[Fig. 7] shows the drag with the doubletree attached, and therefore it shows the position of the team drawing the drag with respect to the drag itself. The diagonal brace between the two heavy timbers near the forward end is used to keep the end of the timber which travels ahead from vibrating. The chain by which this device is drawn may be attached directly to the front timber or it may be extended through holes in this timber and be attached to the timber in the rear. If, instead of passing through the hole A ([Fig. 9].) the chain is carried over this timber and attached to the timber B, more room will thus be made for earth in front of the drag to slide under the chain.
Plank Road Drag
Fig. 9
The angle the sides of the drag make with the direction of the road can be varied at pleasure by attaching the doubletree to different links of the chain.
The teamster will soon learn by experience that changing his position as he rides on the drag will affect the work of the drag very materially, and he will soon learn also how and when to change his position in order to obtain the best results.
Importance of Using Drag.
The proper and best use of this drag or the careful maintenance of the ordinary earth road is perhaps the most important lesson in “roads” Utah people have to learn at this time. It is more important than the actual grading or construction of these roads.
When to Use Drag.
This drag should be used upon the road after every heavy rain and after every big thaw as faithfully as the successful dry-farmer harrows his crop at these same times.