I've been using a Gates industrial belt, (AX50-30) and it would stall the motor before it slipped.
I'm beginning to really like your idea of the double belts and a tensioner. I think the hardware for that is readily available and I think I have he space to do that. I have a couple tensioner pulleys on hand that should work.
I don't know what to make of the problem with the hydro. I'm going to replace it. If it were working, the output should spin with the drill. It's not. The other (front axle) hydro does. Other hydros I have used a drill on all work under drill power.
That said, my curiosity has me wanting to know why it doesn't work, as you've said, there are only so many parts and they all seem OK. Blocked oil passage in the cover? Maybe I'll remove the bottom pipe plugs and relief valves and check that out.
As for the drive (pump/motor) to hydro(pump/motor) arrangement I was willing to accept the efficiency losses to achieve durability and reliability--no more belts to fail or change. I even thought about a pair of right angle gear boxes.
I really appreciate all your comments, Ambush. Sometimes it takes another person looking at the issue from a different perspective to solve the problem.
__________________
|