Halloween Universe
DIY PropsIntermediate

Improving the Haunted Shovel Prop - REMIX!

by VanOaksProps

Embedded from YouTube. This video belongs to its creator; Halloween Universe indexes it as a discovery resource.View original ↗

Difficulty
Intermediate
Est. cost
$30–$80
Length
4:30
Views
16,608
Published
Jun 2021

What this video covers

VanOaksProps revisits a haunted shovel prop originally built five years ago, reworking it to finally match the creator's original vision. The build centers on a wiper motor drive system combined with a heim joint linkage to produce realistic, animated shovel movement. The video is a concise five-minute walkthrough of the upgraded mechanical design and component choices. Credit is given to Eerie Acres Cemetery on YouTube as the original inspiration for the prop concept.

Key takeaways

  • A wiper motor paired with a 12v speed controller drives the shovel's animated movement
  • A heim joint and threaded rod create the mechanical linkage that translates motor rotation into shovel action
  • A Simpson Strong Tie bracket is used as a structural mounting component
  • The build is a second-generation redesign, showing how iterating on a prop improves the final result
  • Inspired by the Eerie Acres Cemetery YouTube channel

Who this is for

Intermediate DIY haunters who want to add a motorized, graveyard-themed animated prop to their yard or cemetery display.

Materials mentioned

  • 12v speed controller
  • 12-inch lantern
  • floral wire
  • Simpson Strong Tie bracket
  • wiper motor
  • female heim joint / rod end
  • 1/4-20 threaded rod

⚠ Safety notes

Use caution with 12v motorized components; ensure all mechanical joints are securely fastened to prevent unexpected movement during operation.

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