Some of my preferred implements extend beyond the confines of a toolbox or the surface area of a workbench. Subcompact tractors, renowned for their versatility, serve as indispensable workhorses for landowners. However, for those managing extensive acreage, the inclusion of a utility vehicle, and perhaps even a brush cutter, in their toolshed merits consideration. This discourse aims to provide essential insights into the realm of utility vehicles.

Utility Vehicles Possessing

capabilities akin to small pickups but accompanied by a considerably higher enjoyment quotient, utility vehicles (UTVs) are experiencing a surge in popularity among landowners across the nation. One could liken them to matured versions of four-wheel ATVs.

Utility vehicles boast the capacity to transport up to six passengers while concurrently facilitating a myriad of work-related tasks. Admittedly, their larger size renders them more challenging to store and tow compared to compact ATVs. Nevertheless, for individuals overseeing expansive land holdings, the acquisition of a UTV proves to be a venture worthwhile.

Drawing upon my extensive experience in assessing various UTV models, I recently incorporated a Polaris Ranger 570 NorthStar into our greenhouse project. The ensuing narrative elucidates the insights gleaned from this experience.

If you possess the skills to operate a car or truck, navigating a UTV should present no challenge. UTVs excel on the ease-of-use spectrum, equipped with features such as power steering, gas and brake pedals, automatic transmission, and seat belts, mirroring the controls of a standard truck.

While mastering the response characteristics of a UTV’s belt-drive continuously variable transmission (CVT) may require some time, understanding nuances such as the engagement point (the degree of foot pedal movement required for the vehicle to initiate motion) is a skill that develops with experience.

The advantages of a CVT are noteworthy—automatic adaptation to optimal gear ranges for diverse situations, coupled with the flexibility for performance enhancements using aftermarket components, thanks to the straightforward belt-and-pulley design. The driver can effortlessly toggle between high and low-range gearing, in addition to engaging reverse.

It’s worth noting that not all UTVs utilize a belt-drive CVT. The Honda Pioneer 1000 UTV, for instance, is equipped with a distinctive six-speed automatic dual-clutch transmission that offers a manual paddle-shift option. This transmission, while resistant to slipping in muddy or wet conditions compared to a belt drive, is mechanically more intricate. On the other hand, Kubota UTVs, consistent with the company’s compact tractors, adopt a hydrostatic transmission.

In the initial stages of our greenhouse construction project, the Polaris Ranger 570 NorthStar proved its utility by efficiently loading the cargo bed with gravel for our foundation. Notably, this UTV boasts a cargo-carrying capacity of up to 500 lbs., facilitated by the bed’s gas-assist lift mechanism, ensuring effortless unloading.

Benefiting from a compact wheelbase and an impressive turning radius, the vehicle facilitated the easy transportation of tools, lumber, and materials to the work site. A noteworthy feature that I particularly appreciate is the TurfMode rear differential, which, with a simple button press, enables the unlocking of the rear differential, transforming the UTV into a one-wheel-drive configuration. This feature proves invaluable when traversing delicate areas where the use of aggressive tires could cause undesired disruption.

The Polaris Ranger 570 is propelled by a fuel-injected four-stroke gas engine, generating a reported 44 horsepower (hp). While UTVs with more robust engines are readily available and may be preferable for tasks such as towing a boat and trailer or navigating mountainous terrain with a work crew, it’s worth noting that manufacturers like Bobcat, Kubota, Kawasaki, and John Deere also offer diesel-powered UTVs—an attractive option for owners of diesel tractors or other equipment. Additionally, Polaris has recently introduced the industry’s inaugural electric UTV, although it was not in production at the time of this evaluation.

The true value of a UTV becomes apparent when navigating challenging terrains. This UTV, along with many of its counterparts, features standard on-demand all-wheel drive. Bolstered by 11 inches of ground clearance and a four-wheel independent suspension, the Ranger confidently traverses rugged landscapes. Whether engaged in fence work, accessing a tractor in the field, or reaching remote locations, a UTV stands out as an ideal choice. Moreover, it offers the familiar conveniences of an on-road pickup, including passenger seats, power steering, a cab enclosure, and more, all adapted for off-road settings.

For those seeking unparalleled off-road capabilities, the Can-Am Defender with six wheels, an 82-hp V-twin engine, six-wheel drive, and a locking differential warrants consideration. UTVs, especially those measuring 60 inches in width or less, are well-suited for public-access off-road trails, with legal road access in many states, contingent upon local regulations.

