Abstract: A portable sweep auger apparatus and method for controllably transferring predetermined continuous amounts of granular and powdered gypsum from a pile of gypsum to an irrigation ditch. The apparatus includes a base member, a driver member and an auger assembly member mechanically coupled to the driver member. The driver member and the auger assembly member are pivotally coupled to the base member to effect forward travel that depletes the gypsum pile. A first level of control is effected by a fixed auger design that coact with the driver member for regulating and delivering predetermined amounts of the gypsum material. A second level of control is effected by a slip clutch wheel coacting with the rotating auger shaft for controlling forward movement of the entire auger assembly towards and against the pile of gypsum material until the material has been depleted. A track that compensates for unleveled terrain is provided for guiding the slip clutch wheel.

Abstract: An improved platformed vehicle having a steerable front wheel is disclosed. The vehicle includes a bifurcated platform with the tail of the platform being divided into first and second branches. Rear wheels are mounted, in pairs, on the underside of each of the branches of the platform. A pair of steerable front wheels are mounted below the platform near the front of the platform. The sprocket wheels are also attached to the underside of the front of the platform. The first sprocket wheel is coupled to the steerable front wheel, while the second sprocket wheel, mounted just behind the first sprocket wheel, is couple to a steering mechanism which passes through the platform. A chain drive couples the two sprocket wheels and thus couples the steering mechanism to the front wheels. The second sprocket wheel has a larger diameter than does the first sprocket wheels so that small turns of the steering mechanism are translated into relatively large changes in the front wheel direction.