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Unread 19-03-2008, 21:37
EricVicenti EricVicenti is offline
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Re: how does one go about making a 6 wheel config drivetrain?

Quote:
Originally Posted by AndyB View Post
So you just added tread right over the flat gum surface? Interesting... Too simple to be true it seems.

How did it work out?
The feeling you are getting is partially substantiated. The problem with that solution is the middle wheel has slightly larger diameter, but rotate at the same speed as the outer wheels, so they are bound to scrub a little because the middle wheels move slightly faster than your outer wheels.

6WD drivetrains are designed to rock back and forth a lot, and this should eliminate any and all issues you might have with this. If you are pushing the carpet into itself, you will just rock some more. Additionally, the change in diameter will only change the circumference by a slight amount, (~5-10%). I am sure any effects are completely negligible.

I should note that we did the exact same thing. We were having troubles turning at Portland (heavy bot, only 1/8" lowered, carpet), so we screwed on tread to our colsons at SVR, and we turn much better, although we rock back and forth a lot now.
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Last edited by EricVicenti : 19-03-2008 at 21:39.