Does any one have experience with R1 2wd vs R4 4wd traction? I am considering a new tractor with 4wd for loader work. I currently have R1s with 2wd which work good for plowing and blading. Will R4s on a 4wd give as much traction as R1s on a 2wd?
R1 2wd vs R4 4wd
- Thread starter Panache
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JerryG
Super Member
Even with the lower traction of the R4s, you will have more traction with 4wd than with a 2wd with R1s.
I think Jerry is right. You can rather plan to have about 20% more traction when 4WD is engaged, if not more.
Is there a particular reason you wouldn't go with the R1s? I find the R4s to be a great compromise between Ags and Turfs as regards destruction of grass. I have yet to be really compromised because I had the industrials instead of the ags, but I don't know what all you'll be doing.
If you're going to be in muck a lot, you can plan on R4s filling up the lugs pretty quickly, and they don't drop it out as easily as R1s do in my opinion. But you probably know that even R1s can muck up enough to start losing their traction, and you'd be in the same boat.
John
Is there a particular reason you wouldn't go with the R1s? I find the R4s to be a great compromise between Ags and Turfs as regards destruction of grass. I have yet to be really compromised because I had the industrials instead of the ags, but I don't know what all you'll be doing.
If you're going to be in muck a lot, you can plan on R4s filling up the lugs pretty quickly, and they don't drop it out as easily as R1s do in my opinion. But you probably know that even R1s can muck up enough to start losing their traction, and you'd be in the same boat.
John
I do not get in much muck. I have been doing much more loader work and my R1s have been taking a beating. I am planning a new tractor and am considering R4s. Most of my roads are good gravel and the tire wear is starting to show. I wanted to make sure I would get at least as much traction as I have now. I should have more some times.
Thanks.
Thanks.
JerryG
Super Member
On concrete or hard pack you will get more traction with the R4 tire and it will wear better. On anything else the R1 will have more traction.
you need to know that using 4WD on hard surfaces is not recommended. There needs to be some tire slip or damage can occur. It will be in the owner's manual.
On gravel, that shouldn't be a problem as the fronts will be able to slip, but on concrete or asphalt you need to be in 2WD.
John
On gravel, that shouldn't be a problem as the fronts will be able to slip, but on concrete or asphalt you need to be in 2WD.
John
daTeacha
Veteran Member
Basic rule of thumb is to use RWD until you start to slip, then bring the MFWD on line. It's easier on the tires and most mechanical parts due to the lead built into the gear ratios for the front end.
</font><font color="blue" class="small">( Basic rule of thumb is to use RWD until you start to slip, then bring the MFWD on line. It's easier on the tires and most mechanical parts due to the lead built into the gear ratios for the front end. )</font>
I'm sure you're referring to more than just slip, actually losing traction altogether right? The front wheel drive really shouldn't be used at all on hard surfaces.
John
I'm sure you're referring to more than just slip, actually losing traction altogether right? The front wheel drive really shouldn't be used at all on hard surfaces.
John