Next mod to the snowblower chute / deflector conversion

[ctfjr]

After using the new electric chute and deflector a few times I've decided the switches I installed aren't up to the task. Even with gloves on instead of mittens its just too clumsy to operate efficiently.
So after some research I just received this:

There is plenty of room for the switch section below the plate and I'm sure the joystick will be easier to operate. After connecting the wires to the switch I'm going to really seal it from the elements. Because of the switch action in each direction I am going to have use two banks of 4 miniature relays to apply voltage and reverse the polarity to the chute motor and deflector actuator. There is plenty of room on the inside of the fender to mount a waterproof box.

There is one issue perhaps someone could help me with. I would like to remove that 'guide plate' to do my fabricating. Without resorting to serious (and perhaps destructive) force how does one remove this rubber cap on the lever?

 

[GreensvilleJay]

pull it off, hard....
it's just a tight slide on fit.
at least al but one on my BX23S are.

 

[torch]

I did the joystick with 4 relays on mine. Works well even with mitts. But I installed everything into a couple of back-to-back project boxes.

 

[bird dogger]

You should be able to soften that plastic cap up with careful use of a hot air gun. Then pull it off. It works pretty well.

 

[ctfjr]

I did the joystick with 4 relays on mine. Works well even with mitts. But I installed everything into a couple of back-to-back project boxes.
. . .

Excellent work Torch. The ease of use is exactly why I'm doing this. I can operate my existing switches with gloves on, its just a pia because of the extra finger material of the glove to hold down without slipping off.

I opted for some Aliexpress products including that joystick. These are the relays I'm using:

Rated 10A and only $4 incl shipping from China. Tough to beat.

Initially when I thought about doing this I was concerned it would be a rat's nest of wires. Not so tho. 5 wires from the joystick (1 common, 4 switched) and a pair each going to the chute motor and deflector actuator. All the wiring connections done inside the box for the relays.
They do have 1 long 8 relay board but I opted for 2 4 relay units.

 

[ctfjr]

You should be able to soften that plastic cap up with careful use of a hot air gun. Then pull it off. It works pretty well.

Thanks BD! I have a heat shrink gun and will give it a shot.

Yesterday I tried working it back and forth while pulling it out and was sure I was about to rip it apart. I'm sure Kubota has replacements available at un reasonable prices.

 

[Showmedata]

hey @ctfjr could you say more about the actuators you're using? I'm going to pick up a used 3pt blower and am thinking about going electric actuation. Thanks.

 

[Showmedata]

@ctfjr never mind, I just found the build thread further down in my search results. Nice job.

 

[radas]

When you attach the top of the lever again, Honda makes a grip glue for their snowblowers/power sports that you can use for a nice glue assisted friction fit. Looking forward to seeing progress on the joystick build. My Honda HSS1332ATD has a chute joystick and I couldn't live without it.

 

[ctfjr]

Yes joystick replacement of the 2 switches is done. A pleasure to operate now

No relays required 2 power wires in, 2 pairs of wires feeding the chute motor and deflector actuator

then sealed it before install

 

[torch]

As long as the switch contacts are rated for the motor currents required, osunds like a good setup. Less complicated.