BX2816 Linear Actuator Mod

[hockeystewey]

Hey guys, I am looking to add the linear actuator to my bx2816 snow blower deflector. I am looking to use the brackets on the back of the chute, has anybody done this yet? I am unsure as to what size actuator I actually need. Do I measure the space between the two brackets for mounting length and then figure out the stroke..which seems to be 4" from what I am seeing in the forum. Does anyone have a link to an actuator they actually used? that would be great.....

thanks!!!!

 

[Lil Foot]

Never done the mod, don't even have a snowblower, but these guys have a great selection of linear actuators, bought two from them myself.

Linear Actuators | www.surpluscenter.com

Linear Actuators,DC Linear Actuators,Linear Actuator Accessories,AC Linear Actuators

www.surpluscenter.com

 

[PaulR]

I think I have this exact factory setup, but I'm at work now.
I'll try to remember to take pics and measurements when I get home for you.
P

 

[Jmsossi]

I installed a linear actuator on my bx2380 HD snowblower . I purchased it from surplus center item # 5-1845-6 it has a 6” stroke , it works great.

 

[GreensvilleJay]

There's 3 'specs'' for linear actuators, 1 -stroke( how far it goes out, 2 -speed, usually 'inches per second',3-force
#1 is easy to figure out,just measure the 'pivot point' ,fully down and fully up.
#2 FASTER is better, usually at a cost thought
#3 More is better, but not in this case.

Providing #1 is met, a FASTER LA is better than a POWERFUL one.
Usually faster ones have less power, slower ones more torque

 

[Jmsossi]

I like to slower model better, easier to control find the faster speed to touchy a mater of preference

 

[PaulR]

jmsossi that garage floor is way too clean.

 

[PaulR]

jmsossi that garage floor is way too clean.

factory/dealer installed actuator.

 

[RBA50]

I disagree about the force issue. I first used an actuator rated at about 225 lbs. The very first time I used it, the force of the snow hitting the deflector blew the actuator apart. Something snapped and the deflector just flopped loose. I had to replace the manual knobs so i could lock it in place again. I replaced it with one rated for 1000 lbs, (a little slower,) and have used it twice this year in fairly heavy snow with no problem. The force an actuator can exert is also a measure of how much force it can resist.

 

[thebicman]

Have a BX2755HD blower and installed a 4" 270 lbs actuator on the side of the chute. Three years and works perfect. Very easy mod and so much cheaper then the factory one, $69.00 for the actuator and $22.00 for the momentary reverse switch.

 

[Thunder chicken]

‘CAD’ cardboard aided design.
Figure out the best location and height of your brackets, based on the stroke of the actuator you would like to use.
I cobbled up something for my old blower that had no deflector. 6-8” of stroke is likely enough and can be ‘adjusted’ by changing the height of the holes on the brackets (unless you already have brackets)
This little hydraulic cylinder has no problems holding the force of the snow from the 90” wide blower.

 

[Justasquid]

I bought a cheap one on eBay. Was like 30 dollars. It was a 700lb 6 inch stroke. It takes about 4 seconds to go from full low to high travel positions.as said, the higher the load capacity, the slower it will travel. I also bought a momentary switch as well. I actually used the power from my cigarette light plug and it works great. I did this just to try it out and I actually liked it so much, I just kept it that way. Extremely easy to hook up. I also wired automotive quick disconnects on the ends so it’s even easier to hook up. Only has a 1.5 amp draw At full load.
it worked great all winter, although it was short winter.