Revolutionize Your Farming Efficiency with This Cutting-Edge Solution

Achieving Precision and Ease in Drainage Installation

Tom Linerode, a seasoned farmer from Alliance, Ohio, recognized the inefficiencies inherent in traditional methods of laying drainage tiles. With years of experience under his belt, he understood the challenges firsthand—two-man teams struggling to maneuver heavy rolls of tile while battling unpredictable weather conditions. Determined to find a better way, Linerode devised a clever solution: a tile spinner designed to attach seamlessly to an all-terrain vehicle (ATV).

This ingenious creation eliminates much of the manual effort traditionally required. By mounting the spinner onto an ATV, operators can effortlessly transport and deploy large spools of perforated corrugated tile across fields. The device's design ensures smooth operation, allowing even single operators to complete tasks that once demanded multiple workers and significant physical exertion. Linerode’s innovation exemplifies how thinking outside the box can lead to substantial improvements in productivity and efficiency.

Material Selection and Construction Techniques

The assembly of Linerode’s tile spinner involves carefully chosen materials tailored for durability and functionality. Key components include two 1-inch bearings housed within robust holders, a sturdy 42-inch-long shaft, and four swivel caster wheels to ensure stability during movement. Supporting these elements are two quarter-inch thick steel plates measuring 12x15 inches, which securely hold the bearings in place. Additionally, several feet of thin square tubing provide structural integrity, complemented by sixteen feet of strap steel and three feet of angle iron for reinforcement.

To enhance usability, Linerode incorporated a wooden framework consisting of a central 4x4 post spanning five feet in length, alongside two shorter 4x4 pieces extending thirty inches each. Smaller lumber sections further bolster the structure’s rigidity. Adjustments may be necessary depending on the specific ATV model used, ensuring clearance between the spinner mechanism and the vehicle’s sidewalls. Proper alignment remains crucial throughout construction; as Linerode emphasizes, maintaining plumbness and straightness is vital for optimal performance.

Maximizing Effectiveness Through Strategic Design

An integral aspect of the spinner’s effectiveness lies in its ability to accommodate various sizes of tile rolls. To achieve this versatility, Linerode utilized a repurposed 30-gallon chemical barrel, centrally positioned and bolted atop the spinner’s upper level. This barrel serves as the core support for any tile roll placed upon it, ensuring stability regardless of diameter or weight. Such thoughtful integration showcases Linerode’s commitment to creating a tool adaptable to diverse farming needs.

When queried about potential difficulties encountered during development, Linerode highlighted precision as the primary challenge. Achieving perfect alignment proved demanding yet indispensable for realizing the desired outcomes. Despite these hurdles, the end result exceeded expectations. “The savings on manpower and time have been immense,” Linerode remarked, underscoring the transformative impact of his creation on daily operations.

Beyond the Field: A Legacy of Innovation and Service

Prior to retiring, Tom Linerode co-managed an expansive dairy operation alongside his brother, Keith. Spanning six generations, their family farm encompassed 1,100 acres dedicated to cultivating alfalfa, corn, soybeans, and wheat. This extensive background equipped Linerode with invaluable insights into optimizing agricultural practices, ultimately inspiring innovations like the tile spinner.

Beyond agriculture, Linerode maintains active involvement in numerous community endeavors. For decades, he served as both firefighter and eventually fire chief at his local volunteer department, demonstrating unwavering dedication to public safety. In his leisure time, he indulges in hobbies such as arrowhead collecting, antique tractor restoration, and embarking on scenic day trips with his wife, Bonnie—a partnership celebrating nearly half a century. These pursuits reflect Linerode’s passion for preserving history while embracing technological advancements to improve contemporary life.