MANURE SPREADERS 2OT 



The return motion is usually independent of the for- 

 ward motion, a safety device being arranged to prevent 

 both forward and return motions being put in gear at 

 the same time. In the early machines the apron was re- 

 turned by hand, but now power is universally used. A 

 crank is sometimes provided by which the apron may be 

 returned by hand if desired. The endless apron, of 

 course, requires no return motion. 



273. Wheels. At the present time there is some dis- 

 cussion in regard to the merits of wood and metal wheels 

 for manure spreaders. The large cast hub needed to 

 carry the driving pawls or the main ratchet is favorable 

 to the use of a wood wheel. This type of wheel has 

 been displaced on practically all other implements, and 

 it is safe to venture an opinion that it will be displaced 

 in time on the manure spreader. Wide tires of 5 or 6 

 inches are essential on the manure spreader. In order to 

 secure greater traction the wheels must often be provided 

 with grouters or traction bands. The traction band may 

 be removed when not needed, permitting the spreader to 

 travel more smoothly over hard ground. 



274. Trucks. As now constructed, the manure spreader 

 has a low front truck arranged to turn under the bed. 

 A low truck offers an advantage in loading, but un- 

 doubtedly is of heavier draft. A narrow front truck pre- 

 vents a lashing of the neck yoke in passing over uneven 

 ground. 



275. The frame of a manure spreader must be con- 

 structed of good material, and should also be well braced 

 and trussed with iron rods. Not only must the material 

 be strong, but also able to resist the rotting action of 

 the manure. 



276. Simplicity. It is desirable that the manure 

 spreader as well as other machines shall be as simple as 



