Brakes?

[ArtfulCharm]

I'm fixing the cart that I have, which is a homemade cart that I got used. It is well made, and the right size for a newf, so was an awesome find for $5! It had broken shafts, so I am replacing them. The brakes on the original shafts seem too close to the end for me. Can anyone tell me how far back the brakes should be from the end of the shafts?

Also how long are the shafts supposed to be (distance from the cart)? I think I know but want to be sure. We have a draft seminar this weekend so am anxious to get this thing up and running!

Thanks!

 

[Joan Fisher]

The helpful man at Wilczek, I think his name is Bill, told me the shafts should come to the point of the shoulder when the dog's hocks are about 18 inches from the cart, and the brakes should be 7-8 inches back from the ends of the shaft. Good Luck! Have fun with your carting!

 

[janices]

Shafts just out beyond point of shoulder so when dog does sharp turn doesn't turn into shaft front and get poked.. Then set the brakes based upon that. Sometimes depending on dog's length it's further back than 7-8" for brake set. Between cart and dog enough room so dog can take full stride without hitting cart/tree.

 

[Jeannie]

Be sure you set the brakes where the dog is postioned while pulling. If you set them while the dog is standing it will not be the same as when pulling. I usually set them, watch the dog pull to see if they are set properly then adjust as needed.