you could charge admission for a show like that
@@jbird28584 He did work for DirtPerfect.
im actually speechless this thing is so unique and cool super compact multipurpose just all around great also i must mention mrs wes has to be one of the best wives the fact she lets you buy random crap and doesnt complain(at least not on camera) is nothing short of a miracle wes your one lucky man
Rings a bell that I have seen a similar machine being demonstrated here in the UK. Must have been at least 30 or more years ago. An exciting find indeed. Thank you for posting.
Possibly the most interesting project I have seen dug out of an old barn. Equally interesting is the number of old machinery "tragics" (subscribers) digging themselves out of the woodwork with suggestions. Fixing those control boxes seems to be the key. Mechanicals look straightforward, but the innards of those hydraulics may or may not have problems of their own. This project is a beauty.
Watching your pops ride that thing like a pair of skis was hilarious. I can tell he's seen a lot of days of hard work.
Wes, I think all of your fans including myself appreciate a mystery item video. Looking forward to part two. I have a feeling there are a lot of people right now scouring the Internet for information about this machine.
Mystery for sure!
Wes , I can think of no one else that could or would attempt to figure out the remote situation. This thing is nuts and I love it. Imagine what else you could make it do with all the hydraulic stuff that’s already in place. Or even put a seat on it and bypass all the remote stuff. Look forward to whatever you do to it. Thanks
ok great job, now hurry up and get to part two. I have followed this channel for several years now and absolutely love the projects that come through the shop. Keep up the amazing work, thanks for sharing.
*That thing is WILD!* 😧 What a cool find Wes, glad you had help from the sellers and your dad. I need to find some of those equipment skates you were using. Us viewers know it's in right hands, especially with the wiring and controls. Engine sounds healthy too 🙂👍 Would make a cool miniature armored "Marvin" dozer 😂
Those skates are very frustrating, but they can move some really heavy stuff!
@@WatchWesWork maybe time for a trailer mounted winch? You got it there in the end though which is all that counts. That 9-pin serial connector was really teasing me in the RX box. Probably reasonably easy to get the docs for the controller and might be able to download the configuration from it if not actually control it? Dunno. Super interesting find though!
The winch backing plate being capable of spinning may be for constant weight of pull. If the log starts rolling off a cliff and janks, the line may spool out to save equipment. Like a drag setting on a fishing reel or a deep sea winch on a boat that compensates for waves and cancels them out.
that hadn't occurred to me - thank you
Wes is in his element; a one off electro-mechanical machine with no ID and no inatruction manual or even parts list. Fabulous!
Awesome find Wes! Great to hear it run👍👍👍👍 Can’t wait to see this project going forward! Love it👍👍
In a heartbeat I would have done the same thing when I was younger ,You have the expertise to repair anything so there should be no hesitation and it makes for good video ,looks like a awesome toy ,You very well have a one off prototype of this machine . Wes it's hunting season lets do some, Wes Check with Matt from Diesel Creek he's worked on those German diesel engine before and Probably would know where to get parts .
No luck hunting so far this year. Dunno what is going on.
@@WatchWesWork If you're talking deer, I've hardly seen any on the Iowa side of the river this year. Maybe the wasting disease got into them.
your dad said the same thing I was thinking ... the guys that helped loading had a smile on their faces the entire time. A sign of good people with good upbringing and enjoying what they do.
Very cool Wes, thanks for sharing another great episode. Looking forward to seeing where this barn find takes you.
That thing is really sweet! I'm glad that I waited until the end to leave a comment, because you ended up finding out some of the backstory behind it. Hopefully you find out more! (like info regarding the remote setup, etc.) And I look forward to seeing you do some more work on it :)
Very excited for this series! Here in the Pacific North West while trail riding with our motorcycles we find old logging equipment that has been abandoned from time to time. Would love to see this thing up and working as intended.
I recently watched a jet engine video and the mechanic said most manufacturers use SAE primarily and some metric.
No most manufacturers in the modern civilized world use metric. SAE is dying a slow death and that's only because of the U.S.
I live in the PNW & can’t say I’ve ever found any old logging equipment, where do you find that at?? I mostly find old abandoned cars lol
@@HondaRedneck16 Wenatchee area, found an old skid steer up the colockum, also found an old abandoned steel line type crane up Blewett pass off the beaten pass. Lots and lots of trails and forest service roads here in this area.
@@j45acp69 ah, I’m on the other side of the pass. Not as many “open” areas over here, kinda limited to either Tahoya or capital Forrest these days.
This is the coolest toy ever. Nice buy Wes!
Hope we're getting another video on this! It's been years since last I stumbled upon a UA-cam channel I instantly fell in love with. You're clearly very knowledgeable about things like this, know how to wrench, storytelling is on point, man, this was an awesome 38 minutes of my life! Subbed and planning on binging some videos today 😆😁
Awesome! You're lucky to have found that and the machine is lucky Wes is the one to rescue it! Looking forward to more videos on this project and I'm confident you'll sort it.
