Hi All,

I'm a new Arctic-Cat 500i manual owner, almost through break-in and am getting ready to skid some logs. I was wondering if anyone here has done this with their ATV? I've never done this so any tips/tricks would be appreciated. My biggest question is how to attach bigger logs - do I just attach with a big chain or make a more rigid hookup.

Thanks,
oag

 

I use my old 98 for this at the camp. We just use chains attached to the trailer hitch. I havent had an issue yet. Im sure there are better ways if you are doing it all day every day. We havent had to use anything but ole chains yet.

 

I haul logs with mine, mostly 8 foot lengths. I have dragged them with a chain, but they can hook up on roots and send you over the handlebars if you're not carefull. The best method is to build a skid. I took a 1 7/8" trailer hitch, welded it in a "A" pattern, then bolted that to an old truck hood. It's an old Ford, 50's I think. When I want to pull, I put the butts inside the hood, use a ratchet strap to hold them in and start skidding, never gets hung up and slides over obstacles easily. Easy to make with good results. Doesn't tip like an ATV trailer either.

 

We cut down trees when we go camping for firewood. We just hook a tow strap around them and throw the hook on the built in hitch. One trick if the logs arent too heavy is you can hook them to the rear rack instead. Be careful though, because it pulls the front end up a little. This works really well when there's alot of roots trying to grab the front of the log.

 

There are some companies that make products for skidding logs. I have seen a skidding cone, metal formed into a cone with a chain to hold the log. At a forestry show last year there was a 2 wheel dolly with a lever to lift heavy logs and suspend them. It had a spring on the hitch assembly for shock absorption and looked very stable. It would be just the ticket for large heavy logs. I don't have any websites though.
One trick I use is to skid by the top, and to shape the end into a point to reduce the chances of snagging.

 

Thanks for the info.

I plan to start small and "Junk yard" build something for bigger ones.

oag