Tractor Supply casters are essential components. These components enhance the mobility of equipment. Equipment includes toolboxes, workbenches, and carts. Carts are often found at Tractor Supply Company. These casters from brands like Shepherd Hardware Products provide smooth movement. They also provide stability on various surfaces. Surface examples include concrete and gravel. The load capacity is a crucial factor. The crucial factor must be considered. It must be considered to ensure safety and efficiency. Safety and efficiency are in different working environments.
Ever wondered how that massive tool chest glides so effortlessly across the garage floor? Or how those industrial carts navigate a warehouse with such surprising ease? The secret’s out: it’s all thanks to casters! These unsung heroes of mobility are everywhere, making our lives easier, safer, and way more efficient. From the humble shopping cart at your local grocery store to the heavy-duty equipment on a construction site, casters are the wheels that keep the world turning…literally!
But hold on a second! Before you rush out and slap some wheels on everything you own, it’s crucial to understand that not all casters are created equal. Choosing the wrong caster for the job can lead to some pretty disastrous (and sometimes hilarious) consequences. Think wobbly carts, broken equipment, and maybe even a face-plant or two. Ouch!
That’s why picking the right caster is super important. It’s all about matching the caster to the specific demands of the application. This ensures not only safety and efficiency but also the longevity of your equipment. We’re talking years of smooth rolling, not just a few weeks of squeaky frustration!
So, where can you find these magical mobility devices? Well, you’re in luck! Places like Tractor Supply Company offer a wide variety of casters to suit just about any need. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your toolbox, build a custom cart, or simply replace some worn-out wheels, they’ve got you covered. Now, let’s dive into the fascinating world of casters and discover the perfect match for your next project!
Caster Types: A Comprehensive Overview
So, you’re diving into the wonderful world of casters, huh? It’s not just about wheels; it’s about choosing the right dance partner for your equipment! Let’s break down the different caster personalities you’ll encounter.
Rigid Casters: Steady Eddies of the Caster World
Think of these as the no-nonsense casters. Rigid casters, also known as fixed casters, are designed to roll in a straight line. They’re the reliable workhorses when you need something to go from point A to point B without any fancy turns. Imagine a long, straight hallway in a warehouse – that’s where rigid casters shine. They’re often paired with swivel casters to create a balance of stability and maneuverability on carts and equipment. Need something to stay the course? Rigid casters are your pal.
Swivel Casters: The Dancing Queens (and Kings!)
Now, these are the life of the party! Swivel casters can rotate a full 360 degrees, giving you maximum maneuverability. Picture a shopping cart gracefully gliding through the aisles – that’s the magic of swivel casters. They let you navigate tight corners and change direction on a dime. Of course, too much swivel can be a bit chaotic, so they’re often used in combination with rigid casters for a more controlled ride. Want to pirouette your way through a workspace? Swivel casters are your best bet!
Locking Casters: Hold On Tight!
Sometimes, you need things to stay put. That’s where locking casters come to the rescue. These casters have a built-in mechanism to prevent movement, providing safety and stability, especially on uneven surfaces or when you need equipment to remain stationary. Think of a rolling workbench that you don’t want to accidentally roll away mid-project.
Side Lock Casters: The Quick-Stop Option
One common type is the side lock caster. These typically have a lever or pedal located on the side of the caster that you can easily engage or disengage with your foot. They’re super convenient for quick stops and starts, like on a serving cart in a restaurant or on equipment that needs to be frequently secured and released.
Heavy-Duty Casters: The Muscle-Bound Movers
When you’re dealing with serious weight, you need heavy-duty casters. These bad boys are built to handle high load capacities without breaking a sweat. They’re made with stronger materials, beefier bearings, and reinforced designs to withstand the rigors of industrial applications. Think of them as the bodybuilders of the caster world. Got a massive toolbox or a super-sized cart? Heavy-duty casters are the answer.
Pneumatic Casters: The Smooth Operators
Need to transport something delicate? Pneumatic casters are your go-to choice. These casters feature air-filled tires that act as shock absorbers, cushioning the load and protecting it from bumps and vibrations. They’re perfect for sensitive equipment, fragile items, or uneven terrain. You’ll often find them on farm equipment, where a smooth ride is essential for protecting crops and machinery. Want to float your way through a bumpy ride? Pneumatic casters are your magic carpet.
