Three Years of Experience with a New Transmission Concept for Large Front-End Loaders

The following paper outlines the experience with ten of the new turbo reversing transmissions in 12 cu.yd. loaders after more than 6000 hours of operation.

Loaders of 11/12 cu. yd. capacity are normally equipped with power shift transmissions employing disc clutches for reversing.

The transmission first introduced in the Clark 475 C loader replaces mechanical clutches by three torque converters engaged and disengaged by filling and draining with oil. Shifting without torque peaks increases both the life of the transmission and the whole powertrain.

An optimum split of engine power between traction and hydraulics is achieved without wear at constant engine speed resulting in higher productivity during truck loading

The torque converter for the opposite direction of travel can be used as a retarded when working on ramps and to avoid overspeeding.