[JVN]

We had this same debate.

Decision?
We decided to shift as early on in the gearbox as possible. (After all the motor combiner reductions and such). Basically, the reasoning behind this was, there is less torque applied to each shaft/gear at this end of the gearbox (higher speed = lesser torque). This means our shifter pins/dogs/whatever would be put under less load.

Problems with this?
We were worried that the high speed associated with this part of the box would cause our shifter to "grind" and not engage nicely. Some argued that perhaps at a slower speed, the dog/pin/whatever would engage "nicer".

Results?
She shifts beautifully from low to high, on the fly. She's not as fond of dropping from high to low while at full speed, but we're not worried about that as much.

She does make a nice little grinding noise as she jumps into gear, but, no damage or visible wear has occurred on our shifter dog, and the whole box seems to be functioning almost flawlessly.
*knock on wood*


Good luck to anyone attempting this. If you email me, or IM me, I'd be more than willing to share experiences, or help out with any drive design questions.


John

PS - The Technokitten Tranny shifts right after the motors combine (Andy has it shifting even earlier than mine does). They then go through another reduction afterward. In 2003, this additional reduction was mounted seperate from the main gearbox, and located on their tread assembly. The output from this secondary box turns their tread (direct drive). No chain.