Toy wagon facts for kids
A toy wagon is like a smaller version of a big wagon. It usually has an open top and can carry one child. You pull it with a handle at the front. Some famous brands include Radio Flyer, Red Rider, and Speedway Express.
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How Toy Wagons Are Built
The basic design of toy wagons hasn't changed much since the late 1800s. They are usually held together with several bolts. The back wheels typically have four bolts. The front wheels might have different setups depending on how the wagon steers.
Wagon Wheels and Materials
Wagon wheels can be made from different materials. Some have air-filled tires, like bicycle tires. Others use hard rubber or hard plastic. Toy wagons themselves are made from various materials. You can find them made entirely of plastic, or from wood, aluminum, or steel.
Handles and Rust
The handle of a wagon can also come in different shapes. Some are shaped like a "T," others like a "D," and some have a round grip at the end. A common problem with metal wagons is rust. To help prevent this, wagons are often painted with outdoor paint. However, over time, metal wagons can still get a bit worn and might start to rust.
Wagons for Outdoor Tasks
People also use wagons for small jobs outside, not just for play. Companies like Northern Tool and Lowe's make wagons especially for outdoor work. These wagons are often a different color than red and are usually made of strong metal. They are also typically bigger and cost more than toy wagons.
What Utility Wagons Carry
Utility wagons are helpful for moving things like dirt, wood chips, mulch, or gravel. They are also useful in gardening for moving plants around. There are even special "nursery wagons" designed for professional gardeners. These wagons often have bottoms that let dirt and water drain through, which is good for plants and pots in a greenhouse.
Advanced Wagons
Some wagons can even help you move camping gear or boxes. You can find utility wagons that have small motors, so they can move heavy loads on bumpy ground by themselves. These motorized wagons often have a cargo bed that can tilt, making it easier to dump out whatever you're carrying. This feature is very useful for small farms. Some companies even make huge wagons with eight wheels, often handmade from wood.
Famous Wagon Monuments
In 1997, the company Radio Flyer created a giant wagon. This huge wagon was built to celebrate Radio Flyer's 80th anniversary. It was 27 feet (about 8 meters) long and 13 feet (about 4 meters) wide. This impressive wagon weighs 15,000 pounds (about 6,800 kilograms) and is made of steel.
