Carts

This article is an excerpt from Peter Rooke’s Gas Engine Restoration that describes the manufacture of wood carts for engines, although anyone with metal working skills will be able to adapt the principles to their own requirements. The construction of a cart is fairly standard as there are generally two longitudinal spars with two or more cross members. Occasionally you will find original engines mounted just on two planks of wood. Originally the cart was little more than a skid with the option to add wheels.

Normally there are plenty of photographs and information available on style and dimensions of carts, so this article will cover some methods to build them. Before starting, have a clear idea of the length and width of the cart and the position that the engine will take on it. Identify where the engine mounting bolts will be so the timber at that point will be substantial enough. Take care to ensure that no joints