This topic always seems to get debate. The same debate occurs with the "big" IH's and the Torque Amplifier. (Similar topic) I'm not trying to debate, but I can explain torque and how it affects the driveline. But I too have some questions about some previous statements.
I agree, that IH mostly had in mind that adding a creeper would give the operator more gear selections, and that the main purpose was to slow the tractor down. I however contend, that IH would not have put a gear reduction drive on the machine if it couldn't handle the load given it. That said, I do not argue that it is the weak link in the "chain" of the drive train.
Lets do it this way.
For this equation there can be several variables, so lets set some hard number to use. Let's assume that a stock Kohler K301 (12HP) is capable of producing 20 ftlbs of torque. (I'm sure that is high, but 20 is an easy number to work with, and I couldn't find an exact number.) Lets also assume that we can get all power from the engine to the ground. (No wheel slip.)
*Disclaimer: If I get a trans ratio incorrect, forgive me. It will change the results yes, but doesn't really change the point.
Now, 20ftlbs going into the creeper then becomes 80ftlbs because it is a 4:1 ratio. Going on to gear reduction drive, a ratio of 6:1 and now that torque becomes 480 ftlbs. Through first gear, 3:1, 1440 ftlbs. Ring and pinion, 4.6:1, 6624 ftlbs. Now comparatively without the creeper, in to out is 20ftlbs in, 1656ftlbs out. WOW! Quite a difference!
Now we all know that you would never be able to get all that torque to the ground, and even if you did, something is going to break. IH knew you couldn't get it ALL there, so no big deal. So.... here is the deal. Torque goes backward through the drivetrain as well as it does the other way. That engine only produces torque when it is put under a load. So the driveline only can withstand as much load as traction will allow, and as much torque as the motor can produce. The load on the driveshaft is the same, creeper or not, because the motor can only produce "X" amount of torque. Once again, I state, that I do not argue that a creeper is the weak link when in use. When it is not in use I cannot see how, unless it is not in tip top shape, that is would be any different than direct drive (no creeper).
Which brings me to my questions.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Merk
12 horse power is the largest engine that IH Cub Cadet came with.
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For my clarity I assume that you are referring to the largest engine in a gear drive?
Quote:
Originally Posted by Merk
We had a gent that had a creeper in his 100 at plow day. By the end of the day the creeper was making some funny/strange sounds. When he removed the creeper it came out in parts. You loose the drirect link to the tranns with a creeper in the driveline.
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How could that be? If you are running the creeper in direct drive, it
IS a direct link from the driveline to the trans, minus a few extra "spirol" (or solid steel, whatever) pins? I don't see the difference....
I state again, I'm not tying to start a debate, or an argument. I agree a creeper is a weak link, but I don't buy the argument that when installed it is any more prone to break when not in use. Or the argument that it won't handle loads.
As far a tractor pulling is concerned, that is a different ball game. With
A LOT of variables. As stated wheel speed is
VERY important in pulling, so that is why they don't use them. You need power
AND speed when tractor pulling. It's like getting a running start. More momentum.