Caster Sets: The Ready-to-Roll Solution
Sometimes, you just want things to be easy. That’s where caster sets come in. These sets typically include a matched set of casters (usually two swivel and two rigid, or four swivels), making it convenient to upgrade or replace all the casters on a piece of equipment at once. It’s a hassle-free way to ensure consistent performance and appearance. Think of it as a complete makeover for your rolling gear!
Replacement Casters: Knowing When to Say Goodbye
Casters don’t last forever. Over time, they can wear down, become damaged, or simply stop performing as well as they used to. That’s when it’s time for replacement casters. Signs of wear and tear include squeaking, difficulty rolling, wobbling, or visible damage to the wheel or frame. Replacing worn-out casters can improve safety, efficiency, and the overall lifespan of your equipment. Don’t wait until a wheel falls off – keep an eye on your casters and replace them when necessary!
Material Matters: Caster Construction Materials
- Discuss the common materials used in caster construction and their respective advantages and disadvantages.
Alright, let’s talk about what these trusty casters are actually made of! It’s not all just shiny metal and rubber, you know. The material of a caster wheel or frame dramatically affects its performance, longevity, and suitability for different environments. Picking the right material is just as important as picking the right size or type, so let’s get our hands dirty and explore what makes each one tick.
Steel Casters: The Strong and Reliable Workhorse
- Steel: Cover properties like strength and durability, and common applications where steel casters are preferred.
Steel casters are the bodybuilders of the caster world. We’re talking about serious strength and durability here. They laugh in the face of heavy loads and tough conditions. Think industrial settings, warehouses, and anywhere you need something that can withstand a beating. Steel casters are your go-to for moving heavy equipment, handling massive loads, or enduring rough terrains. These casters are designed for applications that require a robust and long-lasting solution, even if it means sacrificing a bit of noise reduction.
Iron Casters: The Traditional Choice
- Iron: Explain the properties of iron and situations where it’s a suitable material choice.
Iron casters are like the wise old veterans. They’re strong and reliable, especially in high-heat environments. Picture them in foundries, or any place that involves moving heavy stuff when things get toasty. While they may not be as fancy as some of the newer materials, they’re a solid choice if you need something dependable and heat-resistant. Plus, they’ve got that classic, no-nonsense vibe going on.
Rubber Casters: Silence is Golden
- Rubber: Highlight the noise and vibration reduction benefits of rubber wheels, making them ideal for quiet environments or delicate items.
Rubber casters are the ninjas of the caster world. These are your go-to for keeping things quiet, reducing vibration, and generally being gentle. Need to move delicate equipment? Want to keep the noise down in a library or office? Rubber casters have your back! The rubber absorbs shocks and dampens noise, making them perfect for sensitive environments or when you just want to avoid waking the neighbors while rearranging your furniture.
Polyurethane Casters: The High-Performance All-Rounder
- Polyurethane: Emphasize the durability and resistance to wear of polyurethane, making it suitable for high-traffic areas.
If you’re looking for a caster that can handle it all, polyurethane is your pal. This material boasts excellent durability and resistance to wear and tear. Polyurethane casters roll smoothly, can carry heavy loads, and won’t leave marks on your floors. They are ideal for high-traffic areas like warehouses, factories, and retail stores. They’re like the multi-tool of casters – versatile and always ready for action.
Nylon Casters: Chemical Resistance Champ
- Nylon: Discuss suitable applications for nylon casters, such as environments where resistance to chemicals or moisture is important.
Nylon casters are the superheroes in environments where chemicals and moisture are a constant threat. They’re resistant to corrosion, oils, and a variety of other chemicals. This makes them ideal for the food industry, laboratories, or any setting where cleanliness and resistance to harsh substances are crucial. Plus, they are pretty tough!
Phenolic Casters: The Heat-Defying Heavyweight
- Phenolic: Cover the heat resistance properties of phenolic casters, making them suitable for high-temperature environments.
Last but not least, phenolic casters are the heat-defying champs! If you’re dealing with high-temperature environments, like bakeries, autoclaves, or industrial ovens, these are the casters you want. Phenolic materials can withstand extreme heat without losing their integrity, making them a reliable choice where others would melt or crumble under the pressure.