Customization plays a pivotal role in tailoring your UTV to meet specific needs. Accessories such as winches, cab enclosures with windows and windshield wipers—found on this Polaris Ranger 570 NorthStar—are available as add-ons for various UTV models. While many accessories cater to recreational users, such as rifle cases for hunters or specialized tires and engine-performance kits for sport riders, numerous options enhance utility for work-related tasks. Light bars, utility light choices, snowplows, powered snow blowers, heavy-duty bumper kits, brush guards, cargo racks, and tool holders expand the functionality of UTVs, facilitating tasks ranging from towing log splitters or chippers to maintaining turf-covered acreage with pull-behind mowers or leaf vacs.

DR Power Brush Cutter

During the construction of our Getaway cabin last summer, we encountered a common challenge faced by many landowners—dealing with overgrown brush that exceeded the capacity of a lawn mower yet was too small for a chainsaw. The extent of the task necessitated the utilization of the Pro Max34 DR Power Brush Cutter.

Fueled by a Briggs & Stratton engine featuring an electric start, the Pro Max34 boasts the appearance of an enlarged lawn mower. This walk-behind unit is equipped with straightforward handlebar controls for engaging the cutting blades and activating the self-propulsion drive system.

The targeted area for clearance predominantly comprised weeds and saplings. The Pro Max34 is designed to cut weeds and brush up to eight feet in height and saplings with a thickness of up to three inches. While our weed growth did not reach such heights, we did put the machine to the test with saplings on the larger end of the spectrum. The Pro Max34, equipped with a single cutting blade, effortlessly sliced through our vegetation. Its two 18-inch tires smoothly navigated over roots and stumps, aided by the mower deck’s seamless glide on steel rails.

For individuals faced with the challenge of eliminating weeds and unruly growth, a brush cutter such as the Pro Max34 may prove to be a suitable solution.

Learn how to troubleshoot and repair various components of your toilet, including flappers, fill valves, flush valves, and handles.

Introduction

Toilets are equipped with moving parts, and over time, these components can wear out or malfunction. If you’re dealing with a running toilet that won’t stop, it’s worthwhile to address or replace key toilet parts. In this guide, we provide insights into repairing or replacing essential toilet tank components. While the interior of your toilet and its parts may not appear pristine, with surfaces marked by scum, water stains, and corrosion, rest assured that the water within is as clean as what flows from your faucets.

Tools Required:

• 4-in-1 screwdriver
• Adjustable wrench
• Bucket
• Locking pliers
• Pliers
• Shop vacuum
• Tape measure

Materials Required:

• Fill valve
• Flapper
• Toilet handle and retaining nut
• Valve washer

Identifying the issue with a running toilet is typically straightforward. A toilet may run continuously if the fill valve, responsible for allowing water into the tank, fails to close entirely. On the other hand, intermittent running may occur when the flapper valve opens slightly for a few minutes. In both scenarios, it is essential to diagnose why the fill valve is not halting the water flow and whether any damaged toilet parts require attention.

Step 1: Look for Leaks

Examine the toilet for leaks around the tank bolts or toilet flush valve. If leaks are present, it is likely necessary to remove the toilet tank from the bowl for the replacement of tank bolts, rubber washers, and gaskets on the flush valve. Tighten the locknut if leaks are observed around the fill valve. Cracks in the tank can also be a source of leaks, requiring the installation of a new toilet for a reliable solution.

Step 2: If No Leaks Are Found, Lift Off the Tank Cover

The main components of a toilet tank are the flush valve, responsible for water release during flushing, and the fill valve, facilitating tank refilling after flushing. When a toilet runs continuously or intermittently, one of these valves is usually the culprit. Examine the overflow tube to determine which valve is causing the issue. If water overflows into the tube, there’s likely an issue with the toilet fill valve. If the water level is below the tube’s top, the flush valve may be leaking, allowing water to trickle into the bowl and preventing the fill valve from closing completely.

Step 3: Adjust the Float

If your flapper valve features a ball that floats at the end of a rod, gently lift the rod and listen for the water shutting off. Adjusting the float may help stop the continuous running. To achieve this, gently bend the float arm downward to apply extra pressure on the toilet valve. For floats without an arm, refer to Step 14, “Adjust the Float” below. Flush the toilet to assess if the adjustment resolves the issue. Some fill toilet valves have a float adjustment screw on top (refer to the image below). If there is no adjustment screw, bend the float arm. For Fluidmaster-style fill valves, ensure proper adjustment without the need to empty the tank.

Step 4: Take Off the Fill Valve Cap

Remove the fill valve cap by pressing down and turning counterclockwise for this specific type of toilet valve. If dealing with other valve types, remove screws as necessary.

