How to build my billy cart?

[MarioRP]

Im am trying to build a billy cart, it doesn't need to be anything special just functional. I was wondering for this kind of vechile what the best axel and wheels would be to use as well as the best kind of wood. Also if anyone knows how to make a reliable break system, that would be ever so apreciated. Im a bit stuck and new to this kind of stuff and and any advice would be apreciated.

[EricL]

Hello @MarioRP 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about building a billy cart.

I suggest having a look at these discussions:

• Billy cart based on 1950s car by @SRBENET 
   
• Billy cart build by @michael84 
   
• Billycart for my son by @cflanders72 

Here is a handy step-by-step guide:  How To Build A Billy Cart DIY At Bunnings 

The discussions I've linked to and the guide I've shown should give you a very good idea of how to build a billy cart. Back then the most reliable form of breaks were a pair of Chuck Taylors and strong legs. The old "double sticks" at the sides of the cart were very reliable, but these days if you are lucky and happen to find a second-hand bike during the curb side pickup you can use the wheels and caliper breaks for your project.        

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @Nailbag, @SRBENET and @Noyade for their thoughts on how the billy cart should be built.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Dave-1 · Accepted solution]

Good Morning @MarioRP 

Ive built a few Billy carts when I was younger. The link that @EricL has mentioned Billy cart build and the video plus dimensions that @MitchellMc supplied is very close to what I would generally end up with.

Mostly I start with a Long T type thought with a bolt through the middle of the "T" the short part of the T is down the end of the long piece of timber. This is for the wheels and feet to rest on with your bottom on the other end of the long piece.

You can add to the long end a seat construction which will also help with the rear wheel fixing point. I have modified a milk crate that I have come across (Cut out one side) and then filed it smooth for the seat. 

A brake is a little harder, a lever (40mm by 40mm piece of timber, maybe 500mm long) that is screwed to above the rear wheel  with one srew so you can force the timber against the wheel itself to slow down via friction or take it off to run smoothly. It is long enough to grab and pull forward so friction slows the tyre. It never really lasts without a lot of modifications as it has a lot of pressure applied to it

Some rope that is attached to either side of the short crossbar of the T, this is for steering. I generally knotted the far side and the top side so the rope wouldnt slid eback through the drilled holes.

Dave

[MarioRP]

Thanks a lot Dave! Really appreciate the help and support on this project!

[EricL]

Hello @MarioRP 

I propose doing a sketch of the billy cart itself to give you an idea of dimensions and parts that you'll be needing to assemble it. How big and heavy is the rider? This will also play a factor in your cart plans. Once you have your plan finalized why not share it with the community and any questions you might have about its assembly. 

Eric