Drive system
Variable speed drive

Variable speed drive

On the Gator™ TX Turf, power is transmitted from the engine through a continuously variable clutch system to a transaxle and finally to the rear axle.
 
Key elements of the drive system are as follows:
1) Variable speed drive
 
Consists of two clutches and a drive belt:
  • Drive clutch is attached to the engine
  • Driven clutch is attached to the transaxle
Features include:
  • Infinite selection of speeds from 0 to 15.5 mph (0 to 25 km/h)
  • Easy operation
  • No shifting necessary as operator increases speed
  • Adjusts speed to the load to avoid bogging down when going up a hill or through muddy conditions
Clutches are tuned to provide engine braking when going downhill.
 
How variable speed drive works:
Variable speed drive functionality

Variable speed drive functionality

1) As engine speed increases, the drive clutch is closed by weights being forced out from centrifugal force.
2) As the drive clutch closes, the belt rides up to the largest diameter of the drive clutch and forces open the driven clutch.
3) With the belt running in the smallest diameter of the driven clutch, the speed being transferred to transaxle is increased.
4) The driven clutch is designed to sense varying loads (inclines, mud, etc.) and constantly adjusts drive speed upward or downward so that engine rpm remains constant.
2) Transaxle
 
Fully enclosed and runs in oil for reliability.
 
Differential design reduces scuffing of the turf during turns because the inside wheels turn slower than the outside wheels (other vehicles that have a solid axle shaft must skid inside wheel when making a turn).
 
Helical gears are used for quiet operation.
 
Neutral start safety interlock for engine ignition system.
 
3) Heavy-duty rear-axle housings
 
Large, sealed bearings are located inside the housing for better protection.
One-piece forged axles are splined for maximum strength.
  • Large sealed bearings for better protection and load-carrying capabilities
  • Forged-splined shaft for increased torsional strength
  • Nodular cast-iron housing for increased durability
 
Last Updated : 03-Aug-2010