Step 5: Flush the Valve with Water

Cover the flapper valve with your hand, turn on the water cautiously to avoid splashing, and let it flush out the toilet valve for a few seconds.

Step 6: Replace the Washer

Upon removing the cap to flush out the valve, carefully inspect the washer for wear or cracks. If the washer is worn or cracked, replace it by prying the old washer out of the cap with a small screwdriver and pressing the new one into place. While replacing a damaged washer is cost-effective and straightforward, identifying the correct washer may pose a challenge. Common washers are typically available at home centers and hardware stores. It’s worth noting that professional plumbers often opt to replace the entire fill valve instead of searching for a specific washer.

Step 7: To Replace the Fill Valve, Start by Removing the Water from the Tank

• Turn off the water at the shutoff valve.
• Flush the toilet and hold the flush valve open to drain the tank.
• Sponge out the remaining water or vacuum it up with a wet/dry vacuum.

If you don’t have a shutoff valve, turn off the water supply at the main shutoff valve where water enters your home. This presents an opportune time to install a shutoff valve next to the toilet or replace a leaking one. It’s also an ideal moment to upgrade the supply line feeding your toilet.

Step 8: Remove the Coupling Nut

Unscrew the coupling nut that connects the supply line, ensuring that the toilet valve is held in place inside the tank to prevent it from turning. For added stability, use a locking pliers to secure the base of the toilet valve. It’s advisable to place a towel on the floor underneath to catch any water that may drain from the line.

Step 9: Remove the Old Flapper Valve

Remove the locknut securing the toilet valve to the tank. While unscrewing the nut, gently push down on the valve, then pull out the old valve.

Step 10: Measure the Overflow Tube

Measure the height of the overflow tube, taking the measurement to the top of the tube and not to any water level label on the tube.

Step 11: Twist the Top of the New Valve to Adjust the Height

Adjust the height of the new fill valve by holding the base and twisting the top. The distance from the base to the CL (critical level) mark should equal the height of the overflow tube plus one inch.

Step 12: Install the New Fill Valve

Remove the cap, press down to compress the washer, and screw on the locknut. Reconnect the supply line, flush the valve, and ensure there are no leaks. Finally, reset the cap in place.

Step 13: Cut the Fill Tube to Fit the Angle Adapter

Slide the fill tube onto the fill valve, attaching the angle adapter onto the overflow tube. Adjust the tube to the appropriate length, then affix it onto the angle adapter.

Step 14: Adjust the Float

Turn on the water to fill the toilet tank. Pinch the spring clip and slide the float up or down to set the water level one inch below the top of the overflow tube or align it with the water line marked on the tank. Once the water supply is restored, promptly check for leaks, tightening the nuts if needed.

Step 15: Fixing the Flush Valve – Identifying Issues

Begin by listening for running water after pushing down on the flapper with a yardstick. If the running water sound ceases, the flapper requires replacement. In cases where applying extra pressure on the flapper doesn’t resolve the issue, water may be escaping through a cracked or corroded overflow tube. In such instances, detaching the tank from the bowl and replacing the entire flush valve is necessary. Since problems with the overflow tube are uncommon in causing a running toilet, this repair will not be addressed here.

Step 16: Cleaning the Flapper

Turn off the water supply, flush the toilet to empty the tank, and run your finger around the flush valve seat rim. If mineral deposits are detected, use an abrasive sponge or Scotch-Brite pad to gently clean the flush valve seat. Avoid anything that might roughen it. If cleaning doesn’t resolve the issue, proceed to replace the flapper.

Step 17: Removing the Flapper

Detach the old flapper from the ears of the overflow tube and disconnect the chain from the handle arm.

Step 18: Installing the New Flapper

Attach the new flapper to the overflow tube and link the chain to the handle arm, leaving 1/2-in. of slack in the chain. Ensure the chain has enough slack to prevent tangling or hindering the flapper from closing firmly. Turn the water back on and test-flush the toilet. Note that flapper replacement steps may vary based on your specific type of flapper.

Step 19: Replacing a Broken or Corroded Toilet Flush Handle

Toilet flush handles, prone to loosening or corrosion, can cause ongoing running issues. Removal of the flush handle involves a trick: the retaining nut inside the tank is reverse-threaded. Stand in front of the toilet and turn the nut to the left to loosen it. Once loosened, remove the old handle and lever, insert the new handle, and secure it by threading on the retaining nut. Tighten by turning to the right.

