Hand-Operated Clutch/Brake
To operate his Simplicity-brand lawn mower, Erick Metzger of Columbus, OH, made a Hand-Operated Clutch/Brake Lever from steel pipe with a 90-degree elbow so it extends directly toward him. The lever fits down inside a piece of 1-inch tubing secured with two “U” bolts to the mower’s shank pedal. This allows the pedal to be either foot-operated or hand-operated. To disengage the clutch and activate the brake, Metzger simply pushes the lever forward; to re-engage the clutch, he releases it.
Cost:
Limitations Addressed: Strength/endurance, Upper extremity
Caution: A lever constructed in this manner should have any exposed ends covered with rubber or plastic caps to avoid injury in case of sudden stops or accidental contact.