I really wanted all my stationary tools on wheels, but I didn’t have enough money to buy commercial mobile bases. So I made a base out of a few 2x4s and scraps of plywood, and created a simple, effective brake that lets you lock the fixed wheels by tightening a single wing nut. The base works so well that I now have seven.

Start by purchasing wheels—two fixed and two swivel. Measure the tool base and add 2 in. to each dimension. This allows a 1-in. overlap for screwing the base to the tool. For a strong frame, I cut lap joints into the 2x4s. Before assembling the base, drill a hole through one end for the brake bolt.

The brake assembly consists of a sliding plywood plate and two plywood brake pads that tighten against the fixed wheels to lock them. I traced the wheels on the brake pad stock and cut and shaped them with a scrollsaw and drum sander. At final assembly, drill a hole through the shaft of the bolt for a small finish nail, then nail the head of the bolt to the plywood plate. The nail keeps the bolt from spinning as the wing nut is turned.

Jim Richey

Jim Richey

Guy Gerrard, Orlando, FL

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