A few gearbox questions

[NoodleKnight]

Originally Posted by colt527

1.) Are we really getting the full benefits of combining the 2 motors into one side because we are using the drill motor transmission supplied by the KOP. To me, it just doesnt make sence. As soon as the drill motor's transmission's clutch starts to click, the drill motors are not supplying any force any torque and its just like running the CIMs by themselves.

The drill-transmission clutches can be set to the fully-locked setting, its that symbol past the highest number. If you geared it correctly and the motors are running in the same direction, you will benefit from increased power.

Originally Posted by colt527

2.) Is it really hazardous to the drill motors to put the transmission in direct drive. We have burnt many a drill motor before but if the CIMs are helping it out, should this really be a concern?

No, many teams have done it, just make sure you properly matched the speeds between motors as well as other minor things, like gear alignment and such. We've never really burnt a drill motor, we have melted the plastic brush housings and solder off of the leads. But usually a fan blowing over the drill fixes everything.

Originally Posted by colt527

3.) We are currently running all the motors through 30amp breakers because we did not have another 40 fuse box lying around. Could this cause problems?

Not really, not until your motors start to stall and reach over 30 amps which is when the breakers will start cutting out. Nothing bad is going to happen to the motors.

Originally Posted by colt527

4.) Is it possible to burn out the CIMs, if stall amperage is 50amp and its running through 30amp fuses.

Nope, that's what's the breakers are for, to protect your motors and electronics. They'll trip before the CIM reaches the 50amp stall current. Now, if you bypassed the entire thing and ran the CIM at stall for a long time, sure you'll burn it out, all motors will if you did.