Key Features: What to Look for in a Caster
Okay, so you’re ready to dive in and pick out the perfect set of casters? Awesome! But hold your horses (or carts!) for a sec. Choosing the right caster isn’t just about grabbing the first shiny thing you see. It’s about understanding what makes these little wheels tick. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t wear flip-flops to climb a mountain, right? Same deal here. Let’s break down the key features you need to consider to ensure your equipment rolls smoothly, safely, and without a hitch (or a squeak!).
Load Capacity: Don’t Overload Your Wheels!
First things first: Load Capacity. This is caster-speak for “how much weight can these babies handle?” Ignoring this is like inviting a caster catastrophe. Always, always make sure the casters you choose can handle the maximum weight they’ll be supporting. We’re talking the weight of the equipment itself PLUS whatever you’re planning to load onto it. Remember to calculate in a bit of a buffer, because who really knows how much that stack of bricks weighs? Casters usually list their load capacity in both pounds (lbs) and kilograms (kg), so pick the unit you are most comfortable with!
Wheel Diameter: Size Matters (For Rolling, At Least)
Next up, Wheel Diameter. Think of it this way: the bigger the wheel, the easier it’ll roll over obstacles. Imagine trying to roll a skateboard wheel over a speed bump versus a monster truck tire – you get the picture! Larger diameters also distribute the load more evenly, which can be a lifesaver on sensitive flooring. So, if you’re dealing with rough terrain or heavy loads, go big or go home!
Mounting Plate Dimensions: Make Sure It Fits!
You’ve found the perfect casters, load rating is great and wheel diameter is exactly what you need… BUT will it fit on your machine?? Mounting Plate Dimensions are critical. This is where careful measuring comes into play. Ensure that the mounting plate of the caster is compatible with the equipment you’re attaching it to. It’s like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole – it’s just not going to work. Double-check those measurements before you click “add to cart!”
Bearing Type: Smooth Moves or Grinding Halt?
Let’s talk Bearings. These little guys are what make your casters spin smoothly. Different bearing types have different pros and cons.
Bearing Tolerances:
Think of this as how precisely the bearing is made. Tighter tolerances mean smoother, more reliable operation.
Roller Bearings:
These are the heavy-duty workhorses of the bearing world. They’re incredibly durable and can handle serious loads. If you’re moving heavy equipment, roller bearings are your best friend.
Ball Bearings:
Ball bearings are all about smooth, effortless rolling. They’re ideal for lighter loads and applications where you need frequent movement. Imagine gliding across the floor with minimal effort – that’s the magic of ball bearings.
Brake Mechanisms: Stop Right There!
Brakes are essential for safety and stability, especially when you’re working on uneven surfaces or need to keep equipment stationary. Let’s look at the two main types:
Side Lock:
These are your basic, run-of-the-mill brakes. They’re convenient and easy to use, simply engaging a lever or pedal to lock the wheel.
Total Lock:
For maximum stability, you need a total lock. These brakes lock both the wheel and the swivel, preventing any movement whatsoever.
Swivel Radius: Making Those Tight Turns
Last but not least, Swivel Radius. This is the amount of space the caster needs to pivot. If you’re dealing with carts or equipment that need to maneuver in tight spaces, a smaller swivel radius is key. Picture trying to navigate a narrow hallway with a shopping cart that has a huge turning radius – not fun!
Applications: Where Casters Shine
Casters aren’t just for office chairs that let you zoom across the room (though, let’s be honest, that’s a pretty sweet application!). They’re everywhere, quietly making our lives easier in ways we often don’t even realize. Let’s take a spin through some of the most common—and coolest—places you’ll find these unsung heroes rolling along.
Farm Equipment: Getting Down and Dirty (But Smoothly)
Farmers are all about efficiency, and casters are their secret weapon for moving heavy equipment and materials around the farm. You’ll often find pneumatic casters on things like seeders and sprayers. These air-filled wonders are like tiny suspension systems, absorbing shocks and bumps as they navigate uneven terrain. This is especially important when you’re dealing with delicate cargo, like seedlings that need a gentle ride. Plus, they help prevent equipment damage, saving farmers time and money on repairs. Who knew a little wheel could be so powerful?
Trailers: Load Up and Let’s Roll!
