Gear Drive VS. Belt Drive ???

beyoungsr

New member
Would like some input for or against gear drive vs. belt drive. What is the typical life of a gear box? Does g.d. require a lot of sevice? Is g.d. any louder than b.d.?
How long does a typical belt last? Is the belt an over the couter part?Life of pulley and or bearings?
Are bearings over the counter items?
Is it possible for one engine to run dual pulleys for two pumps and be effective?
 
usually belt drive pumps rotate slower than a gear box so theoreticly the belt drive pump should last longer. I run belt drive and have never had to replace a belt. you can get belts at your local auto parts house. you probably could run two pumps off of one motor but it would have to have alot of hp/torque.
 
gera reduction allows for a slower turning large frame pump to be put on an engine/motor.

In general they are a better choice than direct drive but not as good as belt drive. They are still mechanically connected to the engine/motor and their own oil resevoir with seals. Therefore you must ensure the seal integrity and check the oil level every day. They also allow for a conductive transfer of heat from the engine/motor to the pump.

Belt drive mechanically decouples the two components. Run cooler as there is no conductive heat transfer. Require little if any reguar maintenance. Can allow for over-pumping and under-driving. IE; we use a General 1321 pump for 3.6 GPM at 2000 PSI. The pump is rated at 5.6 GPM at 2100 PSI at 1150 RPM so we run it at 770 RPM. Shoould last a real long time.

Hope this helps and remember to deal with a local professional pressure washer dealer. The advice is usually free and the business you support may even sponsor your children's soccer team.

Cheers.
 
Gear Drive Hs improved
Would like some input for or against gear drive vs. belt drive. What is the typical life of a gear box? Does g.d. require a lot of sevice? Is g.d. any louder than b.d.?
How long does a typical belt last? Is the belt an over the couter part?Life of pulley and or bearings?
Are bearings over the counter items?
Is it possible for one engine to run dual pulleys for two pumps and be effective?
 
I am happy with my gear drives. They allow for easy upgrade and fit in less space. Belts are the best for longevity though. If you are looking for a skid go with belts, but if you are converting direct drive units it is easier to go with gear drives. If you are truck mounting or trying to squeeze a lot in small space again I would say Gear Drive. Yes you have to check your oil but only takes a second with the sight glass.
 
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