Idea #1: Inflating Tires
Because many detachable lifts have pneumatic tires on the contours at terminal turn-arounds, maintaining tire pressure is an important component of maintenance. To cut down on time and energy, Hunter Mountain, N.Y., has installed a tank of nitrogen gas at each station. Each tank has enough hose to reach all the tires.
Idea #2: Hydrostatic Drives
Hydrostatic drives for auxiliary power units can be very expensive—even for smaller horsepower units. Scott Berwick, chief engineer at Hunter, purchased basic parts for a riding lawnmower, applied a lot of ingenuity, and now has an economical speed control for their novice chair lift.
Hydraulic fluid is moved from the storage tank (A) through the low-pressure line (B) and filter (C) to the small hydrostatic drive (D). Power is provided by the off-the-shelf Kohler 20 hp gasoline engine. Speed is controlled by a lever located just below the fuel filter (E).
Idea #3: Stop Gates
On certain types of chairlifts, restraining bars and foot rests will sometimes close after a skier disembarks, especially when a strong wind is coming up the line. Conventional wand or rope-type stop gates can also experience problems due to wind and icing from snowmaking. As a result, many areas use an electric eye to detect a lowered footrest. What makes Hunter’s system unique are the adjustable mounting plates and fixed receiver plates. The special steel plates are set into the deck, allowing the portable support stand and connecting cable to be stored inside overnight. Then, each morning, the devices are always returned to their correct location because of the permanent steel mounts.