Trailers are designed to haul stuff, and casters are crucial for making the loading and unloading process smooth and safe. Imagine trying to maneuver a heavy trailer without casters – you’d be stuck wrestling with it, especially on uneven ground. With the right casters, you can easily move the trailer into position, even when it’s fully loaded. This is especially important for trailers used in construction or landscaping, where materials need to be moved quickly and efficiently. Look for casters with high load capacities and durable materials that can withstand the rigors of the job.
Wagons: From Garden Gnomes to Gravel
Whether you’re hauling garden supplies around your backyard or transporting heavy materials on a construction site, wagons are indispensable. And what makes a wagon truly great? You guessed it: casters! For light-duty garden wagons, you can get away with smaller, lighter casters. But if you’re dealing with heavy loads like gravel, firewood, or building materials, you’ll need heavy-duty casters that can handle the weight. Pay attention to the load rating and choose casters that are up to the task. After all, you don’t want your wagon collapsing under the weight of your ambitions!
Carts: The Workhorses of Industry
Carts are everywhere, from industrial warehouses to grocery stores, moving goods and materials from one place to another. In industrial settings, you’ll find carts with swivel casters for easy maneuvering in tight spaces. In retail environments, you’ll see carts with locking casters to keep them from rolling away on sloped surfaces. The key is to choose casters that match the specific needs of the cart and the environment in which it will be used. Consider factors like load capacity, wheel material, and maneuverability to ensure optimal performance.
Toolboxes: Mobile Command Centers
For mechanics, carpenters, and other tradespeople, toolboxes are essential for keeping their tools organized and accessible. But a toolbox is only as good as its mobility. That’s where casters come in. By adding casters to your toolbox, you can easily move it around your workspace, keeping all your tools within reach. This not only saves time and energy but also helps prevent injuries from lifting and carrying heavy toolboxes. Look for casters with locking mechanisms to keep your toolbox from rolling away when you’re working on a project.
Workbenches: Adaptable Workspaces
A workbench on casters is a game-changer for any workshop. It allows you to easily reconfigure your workspace as needed, whether you’re working on a small project or a large one. Need more space? Simply roll your workbench out of the way. Need to move your project to a different location? No problem! With casters, your workbench becomes a mobile workstation, giving you the flexibility to adapt to any situation. Plus, it makes cleaning up your workspace a breeze – just roll the workbench aside and sweep underneath.
Material Handling Equipment: The Backbone of Logistics
In warehouses, factories, and other material handling environments, casters are absolutely essential for moving goods and materials efficiently and safely. From pallet jacks to dollies, casters are used on a wide range of equipment to streamline the flow of materials. They improve efficiency, reduce the risk of injuries, and help ensure that goods are delivered on time. Choose the right casters for your material handling equipment, and you’ll be well on your way to a smoother, more productive operation. It’s about moving smarter, not harder.
Brands and Retailers: Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Roll
Okay, so you’re ready to roll, literally! But where do you actually find these magical caster contraptions? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Think of this section as your treasure map to the land of casters, guiding you to the best brands and retailers out there. Let’s dive in, shall we?
Shepherd Hardware: The Household Hero
Shepherd Hardware is like that reliable friend who always has your back…and your furniture rolling smoothly. Known for their wide variety of casters, perfect for everything from office chairs to light-duty furniture, they’re a go-to for household needs. They offer many kinds of casters with different mounting types, load ratings, and wheel materials. You’ll likely find the perfect one at this store!
Colson: The Industrial Titan
Need something seriously robust? Colson is your brand. These guys are the heavy hitters, specializing in heavy-duty casters for industrial, healthcare, and aerospace applications. We’re talking serious load capacity here. If you’re moving mountains (or at least very heavy machinery), Colson’s the name to remember. They also offer a wide range of caster configurations, so you can find the perfect match.
Darnell-Rose: Precision and Performance
Darnell-Rose casters are engineered for applications demanding exceptional performance and reliability. Focusing on quality construction and innovative design, Darnell-Rose provides casters suited for aerospace, automotive, and material handling industries. Their products are known for precision bearings and durable materials.
Faultless: The Legacy of Quality
With a history spanning over a century, Faultless is a trusted name in the caster industry. They provide a comprehensive line of casters, ranging from light-duty options for furniture to heavy-duty solutions for industrial equipment. Faultless prides itself on delivering dependable products built to withstand challenging environments.