Renowned figures Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz, known as the American Pickers and prominently featured on the History Channel, undertake extensive journeys across the United States, meticulously searching through barns and outbuildings in the quest for secondhand treasures that they can acquire and subsequently sell. Their recent publication, titled “American Pickers Guide to Picking” (Hyperion, $24.99), meticulously details a comprehensive inventory of esteemed brands that hold significant monetary value. Are any of these highly sought-after items hidden within your attic or garage? If so, it is advisable to engage the services of a certified appraiser affiliated with the American Society of Appraisers (appraisers.org).

Bikes: Columbia, Elgin, Gormully & Jeffery, Orient, Star, Victor/Victoria,Schwinn，these bikes are collectible

Bikes are more than mere vehicles; they embody a culture, a lifestyle, and a means of both personal and communal expression. These two-wheeled machines have a rich history and an extensive evolution, from the earliest pedal-powered models of the 19th century to the modern marvels of engineering and design we see today.

In the realm of sustainability, bicycles stand out as an eco-friendly mode of transport, promoting a healthier lifestyle while reducing carbon emissions. This aspect elevates their significance in the context of environmental consciousness and urban planning, as cities strive to create more bike-friendly environments.

Ultimately, bikes are not just a conglomeration of gears and frames; they represent a fusion of history, technology, personal stories, and a commitment to a healthier, more environmentally conscious future. They remain a timeless symbol of freedom, adventure, and human ingenuity.

toys：Dinky, Gottschalk, Gunserman, Keystone, Marklin, Schuko, Steiff, Wilkins, these toys are collectible

Toys also play a pivotal role in the commercial world. They drive industries and markets, shaping the economy while continually adapting to consumer preferences and trends. From globally recognized franchises to local artisanal creations, the toy industry is a vast landscape catering to a diverse range of interests and preferences.

In a broader context, toys are not just objects for play but instruments that contribute to cultural and societal narratives. They signify the universal need for leisure, exploration, and the human inclination towards creativity and innovation. Whether made of plastic, wood, or digitally rendered, toys transcend their physical form to become vessels of joy, learning, and cultural reflection.

cars：Cadillac Roadster, Chevelle, Ford Fairlane and Galaxie, Nash, Plymouth, Rolls-Royce, Studebaker,these cars are collectible

The cultural impact of cars extends beyond their mechanical functions. They are a driving force in art, literature, and media, captivating imaginations and defining eras. From iconic films centered around cars to music and art inspired by their sleek designs, automobiles have become part of the collective human narrative.

Ultimately, cars symbolize not just a mode of transport but an embodiment of progress, individual expression, and cultural identity. They have reshaped societies, economies, and landscapes, and their continued evolution serves as a reflection of our ever-changing world.

Motorcycles：BSA, Excelsior, Flying Merkel, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Indian, Kawasaki，these Motorcycles are collectible

Additionally, motorcycles hold a significant place in various forms of entertainment and art. They feature prominently in films, literature, and art, symbolizing rebellion, freedom, and the allure of the open road. They inspire a sense of adventure and serve as a canvas for creative expression and storytelling.

From a practical standpoint, motorcycles offer an efficient and agile means of transportation, particularly in urban environments. Their smaller footprint and maneuverability make them an attractive option for navigating congested city streets while also offering an exhilarating and engaging way to travel.

Ultimately, motorcycles embody a unique blend of performance, freedom, and individual expression. They are more than a mode of transport; they represent a lifestyle choice, a community, and a symbol of freedom on two wheels.

Compared to gasoline cars, conventional hybrids, or battery-electric vehicles, understanding a plug-in hybrid can be particularly challenging. It operates akin to a regular hybrid, such as a Toyota Prius, yet presents an additional facet: functioning as an electric vehicle that recharges by plugging into a power source to energize a battery pack, enabling it to operate on electric power intermittently—but typically within a range of 20 to 60 miles.

This complexity often bewilders prospective car buyers. One commentator humorously suggested that plug-in hybrids are a solution devised by engineers to answer a question posed by bureaucrats, a question that no actual car buyer has ever raised: “How can I predominantly cover my anticipated daily mileage using electricity, while averting the range anxiety associated with a purely electric vehicle?”

The concept revolves around providing drivers who can charge their vehicles at home overnight with an electric range of 20 to 50 miles, adequate for their daily commuting and errands. According to data from the U.S. Department of Transportation, the average driver covers approximately 37 miles per day. However, for unforeseen longer trips or situations where charging isn’t feasible, these vehicles still function as fuel-efficient hybrids. For owners who primarily undertake short trips, the combustion engine might remain dormant for weeks, necessitating gasoline refills only every few months, provided they regularly recharge the vehicle.