My guess would be that the basic machine was repurposed to create a prototype. That could explain the two radio control systems. Omnex might be able to tell you by serial number who the controls were sold to and they can tell you what remote is required but you likely know that. I've had some experience with Hetronic remote controls used on service cranes. I installed a system on a scrap metal baler so it could be controlled from the material handler used to feed it. The handheld remote radio transmitter for a service crane cost almost $1,000 when it was left in the wrong place while they were changing hammers in the shredder.
This machine might have been too light to do what they were trying to build it for so it was abandoned.
It's not a question of need, it's a question of, well, it's a question! I love MrsWes' response. My wife would've just said "hell no"! Good to see all 3 generations on this pick. Kiddo is getting some great lessons here.
Just this one comment created a sub.
@@DanEBoyd Thanks Dan!
Thank you for this video - looking forward to the rest of season 1 and all of season 2. On a more personal note, cherish the time spent with your old man (even when it’s more mundane stuff) it’s priceless.
Wes, This is a great project. Thanks for bringing us along.
It seems to be the "Forest Crawler" by "Forest Robots LLC." Made in 2004 on a government grant by Dean Edwards of the University of Idaho.
There's an interview at caltech's site with a photo of exactly this skidder too. Pretty much confirmed. Search google with the following, including the quotes: "forest robots" skidder
"Zuckerburg's Personal Data Harvester"
Well said, lad,
well said.
Man this is the kind of content I was hoping for when you said your mechanic business might take a back seat to your UA-cam channel. Amazing and unique find. Can't wait to see what else you dig out of the Midwest in the future.
For Robots (or more like remote controlled machines) I found indeed that there are at least two more modern products on the market here in Europe, I found what is calles the Energreen Robo Max and the Pfanzelt Forstraupe Moritz. The first one can even be used with for example a Mulching head. Both are made by either German or Austrian companies. I would absolutely not wonder if they have more models up in scandinavia or maybe in France or elsewhere. Some Comapny named Scion Research seemed to have worked on something comparable down in New Zealand, that one seems to even have included a feller robot. It is quite a niche market, so there may be not as much information easy to find.
But the way that thing is build, it indeed seems to be some kind of home brew prototype or proof of concept.
Great video! I also was immediatly thinking of the pfanzelt Moritz though did not know energreen before.
Wes, Tell the wife we said Thanks for letting you buy it! And pat yourself on the back for getting that engine running! Definetly looking forward to the next episode!
It's a really cool machine! Thanks for sharing. I am looking forward to part 2.
What a great fun project.
You always astound me with the depth and breath of your knowledge.
Looking forward to more on this little baby!
Thanks
Dave
Wes, that’s a hunka hunka orange steel right there. I’ve seen similar apparatus down here in Texas used by mobile home movers to spot trailers in tight quarters
I'm just stabbing in the dark here but maybe a remote like they use with a concrete pumper would get this thing back in business. Can't wait to see where this goes! Thanks Wes!
I have been watching that ad for awhile now. Wishing I had something like that. I have lots of wood that I can't get to with normal equipment. I am so glad I can watch it come back to life.
You may not have a use for it, but getting it running sure is fun. Looking forward to seeing more of this unit.
Thanks for all the content, can't wait for more on this.
Love the Larson scanner effect in the control box. I couldn't have passed something like this up, either. What a neat critter.
holy crap.. cant believe that fork truck picked that up ... impressive
This is going to be a really fun project to watch. Hope you can source parts easily.
Looking forward to the remote creation.
Thanks for sharing.
I love how the channel is going Wes. You have me on the edge of my seat. It seams like the family is all in too!! Max was right on it as you unloaded it. No surprise it has mouse houses.
I am a little disappointed in Max. He should have pinpointed the location of the mouse village.
Two separate receivers with one being GPS makes sense in following waypoints repeatedly. Being able to send it "home" to drop logs and return to fresh trees would save your fingers by the end of the day.
Your Dad is one cool customer. Equipment falls off of the ramps? No sweat!
We were kind of expecting it.
One of the coolest videos on this channel yet and maybe the coolest small-ish piece of equipment I've ever seen.
We only regret the ones we don’t bring home
ITS ALIVE! The look on your face when the engine ran is priceless! This thing will be content for months!
Diesel creek mk2😂
I was genuinely shocked it actually ran and even idled.
@@WatchWesWork Wes, soon as you got it turlning over i knew it would eventually fire by the sound, been around diesels fare part of my working life and i guess got to know the sounds of good versus bad..
It sounded really smooth running. I think the engine is in good shape by sound, not counting the wiring, fuel hoses and filter.
Hey wes! This is awesome! I saw that unit on marketplace and thought I NEED THAT!
And you might still be able to have it...
😂😂
@@WatchWesWork😂😂😂😂😂🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
I can't help to think that this probably has some kind of safety shut down built into the control unit if the remote is out of range or not detected and that may be part of the reason why it won't run
I can’t wait to see more. You can make this thing work. One of your best challenges.
Wes,
the sheet metal stylizing/forming/fabrication, at the blade end, makes me think that the “base” unit is from some commercially built equipment…, but I am sure you have already made those observations.
