Agrigear custom wide wheels transform digger for boggy ground operations
Agrigear has shared how it used its precision engineering and BKT tyre expertise to transform a standard digger into a field-ready powerhouse.
A local contractor approached Agrigear with a specific challenge: their Hidromek digger needed to work efficiently on boggy ground for utility pole installations. The machine’s standard factory wheels were adequate for general construction work but completely unsuitable for soft, waterlogged terrain where conventional equipment would sink or cause excessive ground disturbance.
The contractor needed a solution that would allow the digger to “float” on soft ground while maintaining the stability and performance required for precision work like ESB pole installations.
Agrigear says its approach to this challenge showcased its comprehensive custom engineering capabilities, combining in-house fabrication with expert tyre selection.
Its engineering team designed and fabricated custom wide wheels specifically for this application. The process began with careful analysis of the machine’s specifications, load requirements, and the intended operating conditions.
Working in its fully equipped workshop, Agrigear’s skilled technicians created sample wheel rims to exact specifications. This initial fabrication phase focused on ensuring proper fitment while maximising the rim’s width for optimal flotation characteristics.
Before final production, comprehensive testing ensured perfect integration with the existing machine systems. The sample rims were fitted with the selected BKT tyres and thoroughly tested to verify proper clearances and confirm that no interference would occur during operation.
Agrigear says this meticulous testing phase prevents costly issues and ensures optimal performance from the first day of operation
Once testing confirmed proper fitment, the rims underwent professional finishing in Agrigear’s workshop. This included finishing welding to ensure structural integrity and professional spray booth painting for both appearance and long-term protection against the harsh conditions of field operations.
The success of this modification relied heavily on selecting the right BKT tyres for the specific application:
Rear Tyres: BKT Agrimax Force IF710x55x28
These IF technology tyres provide the perfect combination of load capacity and traction needed for the digger’s primary functions while offering the flexibility required for soft ground operations. IF tyres will carry 20 per cent heavier loads in comparison to identical-sized standard radial tyres.
Front Tyres: BKT Flotation TR-678 650x40x22.5
Specifically chosen for their superior flotation characteristics, these tyres distribute the machine’s weight over a larger contact area, significantly reducing ground pressure and preventing the machine from sinking into soft terrain.
The modified digger’s first real-world test came during utility pole installation work on challenging boggy ground. Agrigear says the results exceeded expectations, with the machine demonstrating exceptional ability to work efficiently on terrain that would have been impossible with standard equipment.
The wide wheels and specialised BKT tyres allowed the digger to maintain stability and precision while floating on soft ground, enabling the contractor to complete work that would otherwise require specialised tracked equipment or extensive ground preparation.
Whether you’re dealing with soft ground conditions, specialised load requirements, or unique operational challenges, Agrigear has the expertise and facilities to develop custom solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Contact Agrigear at 042-9666444 or visit www.agrigear.ie.