Tractor Supply Company: Your Local Caster Corner
Ah, Tractor Supply! Your one-stop shop for, well, everything! And yes, that includes casters. What’s great about Tractor Supply is the convenience – chances are there’s one near you. They typically carry a selection of casters suitable for trailers, wagons, and other farm-related equipment. Plus, you can grab some WD-40 while you’re there! A real find to be sure.
Amazon: The Everything Store
Need a caster at 3 AM? Amazon’s got your back (or rather, your wheels). The online retail giant boasts a staggering selection of casters from various brands, often at competitive prices. Just be sure to read the reviews and double-check the specs before you click “buy.” Don’t want to end up with a caster that can barely hold your cat!
Northern Tool: The Workshop Warrior
Northern Tool is another solid choice, especially if you’re looking for something a bit more heavy-duty. They offer a selection of casters designed for workshops, garages, and other demanding environments. Expect to find robust options that can handle some serious weight.
Related Hardware: The Unsung Heroes of Caster Installation
Casters don’t roll solo! They often need a little help from their friends – the related hardware components. Think of them as the support system that ensures your casters are not just attached, but securely, reliably, and optimally connected for the long haul. Let’s dive into these unsung heroes!
Axles: The Backbone of Heavy-Duty Rolling
Ever wonder how those heavy-duty casters manage to support incredible loads? Enter the axle. Axles are essentially rods that run through the center of the wheel, providing a robust point of rotation. They are crucial for applications where casters face significant weight or stress. Without a strong axle, your wheels might wobble, wear out quickly, or even fail catastrophically. Choose axles made from hardened steel for the best durability, especially for industrial or agricultural applications.
Bolts: The Fastening Foundations
Bolts are the workhorses of caster attachment. They are used to secure the caster’s mounting plate to your equipment, cart, or whatever you’re mobilizing. But not just any bolt will do! You’ve got to consider the size, length, and material. Too short, and they won’t fully engage the nut. Too weak, and they might shear under heavy loads. Stainless steel bolts are a great choice for outdoor or corrosive environments, while high-strength steel bolts provide maximum holding power for demanding applications. Always double-check the bolt’s load rating to ensure it matches or exceeds the caster’s capacity!
Nuts: The Bolt’s Trusty Companion
Where there are bolts, there must be nuts! These little fasteners are critical for creating a tight, secure connection. Make sure you match the nut to the bolt’s thread size and material. For applications where vibration is a concern (think rolling over uneven surfaces), consider using locknuts (like nylon insert locknuts or all-metal locknuts). These nuts have a built-in mechanism that prevents them from loosening over time, keeping your casters firmly in place.
Washers: The Pressure Relievers
Washers might seem like small, insignificant discs, but they play a vital role in caster installation. They sit between the bolt head (or nut) and the mounting surface, distributing the pressure evenly. This prevents damage to the mounting surface and reduces the risk of the bolt or nut digging into the material. Washers also help to fill any small gaps or imperfections in the mounting surface, creating a more stable and secure connection. Use flat washers for general applications and lock washers to further prevent loosening.
Mounting Brackets: Adapting to Any Situation
Sometimes, the surface you’re attaching your casters to isn’t ideal. That’s where mounting brackets come in handy. These brackets provide a stable and secure attachment point, especially for equipment with unusual shapes or limited mounting space. They can be welded, bolted, or screwed to the equipment, creating a solid platform for the caster’s mounting plate. Mounting brackets are particularly useful for retrofitting casters to older equipment or adapting them to non-standard applications.
Grease Fittings: Keeping Things Rolling Smoothly
Finally, let’s talk about grease fittings. These small, often overlooked components are essential for maintaining casters and ensuring their longevity. Many casters, particularly those with roller or ball bearings, have grease fittings (also known as zerk fittings). These fittings allow you to inject grease into the bearing, lubricating the moving parts and reducing friction. Regular greasing not only extends the caster’s lifespan but also ensures smooth, quiet, and efficient rolling. Use a grease gun to apply high-quality grease to the fittings periodically, following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Industries Rolling On: Where You’ll Find Casters in Action
You might not always notice them, but casters are the unsung heroes silently wheeling industries forward. From the farm to the factory floor, these little rollers are essential for moving heavy loads, improving efficiency, and generally making life a whole lot easier. Let’s take a look at some of the key sectors that rely heavily on these indispensable components.
