How does an HST compare in pulling power with the same tractor and a gear trans?

[Egon]

I don't find that to be accurate but you are entitled to your opinion, just like I am.

There are also times the when the load is moving and traction gets lost that with the HST you can back off but keep the rpm’s and available torque up.

 

[rScotty]

So what is the difference in performance between a gear and a hydro powering a "stationary" PTO driven such as a wood chipper?

Most PTOs are gear driven regardless of whether the tractor's transmission is gear or HST. So no difference.

 

[rScotty]

Back when HSTs first came out on utility and compact tractors the concerns were reliability, repairabilty, and expense.

Are any of these still a concern?

rScotty

 

[Cycledude]

For my use HST is definitely the best option, front loader, rear snowblower, rear 3point hookup blade,rear 5 foot Woods Dixie cutter.

Way to many folks buy a tractor that’s simply not big enough for the job.

 

[Sawyer Rob]

Most PTOs are gear driven regardless of whether the tractor's transmission is gear or HST. So no difference.

I don't agree... There may not be a lot of difference, but the fact that the hydro tractor has to drive a bigger pump, robs a little hp from engine/PTO whether the tractor is moving or not.

SR

 

[npalen]

I don't agree... There may not be a lot of difference, but the fact that the hydro tractor has to drive a bigger pump, robs a little hp from engine/PTO whether the tractor is moving or not.

SR

But does that hydro, since it is destroked, consume any more power than a gear drive when the clutch is engaged and transmission in park or neutral? Case in point is disengaging the clutch when starting a geared tractor in cold weather.

 

[oosik]

If you will doing a "task" that is so very close to the edge of max power on a tractor that gear drive vs hydro will make a difference. Perhaps it's best if you bump up a size or two.

 

[JethroB]

But does that hydro, since it is destroked, consume any more power than a gear drive when the clutch is engaged and transmission in park or neutral? Case in point is disengaging the clutch when starting a geared tractor in cold weather.

And is there enough HP loss that most would even notice? I would think few even identical models generate the same exact power.

4-5 HP? Isn’t that about what A/C draws? No biggie unless you are already at the low end of power.

 

[Redlands Okie]

When I was looking at the manufacture specifications for like model tractors and engines. Those with HST were normally listed with less pto horse power. It was a factor in selecting which tractor model I bought since HST was a requirement for me.

On a 35 horsepower tractor a few horse power makes a definite difference on using pto attachments. I am running a 6 foot brush hog with 35 horsepower. In thick stuff I normally run in 2 wheel drive to get just a bit more power out of the end of the PTO. It’s easy to tell the difference.

 

[wolc123]

When it comes time to decide between a hydro and gear transmission, think of the letter “L” for the hydro. They are better for lawn mowing, loader work, and landscaping.

For most other usage, especially ground engaging work and work that requires lots of pto power, the gear is better.