Leaf vacuum

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Has anyone built a leaf vac?
Reply:Nope, but I have a craftsman lawn tractor with a bagger.  It works ok if the leaves & grass clippings are dry, if they're wet/damp-it sucks! Oh wait-it doesn't suck-this being the problem!  So I've been thinking of converting my lil lawn tractor trailer into a hopper for holding the clippings, and somehow converting my chute for the bagger to throw the clippings in the back!  Kinda like how a stalk chopper throws the stalks into the hopper behind it.  I am pretty sure the mower deck itself won't have enough power to throw it back-part of the problem when using the bagger.  But I am thinking of trying it this way first, then if/when I've proven it won't work, I am going to try to make a impeller assembly with a motor and see how that works!  I've looked at other brands of leave blowers/collectors.  I don't see how it can be too complicated for an experienced welder/fabricator/designer to come up with something!  If I ever get this project done, I'll be sure to let you know-complete with pics and info!
Reply:Originally Posted by woodyjdhNope, but I have a craftsman lawn tractor with a bagger.  It works ok if the leaves & grass clippings are dry, if they're wet/damp-it sucks! Oh wait-it doesn't suck-this being the problem!  So I've been thinking of converting my lil lawn tractor trailer into a hopper for holding the clippings, and somehow converting my chute for the bagger to throw the clippings in the back!  Kinda like how a stalk chopper throws the stalks into the hopper behind it.  I am pretty sure the mower deck itself won't have enough power to throw it back-part of the problem when using the bagger.  But I am thinking of trying it this way first, then if/when I've proven it won't work, I am going to try to make a impeller assembly with a motor and see how that works!  I've looked at other brands of leave blowers/collectors.  I don't see how it can be too complicated for an experienced welder/fabricator/designer to come up with something!  If I ever get this project done, I'll be sure to let you know-complete with pics and info!
Reply:My little gas powered blower/vac has plenty of power, but it needs a much bigger collector.  And if it's bigger I don't want to carry it.I can't seem to find any tubing to work between it and a collector.But the gas powered unit maybe a start for your project.
Reply:Originally Posted by WeldordieThanks for the reply...I've got a Snapper riding mower with a rear bagger that has a "high vac" blade.  It does a great job of sucking up grass and leaves, but when challenged with picking up crab apples, the deck cavity becomes clogged with apple sludge, and stalls the engine.