The Hatts air cooled diesel engines are used quite a bit by the western (Oregon, Washington, Idaho) logging industry, on their “yarder carriage” units. These units fly above (on yarder cables) the fell logs are electronically remotely operated to retrieve the logs.
Look forward to the many videos in this series.
Thank you sir.
I didn’t think your forklift would have been big enough to lift that beast!! Looks like your Clark is the beast. 😉👍
That’s exactly what I figured. It was a prototype for Department of forestry or agriculture
Did it start out as part of a ditch witch? Or some other trenching machine.
I’ve been on two projects like this for the University of Alaska Fairbanks
In the late 1940s after World War II there was some small bulldozers made I think it was like 200 of them built and they would parachute them into a forest fire area and then the smoke jumpers would go in there and run them
It was a guy in Fairbanks that had one of these airdrop bulldozers running. He would run it in the parade on the size of that thing you have.
Interesting!
Excellent video Wes :) also your dad be interesting working with this one and cool machine never seen ever too! Looking forward more videos too soon watch on this one!
This is extremely exciting Wes. So looking forward to the following videos and the end result. Thanks for sharing, Deb
i have the manual. if you need any information. I assume that it has been hot, which is why the cover bolts have loosened. the shutdown solenoid works with oil pressure. there is a large traction coil that works at the same time as the starter's exciter. the running coil is smaller which keeps the oil pressure when energized. the engine shuts down slowly when the power goes out because the oil has to leave the solenoid.
Head bolt / nut torque 65NM
I just renewed the hoses myself. I cut the old hose off the connector and clamped the new hose on
@@JyrkiPokela Did you use regular rubber hose or the braided metal stuff?
Regular rubber hose. @@WatchWesWork
Wes, this was a GREAT video...! Fantastic stuff. Cheers from Canada...
Wes my friend, this is probably the coolest peice of machinery on UA-cam! I would so love to see more! I love watching you in "detective" mode. Your voice your thoughts and reasoning as your going along in a way that has me following closely and learning. Love the direction you're going with the channel! Cheers Mate!
Check it out , Ben found it in 14 minutes lol
really interessting vehicle, remote controlled crawlers like it have been in use for quite a while in Europe not only in Forestry but also for mulching and mowing very steep slopes and other difficult terrain and some other tool carrier applications.
Given the Pricetag they arent too common but far from unheard of at least here in Austria aswell as Switzerland, Germany and id imagine the rest of the Alps and Scandinavia.
Hope you get it up and running again Wes definitely gonna be an interessting project.
You had some great videos over the years but I think this one is one of your best. Looking forward to part 2.
Finally. Something with tracks again. Love it Wes
From what I know about PLCs, you may have a machine control and a safety control. You never want to have your safety devices as part of the machine control. In the event that the machine control fails, the safety system would still be functional. That could be critical for a robot, such as this. This might explain the duplicate controls.
I'm guessing that machine was built by Eaton in Canada. Omnex is now owned by them. Eaton may have the info you need for wiring and control. They may also be able to tell you why they abandoned this prototype and project.
That thing is sweet! Sure would be awesome to see it working again. Great video Wes!
Wes big fan of your channel. Your video editing has gotten a lot better over time and your content is always interesting even when you are just doing the routine stuff.
I found your channel back when you were fixing that old dozer. Been hooked ever since. Thanks for everything.
Curious what a guy will do with a logging robot though. 🧐
I would love to have that to drag trees dropped by winds and storms for fire wood!
So cool. Good Luck Wes. I eagerly await part 2.
Your dad is cool and that loading technic was sooooooooo sketchy, I loved it.
I bet Matt at Diesel Creek will want that once you get it operational. cool unit.
He already wants it!
Very interesting find Wes! Glad to see it run! That forklift has been a great investment for sure, now the skid loader as well! Great seeing your dad , but was worried a bit when he was standing on that wood. I noticed that when you had your bucket up on skid loader you had some scuffing on the auxiliary lines, I usually put used heater hoses to protect them from that. I’m sure that professor will give you some insight on that machine, it could have been a whole class project much similar to when colleges build prototype flying
machines in competition.Thanks also goes to the wife for agreeing to get the whole project going!
did some searching of this page and could not find a reference to whom/where" this professor your mentioning. care to enlighten us?
@@coachgeogo to 37:27 he states professor from Idaho might have info on unit. Guess you didn’t watch whole video friend.
@@Sherlock067 yep watched whole thing before posting.... then again was stop and go between making dinner.... so must have missed it.
@@coachgeo 👍✌️
The HF Daytona jack was the unsung hero of this video. Without it this video would never have got off the ground.
Zing!
Love this fun little video!!! Great job Wes!
It's fantastic to see you having FUN with a project! And that is one NEAT looking toy! Should be a great series! 👍👍
Every so often, a project finds the perfect person to complete it.
Insane. Great purchase. Big thanks to your better half for approval of this purchase!
0:45 I love how she says why not like she's given up saying no to your questions haha