<nerd> That’s Caterpillar’s patented High Drive. By moving the drive sprocket up like that, it no longer has to carry the weight of the machine, nor move with the suspension. That allows more torque and more reliability from the mechanism. It also gives more space for bigger planetary gears, which again increases reliability. It also improves serviceability, as many drive train repairs can be made without removing outboard hydraulics, blades, or sometimes even the track chain. Overall a very clever design. </nerd>
15 Likes
