FAQ

frequently asked questions

Are any tools required to assemble Wheeled Hand Tool Systems?

No tools are needed.  Stainless steel detent pins, that just push in or pull out, hold most components in place.  The axle and wheel(s) are secured by 2 lynch pins that slide into holes at each end of the axle then are secured by flipping down the locking ring.  Handles and hitches as well as the back mesh for the firewood hauler and firewood hauling trailer are secured by bolts with wing nuts that are tightened and loosen with your fingers.

How  much do Wheeled Hand Tool Systems weigh?

The weight of a WHaTS depends on its configuration.  If you look under COMPONENT SPECIFICATIONS you can find the weight of each component.  WHaTS are rugged, so they weigh more than most wheelbarrows and garden carts.  WHaTS  good balance, unique versatility, low load height, and durability more than compensate for the extra weight.  Pushing up hill is when weight is most noticeable, but a design that accommodates the efficient attachment of inexpensive towing straps to the front allows one or two additional people to assist in easily moving loads more than 2 or 3 times greater than a single person can push.

What are the load capacities of Wheeled Hand Tool Systems?

Each flat proof wheel has a maximum load rating of 480 lbs (218 kg) at walking speed.  Even when 3 wheels are used,  the other components are designed for more than the combined maximum wheel load rating of 1440 lbs (654 kg)!

Does the low frame and load height create any ground clearance problems?

No. The high handles keep the WHaTS frame pretty much parallel to the ground, so the front doesn't tip up and catch when you are pushing.  In addition the puller front, which is often used as a front load retainer for the Firewood Hauler and the Firewood Hauling Trailer, is made from smoothly curved pipe that is unlikely to catch on the ground even if it did make contact.  Also there are no leg stands protruding down in the rear that can catch or bend. The actual front clearance is the same as a common wheelbarrow and the rear clearance is actually a little higher than legs of a common wheelbarrow.

Why are the frame sockets square while the handles, hitch and tool accessories are made from round pipe?

Sliding round structural pipe components into square receiver sockets allows relatively close fitting components to be readily inserted and removed without the risk of seizing or binding.  In addition the flat surfaces of the square frame tubing provide easy mounting for accessories while strong, nicely curved components can be efficiently formed by bending structural pipe.

How does the high rise handle design affect load handling?

The high rise handles allow the frame and the load to ride low and parallel to the ground providing excellent stability, yet you can maintain a comfortable posture while pushing.  Also when you lean into a load to really push, the force seems to transfer better into rolling, since it is directed parallel with the ground rather than at the somewhat downward angle common with conventional wheelbarrow designs.

Why is it difficult to find your phone number? 

We encourage email communication rather than phone calls so that work flow is not interrupted and thoughtful responses can be provided by email.  We really do like to talk, and that is a problem when we are striving to be productive.  It is best to use the CONTACT US form on this site.  If you would like a phone call, please indicate the best times to call.