Build a Low-Budget Cement Mixer

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Next, assemble the iron pipe frame (we used galvanized Schedule 40 stock) by merely threading the pieces together. Mount the smaller (rear) rollers—by sliding a bolt through the disks and tee fitting and fastening it with a nut—and attach the main wheels as well. (To be sure the large hubs are held securely in place, first slip the axle shaft through its tubular housing and put on the wheels and washers. Now, mark and drill the cotter pin holes as close as possible to the disks, to prevent the shaft from having excessive end play and wobble, then grease the axle and secure the whole assembly with two cotter pins.)

The mixing drum rotates on the shaft fastened to the central pipe cross, and is bushed with a section of electrical metallic tubing (EMT). Grease the pipe "axle", slip the conduit over that, and lubricate the assembly yet again. Then slide the tub over the shaft and thread on the pipe cap to hold the components in place. (It would be a good idea to put some lubricant on the frame's "spine" bar—at the points where it contacts the vat—to aid the rotation process.)

Finally, you can paint the assembly if you wish, and—once you attach a set of bicycle grips to the handles—your "minimixer" will be ready to use! We've found that our little machine can hold one full 40-pound bag of ready-mix without any problem. For most people, it's easy enough just to grab the rim of the tub and pull it—hand over hand—in order to stir up the "mud". (Hint: Rotate the drum in the correct direction . . . the angled paddle blades should bite into the gritty substance and then drop it from the top of the vat.) Of course, if you wish, you can attach handles to the outside of the drum—opposite each paddle—by using longer 1/4" bolts to secure the "mixers". (Be certain that your grips clear all parts of the frame during rotation.)

In any case, this simple piece of equipment is well worth the ten dollars or so (and the hour or two) required to assemble it. And—if you hose the drum out thoroughly after each job—you'll have a trouble-free tool for years to come!

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