Power-Split vs. Series Hybrids

There exist primarily two categories of plug-in hybrids: those that harmonize power derived from both the battery pack and the gasoline engine (referred to as “power-split hybrids”) and the far less common type where the gasoline engine functions solely as a generator to recharge the battery but lacks the ability to mechanically propel the wheels (known as “series hybrids”). The BMW i3 stands as a notable example of the latter.

The majority of power-split hybrids integrate torque from both the engine and the motor to propel the same axle. This configuration is employed by manufacturers like Toyota, Ford, and others. While many of these hybrids are front-wheel-drive vehicles, such as the Toyota Prius, some also offer all-wheel drive. All-wheel drive can be achieved through driveshafts that mechanically power the rear wheels (as seen in the 2005–2012 Ford Escape Hybrid) or via an electric motor that propels the rear wheels (as evident in the current Toyota Prius or RAV4 Hybrid).

Alternatively, a select few hybrids utilize the gasoline engine primarily to power one axle but incorporate an electric motor to drive the other end of the vehicle. The hybrid function occurs when the powertrain control system determines whether gasoline or electric power needs to supplement the mode already propelling the vehicle. This variant is known as a “through-the-road hybrid” because the engine and motor power combine exclusively through the four wheels, without interaction within the powertrain itself. While there are no vehicles solely powered by a gasoline engine for one axle and exclusively electric power for the other, a closely related example is the new Dodge Hornet R/T (and its similar counterpart, the Alfa Romeo Tonale). These models feature a robust electric motor propelling the rear wheels (thus functioning as rear-wheel drive in electric mode) while also integrating a small electric motor that assists the gas engine upfront.

Single Motor vs. Dual Motor Configurations in Plug-In Hybrids

However, drivers will discern a distinct variance in driving experience between plug-in hybrids equipped with a two-motor system, which collaborates through a planetary gearset to serve as a transmission (as seen in the Toyota and Ford models), and those employing a single electric motor positioned between the engine and a traditional automatic transmission (adopted in some newer Fords, all Hyundai and Kia models, Mazda, etc.).

The utilization of two motors and a planetary gearset allows for continuous adjustment of ratios. In contrast, an electric motor situated between an engine and gearbox propels the vehicle through that gearbox, resulting in the retention of standard shifting patterns even when operating in the electric mode. However, these shifts often tend to be less seamless compared to those from a conventional internal combustion engine powertrain.

Electric Power versus Total Power

Drivers will also observe a significant difference in the power output of Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) when operating solely on electricity in comparison to when they utilize gasoline alone or a combination of gasoline and electric power. For instance, consider the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV: its electric motor is rated at 173 horsepower, yet the combined gasoline-electric hybrid system generates an overall output of 323 horsepower. Consequently, acceleration from 0 to 60 mph significantly decreases from a rapid 5.9 seconds when functioning as a hybrid to over 11 seconds in EV mode. This disparity in acceleration makes it challenging to keep pace with traffic or swiftly merge onto an interstate without engaging the gas engine.

The two iterations of the Chevrolet Volt (2011–2015 and 2016–2018) were distinctive among plug-in hybrids for delivering nearly identical performance, whether the car operated solely on battery power or in gasoline hybrid mode.

Plug-In Behavior: A Regulatory Challenge

The ultimate quandary concerning plug-in hybrids—pertaining not to the owners but to regulatory bodies—is whether these vehicles are actually connected to a power source. If they remain unconnected, they essentially function as marginally improved hybrids, adding weight, inflating costs, and frequently benefiting from substantial purchase incentives, even if they never utilize the electric grid.

Throughout the 2010s, the two leading plug-in hybrid manufacturers (GM and Ford) disclosed compiled data on owners’ practices of plugging in their vehicles to both the media and regulatory authorities. For instance, a 2013 report by the U.S. Department of Energy indicated that 75 percent of the miles covered by the Chevy Volt were powered by grid electricity.

Unfortunately, in the early 2020s, neither of the two primary plug-in hybrid manufacturers (Toyota and Jeep) were inclined to share data concerning the frequency or occurrence of their vehicles being connected to a power source. To them, it appears inconsequential. They receive regulatory acknowledgment for selling the vehicles, regardless of the owners’ usage patterns. Moreover, plug-in hybrids often come with incentives that salespeople can employ to lower the purchase price, making it comparable to that of a standard hybrid, even though the plug-in hybrid frequently boasts superior trim specifications, justifying its higher retail price.