Truck hauls loads of fun

There’s something about big, noisy construction equipment that’s irresistible to kids. If you have a child (or grandchild) who loves big machines, then this dump truck pedal car project is the perfect way to deliver an oversize load of fun with your next do-it-yourself project.

Combining smooth pedal-power and a sturdy frame with a working steering mechanism and dump box, the dump truck was designed with 3- to 6-year-olds in mind. It requires two full sheets of plywood, a few pieces of dimensional lumber, two steel rods and two pieces of flat steel stock. Six wheels, screws and nails, a few assorted pieces of hardware and some paint round out the shopping list.

How to build it

Construction is simple. First, cut out the pieces (most are traced from full-size patterns) and glue and nail them together. Next, install the steering mechanism, pedals and crankshaft. Finally, attach the dump box. Details like simulated headlights (cut from plywood) and a realistic yellow-and-black paint job complete the project.

The dump truck measures 45 inches long by 20 inches wide by 28 inches tall.

How to order the plan

The Dump Truck Pedal Car plan, No. 682, is $9.95 and includes complete step-by-step directions with photos, full-size traceable patterns, construction diagrams, a shopping list and a toll-free help line for project questions.

A package of three pedal cars, No. C143, is $22.95 and includes plans for the dump truck plus a pedal-powered police car and a fire truck pedal car. A catalog picturing hundreds of do-it-yourself projects is $2. Please include $4 for postage and handling (except catalog-only orders) and allow about two weeks for delivery.

To order by mail, clip this article and send it with a check or money order to U-Bild Features, c/o The Spokesman-Review, 3800 Oceanic Drive, Suite 107, Oceanside, CA 92056. To order by credit card, call (800) 828-2453. Visit U-Bild on the Web at u-bild.com.