What Is an MFWD Drive?
by Michael McGrath
Tractors require four-wheel drive, but standard four-by-four systems don't work when front wheels are smaller than rear wheels. The solution lies with a special four-by-four system known as MFWD.
Definition
MFWD stands for mechanical front-wheel drive. Mechanical front-wheel drive provides four-by-four capabilities to tractors with different-sized front and rear wheels.
Reasons for MFWD
Standard four-wheel drive assumes four equally sized wheels. Tractors with different sized wheels cannot use standard four-wheel drive, as the smaller front wheels would turn faster than the rear wheels.
Mechanics
A mechanical front-wheel drive tractor has two axles -- one for the rear wheels and one for the front. The rear axle provides power for most jobs. A button in the cab engages the front axle when extra traction or power is needed.
Writer Bio
Michael McGrath's experience as a Web content writer extends back to 1995, after receiving his Master of Arts in English at the University of Alberta. His articles on medical information, travel tips, parrot care and online gaming appear on Tree.com.
