DEVICE ATTACHES AMBER STROBE LIGHTS TO TREELENGTH LOADS

Trucks/Trucking: safety

INTRODUCTION: Loggers in some states are required to attach amber flashing lights to treelength loads where the overhang is four feet or more beyond the back of the trailer. I needed a safe and simple way to attach the flashing light to my treelength loads, so I devised and built a tool to accomplish this on my logging operation.

Fig. 1: Strobe light modification using quarter-inch-thick metal and screw eye.

Fig. 2: Binder tightening bar can be used to screw strobe
light attachment into a piece of treelength wood.

GENERAL FEATURES: I cut a somewhat bottle-shaped piece of quarter-inch-thick metal to fit the contour of the strobe light's underside and to provide a place on which to wrap the electrical cord. I inserted a six-inch screw eye and washer through the small end of the metal plate.

OPERATION: To attach the light, I simply twist the screw eye into the end of a log or pulpwood stem overhanging on the trailer. The truck driver can use the bar he uses for tightening his binding straps to twist the screw eye into the tree. The wiring from the light can be wound around or secured to a hook I have welded onto the back of the trailer and then connected to the electrical outlet at the rear of the trailer.

Fig. 3: Strobe light stays tight on end of load.

Fig. 4: Strobe light wiring is secured around trailer hook
and plugged into rear electrical outlet.

APPLICATION: The local NAPA automotive parts store liked my invention-the store now produces and sells the lights with my modification. A few other loggers in he area also liked my light/connection unit and have asked me for the plans.

Fig. 5: Sylvester Comer was honored for 50 years
of logging excellence in 2002.

SPECIFICATION AND COSTS: The strobe light costs about $50. The only additional cost is a minimal amount for the metal, screw eye, washers, and an hour or less of labor time for fabricating and attaching the metal plate.

 Sylvester Comer
 Comer Logging
 115 Wilkinson Road
 Palatka, Florida 32177
 386/325-4280

STAFF COMMENT: Sylvester Comer, Florida's 2002 State Outstanding Logger, celebrated his logging operation's 50th anniversary in 2002. Safety and innovation are still hallmarks of his business after five decades.

Reviewed by:
Rick Meyer
Appalachian/Southeastern Technical Division Forester

Please follow equipment manufacturers' recommendations for safe operation and maintenance procedures.