Sperry Rand Tricart

[wildman]

Tricart progress update

Ok… finally back on this project after some time away from it. Paint is complete and most of the running gear is reassembled. At least I can roll it around to work on now. Still need to install engine, seat, handlebar and control cables. Engine and handle bar are ready. I still need to do a little fiberglass repair on the seat pan and still need a seat cushion to use as pattern. At this point I would settle for some close-up detail photos of an original cushion… anyone? Also not sure if I have a usable brake cable or not. I may need to go to custom jobber.

[Joe M]

Looking Good!!!!

[Amphiman1]

cables?

Ok… finally back on this project after some time away from it. Paint is complete and most of the running gear is reassembled. At least I can roll it around to work on now. Still need to install engine, seat, handlebar and control cables. Engine and handle bar are ready. I still need to do a little fiberglass repair on the seat pan and still need a seat cushion to use as pattern. At this point I would settle for some close-up detail photos of an original cushion… anyone? Also not sure if I have a usable brake cable or not. I may need to go to custom jobber.

try bell bicycle cable replacement kit from kmart or walmart, they do work well 6.98......can't beat that? new cable like that one 35.00+
they lasrt a few years , and you get extra cables too up to 8'

[Mike]

Very nice work. Thanks for the update and the pictures!

[LarryW]

Very clean work!!! Well done, good job.

[teeksoffroad]

I live in MA and also have a TriCart. It was an eBay purchase in 2001. I had it shipped to me from OH. I have 4 extra rear wheels, 1 extra front, axles, front ends and a seat cushion. I also have most every piece of literature made for the Sperry Rand Tricart and the other machines. Original dealer letters to customers, both color brochures 2 owner's manuals and I even talked to the man who invented it about 5yrs ago. I should be able to help you out with your wheel and seat cushion needs. The seat cushion is ripped. It's the only one I have ever seen. About 3yrs ago there was a TriCart on eBay in NY with the cushion. I offered to buy just the cushion but he wouldn't sell. After the auction ended when it didn't sell I sent him another offer of $60 and he took it. Bought it so I could have one made but haven't done it yet. I dug mine out today and worked on it a little. Hooked up the rear brakes and bars. It had camo paint on it when I got it and I cleaned all that off and the only other thing I have done is get the wheels painted. I will get the body painted some day. It's just a roller. the original engine was missing when I got it. There was a 4hp Briggs in it but it came with the exhaust from the JLO engine. I sold that because I am going to put a 8hp Briggs in it. That was also an engine option. Mine is the earlier model with the stirrups instead of the foot treads. I collect minibikes so that's why I have never finished this but don't plan to sell.

[wildman]

teeks,

Welcome aboard. Check your PMs.

wildman

[wildman]

Tricart project

Progress continues on the Tricart. It's mostly together now but I still need to work on a few details. Thanks to new member teeksoffroad, I have a handle on a few of the missing items, including seat cushion. I need to do a final buff on the paint before I install the decals, still working on a brake cable. I've had the engine running in the unit, but belt is dragging slightly on the engine shaft and spinning the jackshaft. I can stop jackhaft from turning with my hand, but not sure if I should be looking for a slighly longer belt or not. I don't want this thing taking off across my yard when I hook up the chain.

I added some photos to my Tricart album. http://www.6x6world.com/gallery/showgallery.php?cat=706
including this one of wildboy modeling a vintage SPD jacket. (He wasn't crazy about me taking this photo.)

[Mike]

How can wildboy not be smiling while wearing an SPD jacket sitting on a brand new Tricart?

Great job by the way!

[wildman]

How can wildboy not be smiling while wearing an SPD jacket sitting on a brand new Tricart?

Great job by the way!

Believe it or not, there's a smile under there. He's desperately wanting to take this thing for a spin. He just doesn't understand my enthusiasm for the vintage jacket thing... neither does Mrs. wildman. Exactly like comments on member Mario's magazine photo... http://www.6x6world.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=274

Magazine, $3.99 on eBay.
Shipping, $5.50.
Listening to the wife complain about spending $9.49 on a 37 year old magazine, Priceless!

[Mike]

Too true.

Be sure to get some video of your first outing when you get ready to fire it up.

[wildman]

Will do. Hopefully there will be no video of the unmanned Tricart crashing into a tree on it's maiden voyage, if I don't get the belt length right.

[wildman]

Ok, it's been a long time coming but the Tricart moves and STOPS now. This trike has been essentially complete since November, but I got hung up with the brake cable. I tried a couple of off-shelf substitutes, but ended up springing for a full custom-made cable ($46 + shipping). I found a great source if somebody needs a special cable. I'm still waiting for my custom-made seat cushion which should be the finishing touch. I understand now that the seat cushion is a vital part of the suspension and vibration isolation.

Enjoy these videos of wildboy and the maiden runs.

[jpswift1]

Great work......it looks brand new! Thanks for posting those videos and props to you on that excellent restoration.

[LarryW]

That is sooo cool! You did an awesome job on that thing. Nice work.

I wish they made tires like that still!