The Toolbox Assistive Technology Database logo

Back   |   Search   |   View by Category   |   Technical Articles
Air-Operated Clutch
Air-Operated Clutch

To make it easier to start and stop his John Deere 4430 tractor, Shawboro, NC, farmer Harvey Roberts developed an Air-Operated Clutch, using a pneumatic cylinder with an 8-inch stroke to actuate the clutch pedal. He fabricated two brackets that support both ends of the cylinder while allowing them to pivot. One of the brackets is clamped onto the clutch pedal, and the other is bolted to the frame of the tractor. Mounted above the tractor's toolbox are a 5-gallon air storage tank and a 12-volt air compressor to supply air pressure to the cylinder. An easy-to-reach, three-way, hand/foot-operated valve controls the air-flow. The components are all connected by air lines to create a filtered, closed-loop system.

Estimated Cost Cost range: See below

Limitations Limitations Addressed by Product: Lower extremity


SourceW. Harvey Roberts
W. Harvey Roberts
489 North Indiantown Road
Hatboro, NC, 27973
Phone252-336-4793
Est. Cost$350
Last updated: Feb 10, 2017


Back   |   Search   |   View by Category   |   Technical Articles