Gearing & Torque: Can My Tricycle Motor Get the Job Done?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the torque issues faced by a participant who has modified a tricycle with a motor and is exploring gear configurations to improve performance. The focus is on the mechanics of gearing and torque in this specific application.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes their setup with a 4in sprocket on the axle and a motor with a 6in sprocket, questioning if a chain configuration involving a 1in sprocket would yield the necessary torque.
  • Another participant suggests that the proposed configuration would not increase torque, indicating that the 6in gear acts as an idler and recommending a different approach involving a reduction gear setup.
  • A later reply acknowledges the suggestion and expresses understanding of the need for a different configuration to achieve the desired torque.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants appear to disagree on the effectiveness of the initial proposed configuration for achieving the desired torque, with one participant asserting it will not work and another acknowledging this perspective.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes assumptions about gear ratios and their impact on torque, but specific calculations or detailed mechanics are not fully resolved.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in mechanical engineering, specifically in gear systems and torque applications in modified vehicles.

drwly
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I have put together a tricycle, but it only allows for a 4in sprocket on the axel. I have added a motor to the tricycle and do not get enough torque. The motor came with a 6in sprocket, which will not fit on the axil.
My idea is to set it up so the chain goes from the motor 1in to the 6in to the 4in in one continuous loop. WILL this get me the torque I should be getting?
 
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drwly said:
I have put together a tricycle, but it only allows for a 4in sprocket on the axel. I have added a motor to the tricycle and do not get enough torque. The motor came with a 6in sprocket, which will not fit on the axil.
My idea is to set it up so the chain goes from the motor 1in to the 6in to the 4in in one continuous loop. WILL this get me the torque I should be getting?
Welcome to the PF.

Can you use the UPLOAD button at the lower right to post a couple pictures of what you are trying to do? :smile:
 
here is the bicycle basic drawing.
 

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  • bycycle gearing.jpg
    bycycle gearing.jpg
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drwly said:
here is the bicycle basic drawing.
This configuration will not gain you the torque that you are looking for. The 6" gear in the center appears to be acting as a large idler. To increase the torque you would need to run from the small gear at the right side of your drawing to a larger one on the "idler shaft" this would then create a reduction gear of sorts. Than on the same idler shaft have a parallel smaller gear which is connected to the final shaft on the left side of the drawing.
To do the calculation on this one needs to take each pair independently first and then calculate the final ratio using the two reductions.
 
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Thanks I rather figured that's the way it would be.
Drwly
 

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