Materials and Tools Required:
- Metal tire
- Bullock cart wheel
- Anvil
- Forge or heating source
- Sledgehammer
- Tongs
- Wrenches
- Measuring tools
Step 1: Prepare the Metal Tire:
- Obtain a metal tire that is slightly smaller in diameter than the wooden wheel.
- Heat the metal tire in a forge or other heating source until it becomes pliable.
Step 2: Shape the Metal Tire:
- Place the heated tire on an anvil.
- Using a sledgehammer and tongs, shape the tire into a circular form.
- Ensure the tire is evenly shaped and fits snugly around the wooden wheel.
Step 3: Attach the Metal Tire:
- Position the shaped metal tire around the wooden wheel.
- Use a sledgehammer to drive the tire onto the wheel, ensuring it sits securely.
- Tighten the tire using wrenches.
Step 4: Secure the Metal Tire:
- Hammer small metal wedges or nails into the wooden wheel to secure the tire in place.
- This helps prevent the tire from slipping or coming off during use.
- Alternatively, you may use bolts and nuts to secure the metal tire to the wooden wheel.
Step 5: Heat Treatment:
- After the metal tire is secured, heat it again using the forge or heating source.
- This process hardens the metal, making it more durable and resistant to wear.
Step 6: Final Adjustments:
- Once the metal tire has cooled down, check its positioning and alignment with the wheel.
- Make necessary adjustments to ensure smooth and balanced rotation of the wheel.
Note: The process of heating and shaping the metal tire can be challenging and requires skilled blacksmiths or metalworkers. Proper safety measures should be taken while handling hot metal.
The specific tools and techniques used for fitting metal tires on bullock carts may vary depending on regional practices and traditions.
