6wd - chain path revisited

[JHSmentor]

Okay - to summarize the inputs so far:
1. having 1 chain - you risk loosing that whole side of the drive train if you pop a chain or it breaks.

2. Love the chain tensioner design by Team 228 as a static chain tensioner.

3. Most seem to like the live axle for the center wheel (or one of the wheels depending on weight distribution).


So, a couple specific questions:
1. how about a self adjusting tensioner (spring loaded)? Has anyone had success with these?

2. If you directly connect one wheel to the gearbox output, then your top speed is regulated by the gearbox - correct? we will be using the Kit ToughBox gearboxes - how much of a limitation is this? seems like being able to change the spockets on the wheels would allow for some fine tuning of the speed and torque of the robot. Using a 3 chain design might work best for this?

thx again.

Bryan