Building a Walk-Behind Rotary Broom Sweeper on a Budget

As a homeowner with a large lawn, you know how frustrating it can be to deal with leaves and debris that seem to multiply overnight. While traditional bagger attachments for your lawn mower may not be practical or affordable, building your own walk-behind rotary broom sweeper can be a cost-effective solution.

One of the most significant limitations of tine dethatchers is their inability to effectively rake grass and leaves that filter between the tines. This is where a walk-behind rotary broom sweeper comes in. By using metal teeth similar to those found on forage harvesters, you can efficiently collect coarse grass material and toss it into a windrow.

When designing your sweeper head, consider the ratio of broom rotation to the speed at which you plan to drive it. A 6-1 or 8-1 ratio should provide adequate sweeping power while allowing for easy control. You'll also want to ensure that the sweeper head is designed to toss clippings and leaf pieces about 5' behind the bed, making cleanup a breeze.

To alleviate issues with bag dragging on the ground and self-tipping, consider using metal teeth with a sturdy design. This will not only improve sweeping efficiency but also provide better traction when powering the sweeper. Additionally, you may want to incorporate turf tires or similar rubber compounds to ensure stable movement across your lawn.

While building a walk-behind rotary broom sweeper can be a challenging project, it's certainly achievable with the right materials and knowledge. By designing a sweeper that meets your specific needs, you can create a machine that is both effective and affordable.

In this article, we'll explore the key components of a walk-behind rotary broom sweeper and provide tips on how to design and build one for under $200. Whether you're looking to supplement your existing lawn care routine or replace a traditional bagger attachment, building your own walk-behind rotary broom sweeper is a cost-effective solution that's worth considering.

With the right tools, knowledge, and design, you can create a high-quality walk-behind rotary broom sweeper that meets your specific needs. By avoiding the limitations of tine dethatchers and bagger attachments, you'll be able to efficiently collect leaves and debris while also enjoying a more affordable and sustainable lawn care solution.

Walk behind rotary broom sweeper