Another rookie question.

[jbman]

Hello again folks. Still working on my Power Trak decision, and I wonder if some of you would indulge me and explain yet another thing you have probably explained several times to others already. I am curious and don't quite understand the reason for PT using wheel motors instead of a more typical drivetrain arrangement. I didn't even know about the wheel motors until I started reading here. The wheel motors seem, to me, to be kind of a weak link in that I see discussions on the power of them, etc. I'm sure there is a logical reason for the setup used on the PT, but I don't know it. I hope this question doesn't have you all rolling your eyes and earning me a reputation as a dolt for the rest of my future here, but I just had to ask.

Thanks all,
Jim

 

[johara1]

i would say cost, and they produce mine equipment.you can see where they are much the same design.wheel motor are not bad,infact the pt. is easy to work on and up grade if you want.....jim

 

[BobRip]

The use of hydraulic wheel motors has its pluses in the easy transmission of power to various sections of the machine. It also transfers most of the power of a slipping wheel to the wheel on the opposite corner. It also makes repairs easier (unbolt a wheel motor, disconnect hoses, and then install a new or rebuilt motor). It also allows for infinitely variable speed and good torque at zero speed without clutch wear.

A transmission failure on a conventional vechicle is a major issue, on the Power Tracs its a hose replacement. Take you old hose to NAPA or a hydraulic shop and they will make you a new one.

Yes there are torque limits, and as a consequence I recommend the PT425 or bigger if you have steep hills or plan to do a lot of digging with the bucket.

The PTs are very compact vehicles that can run rings around conventional tractors on many task and lift a higher percentage of their weight. A lot of this comes from the hydraulics. (IMHO)
I have found I get the PT stuck in the same places that I got my Kubota stuck. It's not the torque that usually limits you, but traction ( I have some swampy areas).
I would like more torque on my 422 and may replace the wheel motors or upgrade to a 425 or 1430 in 3 years (at least that's my plan).

 

[Phils]

A major IMO reason is because of the articulation and twisting that the two body sections go through. A mechanical link for the 4wd from front to rear would be expensive at the least, and troublesome at the worst.

Phil

 

[jbman]

Thanks very much for the info folks. I'm definately in favor of less complicated, easier to repair. The torque issue still nags me a little bit, but with all the jobs you all manage with these machines, they certainly must have adequate torque. I suspect I will be pleasantly surprised when I make it to Tazewell for the demo.

Thanks again very much for taking the time to explain these things, very much appreciate it.
Jim

 

[BobRip]

Despite wanting more torque (what guys does not), I am very happy with what I can do with the PT. There is always a way to get the job done. You just have to use several different attachments (they are easy to change) and a little ingenuity.

 

[jbman]

Yep, I think I have read enough here to believe that between the compact size, the maneuverablity, and above all, the ease of implement change, for my purposes it is the best I can do. I think I am convinced, now I have to manage to get these old rusty hinges on my wallet to open. Won't make a decision between the 422 and 425 till I see the differences. I am hoping to go with the 422 because I just don't need to be spending any more than I have to these days, but I'll be trying very hard to judge them fairly without bias once I get there.

Jim

Despite wanting more torque (what guys does not), I am very happy with what I can do with the PT. There is always a way to get the job done. You just have to use several different attachments (they are easy to change) and a little ingenuity.

 

[BAGTIC]

I think one advantage of the wheel motors vs. drive shafts is the lower center of gravity. Also, no open vulnerable shafts underneath. I can't tell you how many times I have been high center on a log. It is an inconvenience but never any danger of damaging anything.