Subtopic: Type, selection, maintenance and repair of tractors and power tillers
Question Statement:
Which of the following design and operational features are characteristic of two-wheel walking power tillers?
Options:
(A) Steering is accomplished by independent left and right dog clutches or multi-plate steering clutches that disengage drive to the respective wheel
(B) The rotary tiller tines rotate in the direction of travel (down-cut), generating forward thrust that assists machine propulsion
(C) V-belt drives are widely used for primary power transmission between the engine and transmission box to act as a clutch and absorb shock loads
(D) Power tillers utilize an open epicyclic differential with hydraulic brakes for steering
Answer Key:
A, B, C
Step-by-Step Solution & Explanation
- **A is correct:** Steering dog clutches disengage the inner wheel drive, allowing the outer driving wheel to pivot the machine.
- **B is correct:** Down-cut rotavating blade impact pushes the machine forward, easing operator tractive effort in wet paddy puddle.
- **C is correct:** Idler pulley belt tensioners act as main clutches and cushion shock loads.
- **D is incorrect:** Power tillers have no differential; they use two independent jaw/dog steering clutches on the axle shafts.