Agriculture: Keeping Things Moving Down on the Farm
Down on the farm, mobility is key, and that’s where casters come in. Think about it: farm equipment needs to be moved around for maintenance, trailers need to be easily hitched and maneuvered, and even those trusty ol’ garden carts rely on a good set of wheels. Pneumatic casters, with their air-filled tires, are especially popular in agriculture because they absorb shocks and vibrations, protecting both the equipment and the delicate loads they carry. It’s all about keeping things rolling smoothly, even on rough terrain.
Construction: Building a Better World, One Roll at a Time
Construction sites are bustling hubs of activity, and casters play a vital role in keeping things organized and efficient. From heavy-duty equipment like generators and compressors to scaffolding that needs to be easily moved between work areas, casters provide the mobility needed to get the job done. Heavy-duty casters are a must in this industry, as they can handle the weight and abuse that come with the territory. After all, you don’t want your scaffolding collapsing because of a flimsy set of wheels!
Manufacturing: Streamlining the Production Process
In the world of manufacturing, time is money, and efficient material movement is critical. Casters are used extensively in factories to move raw materials, work-in-progress items, and finished goods. Carts, dollies, and other mobile equipment fitted with casters allow workers to easily transport heavy loads across the factory floor, reducing manual labor and increasing productivity. The right casters can significantly streamline the production process, making it faster, safer, and more cost-effective.
Material Handling: The Backbone of Logistics and Warehousing
Last but certainly not least, casters are absolutely essential in the material handling industry. Warehouses, distribution centers, and other logistics facilities rely on casters to move goods quickly and efficiently. From pallet jacks and forklifts to conveyor systems and mobile shelving, casters are everywhere in this sector. They enable the safe and efficient movement of goods, ensuring that products reach their destinations on time and in good condition. The material handling industry depends so heavily on casters, and the right choice is integral for ensuring the smooth and swift flow of goods from the loading dock to the customer’s doorstep.
Standards and Specifications: Ensuring Quality and Safety
Alright, let’s talk safety and making sure your casters aren’t just rolling along, but doing so reliably and safely. We’re diving into the nitty-gritty of industry standards and why they’re more important than you might think. Think of them as the secret sauce that separates a smooth operation from a potential disaster.
Think of industry standards as your caster’s report card. It’s how you know you’re getting a quality product that won’t let you down. From the materials used to the construction process, these standards ensure your casters meet certain benchmarks for safety, durability, and performance.
Load Ratings: Don’t Be a Load Hog!
This one’s a biggie. Imagine loading up a cart with way more than it can handle – not a pretty picture, right? Exceeding the load rating on your casters is like asking for a wheel-related catastrophe. Always, always stick to the specified load ratings to keep things safe and sound. These ratings are there for a reason and going over them can lead to caster failure, potentially causing injuries or damaging equipment. So, pay attention to those weight limits!
Wheel Hardness: Soft vs. Hard
Ever wondered why some wheels are squishy and others are rock solid? That’s wheel hardness at play. Harder wheels roll easier on smooth surfaces and can handle heavier loads, while softer wheels offer better grip and shock absorption, making them perfect for uneven terrain.
Durometer: Decoding the Hardness Scale
Durometer is the key to unlocking the secrets of wheel hardness. Think of it as a universal language for describing how hard a wheel is. The higher the durometer number, the harder the wheel. It’s usually measured on a scale of 0 to 100, allowing you to compare wheel hardness levels across different manufacturers and types. Selecting the right durometer is crucial for achieving the desired balance between rolling efficiency, grip, and wear resistance.
Bearing Tolerances: Precision Matters
Last but not least, let’s talk about bearing tolerances. This refers to how precisely the bearing components are manufactured. Tighter tolerances mean less wiggle room, resulting in smoother, more reliable operation. Imagine tiny gears meshing perfectly versus grinding against each other – you want that smooth action! Precise bearing tolerances minimize friction and wear, leading to longer-lasting casters and consistent performance.
So, whether you’re souping up your garage setup or just need to get those heavy bins moving, Tractor Supply’s caster collection is worth a look. Swing by, browse around, and you might just find the perfect wheels to get your project rolling!