On some Characteristics of a Front Wheel driven Tricycle Type Tractor

Abstract

In this paper authors have surveyed some performances of “Ridemaster” as an example of a tricycle tractor and observed some merits of this type as follows.
Generally speaking, in this type of tractor, the compromise between increment of drawbar power and ease of steering is rather difficult. In order to increase the pull power, the center of gravity is located very near to the front wheel, so that the steering is very heavy but accurate, and that the road holding is fairly excellent, however, in spite of that, the drawbar power is rather less than ordinary rear driven tractor especially at plowed land.
Like other three wheelers, Ridemaster has poor stability for overturning. In addition to that the center of gravity displaces according as the heavy front block of tractor turns when the handle is steered, this apt to cause the danger of overturning (See fig. 2).
However, if we should notice these characteristics, this tractor may be convenient because of low initial cost and ease of handling derived from the simplicity of construction, and because of accuracy of steering with the application of front wheel drive system. And this type of tractor is evaluated to be suited for commercial growing and other light farm operation.