Post by Deleted on Dec 9, 2017 20:47:13 GMT -5
Last spring, my dad and I came up with this simple design for a mineral feeder that mounts compactly into the corner of a barn or stall. We currently have two of these in use inside our new cattle shed:
Why the addition of a roof, when it's mounted inside? This is to greatly reduce the likelihood of an animal backing over the feeder and defecating or urinating into it.
And here's how it's built:
I started with a 30" x 30" x 3/4" piece of treated plywood. I then cut this in half at a diagonal, so there are now two identical triangular pieces; one for the top and the other for the bottom. Next I created a frame for both pieces, using untreated 2" x 4" lumber, cut lengthwise down the center. As you can see in the second picture, some 45 degree cuts are required. These frames are fastened using 2-1/2" wood screws. Once finished, both the top and the bottom should be identical in construction. See illustration.
Now, we're ready to begin installation. The bottom is fastened to the wall using four 3-1/2" wood screws. Mount the bottom 16" from the floor. See illustration.
And yes, someone always has to come and investigate EVERYTHING :
Next, I fastened strips of treated lumber around the edges of the bottom, using 2-1/2" wood screws. These pieces were created by cutting a 2" x 4" in half, lengthwise, then cutting those strips in half, lengthwise, at a 45 degree angle. Again, some of the ends require 45 degree cuts. See illustration.
Next, I fastened a 2" x 6" board (untreated), using four 2-1/2" wood screws, to serve as the front of the feeder. See illustration.
Now, we are ready for the final step - installing the roof. This is fastened to the wall in the same way as the bottom, using four 3-1/2" wood screws. Mount the roof 24" from the bottom of the feeder. See illustration.
With basic woodworking skills and the right tools, it only takes a few hours to construct and install.
So that's all for today. Tune in next time for more from the Hummel Family Workshop!