Warehouse Ladder Step Wheels

[jdcompman]

I've built a new stand for my bandsaw and the final step is to build a set of wheels for it. I would really like to build a setup for it where I can retract the wheels so it sits firmly on the ground when I want to use it. I was thinking a neat little setup like you see on warehouse inventory ladders would fit the bill quite perfectly. The problem is, I don't have access to one of these ladders to examine how the mechanism is built so I can reproduce it.

Does anyone have any close up pictures of how these are constructed?

I'm looking for a mechanism similar to this one, where the front and back wheels go up and down at the same time with just a simple step on a leveler for up and down.

 

[Sureshot]

I made my cutoff saw stand with one set of wheels out the back. They are slightly off the floor. When you pick up the front the wheels touch and away you go. The handle on front is set back under the frame and swinds down out of the way. When you swing it up it contacts the bottom of the frame and lift the stand.

 

[Mike_C]

I added some offset wheels to my tubing bender stand. They also sit just off the ground. Lift up the other end a few inches, and wheel it around. No complicated hinges or moving parts. Its not something I would want to have to move around every day, but for how often I need to move it this setup is perfect.

 

[machine_punk]

MIKE C: Nice bender and stand.

I used the same concept for my smaller workbench about 15 years ago, just made it all out of wood...
View media item 10266
And, oddly enough, I HAVE taken pictures of that mechanism (I take picture of any mechanical design which interests me, as I am out and about). I'm not sure they will help much, since they are cell phone pics, but here they are...

 

[srmofo]

well if you are dead set on having retractable wheels, Ive got a few links for you

Keep in mind this guy is a wood worker, he makes EVERYTHING out of wood but it should get the ball rolling for you, but it could be adapted to metal pretty easily
http://woodgears.ca/mobile_base/index.html

What kind/size of bandsaw do you have? Ive got a wood 14" grizzly and it sits on wheels 24/7. With the type of work I do, The wheels make no difference. Ive never had it try to roll while pushing stock through it.