gear motor vs differential for larger models?

[thetractorfan]

Originally Posted by carp

Been thinking of building a loading shovel in 1/8 but not sure whether to go with gear motors or build an axle/diff/gearbox setup does either method have advantages or disadvantages? beside the obvious 2speed gearbox?

It depends on the machine. A gear motor would work better because of the better mounting capabilities. Besides, using gears and differentials will require some lubrication and a few grits of sand can cause serious damage if they get inside. I would go with either clutches or motors. With gears, you will need more bearings and other components to keep it from failing. It only takes a tiny bit or sand or dirt to eat up your bearings or gears.