Abstract: A lightweight vehicle which is operational on water, mud, marshy areas and other ground surfaces which includes a raised main frame upon which controls are provided for independently rotating at least one pair of drive drums which are mounted on opposite sides of the main frame. The drive drums are of a hollow cylindrical configuration and of a size to provide sufficient buoyancy to allow the vehicle to float on water. Each drive drum is provided with a spiral flute for developing propulsion and is driven by one or more hydraulic motors mounted axially with respect to the drum. Cutter bars are mounted to the frame and extend toward the ends of the drums to prevent debris interference with the drive shafts or bearings on which the drums are mounted.

Abstract: A lightweight floatable vehicle which includes an articulated main frame to which a variety of earthworking and dredging equipment may be mounted and which is supported and propelled by four independently powered, hollow, generally circular pods which are positioned below the main frame. The pods are adjustably mounted to outriggers from the main frame so that the surface contact area of the pods may be altered to adjust the buoyancy, traction and weight distribution of the vehicle. A plurality of cleats are provided along the lower and outer Surfaces of each pod for purposes of providing traction and propulsion.

Abstract: Settling ponds used in strip mining are reclaimed using lightweight amphibious vehicles which are capable of traversing land, water or clay surfaces and wherein the method consists of pumping clay settled in subsurface areas and spreading the clay remotely over crusted surface areas to thereby create stabilized low profile drainage ditches which extend from low level areas of the ponds to the perimeters thereof to allow water drain off to the perimeter.