Westlake Publishing Forums

Yesterday I was reminded, in a friendly manner, by another forum member that I had actually posted this build here in 2013 when I did it. So I searched it out and sure enough it was there, but there are no pictures or historical background info and most of the text makes little sense without the pictures. Boy old guys CRS!

I was going to delete this thread but then thought maybe some of you may not be offended by a rerun with additional information. So will continue if there are no objections.
Rick, the old guy



           

Totally unoffended and looking forward to the new and improved posts.

Quote from: Krusty on August 22, 2026, 02:33:45 AMTotally unoffended and looking forward to the new and improved posts.

I second that!

No objections—I'm looking forward to more exciting reports!

I am deeply and personally offended, of course, but keep posting anyway! -- Russ

Well thanks for the encouragement guys, but understand that everything that follows is partially your fault.

Russ, do you remember where that corner is that you want to send everyone to?
Yea, your turn.

OK, back to the topic of log skidding.

Now for the next generation of log skidding equipment in the woods, the steel arches.
Like everything else every manufacture had their own ideas when it came to these. Some worked mechanically some used hydraulics but they all got the job done somewhat faster and better than the big wheels.



The Villair arch was one of the first to hit the market. Produced by Redding Iron Works it was a big seller but they soon ran into paten problems that finally drove the company completely out of the logging equipment business. They were way ahead of their time, notice the crude Fairlead that the cables ran through from the winch on the back of the tractor.



Another early design that used hydraulics from a pump on the tractor to lift the logs.


Another example.



And a third example, this one used a lift system similar to the old stiff tongue big wheels.

Stay tuned we are getting closer to the subject of our build.

Cool stuff!
I have never seen these even all my books and magazines.
Or maybe just forgot.
Thanks!
MJinTN

(From the corner): None of my reference material shows them, either. -- Russ