front wheel drive?

[Deleted]

Hi there all RT's,
I am going to build a trike so I can ride it from my electric wheelchair. At this stage my idea is to use a 4 cylinder opposed petrol motor and automatic gearbox in the one unit. Basically a frond end off a car with steering attached. Giving an area behind the motor for a platform to park my chair on.
I would enter the platform via a lowered ramp to the side. The curb side to the left for me here in Australia.The single wheel behind will be a automotive wheel and stub axle, mounter to the rear of the sub frame on a bushed shaft and sprung either using heavy motorcycle spring shocks or a automotive all in one spring shock.
My main question for those with experience is, how will it handle, being front wheel drive.
Most RT's are either shaft driven or chain driven using the read wheel. This would be my preference, but I don't want any reason for my to be higher than need be.
I would welcome any input.
Cheers Sharky

[srx660]

Welcome to the board, Sharky.

Using a front wheel drive auto platform is a excellent start for a trike. First it puts the weight more in a balance to where you can build the back half like you want with a equal weight on all the wheels. The only problem i have seen is when people try adapting a-arm suspension to the strut type front suspension on most FWD cars. It can be frustrating trying to get things right. Using struts usually means having a high front end body. Of course it depends on how you like to drive. Some people like sports car type low driving position, and other like the sit on top position similar to the "one front wheel" trikes.

a good place to look is at:
www.3wheelers.com/

and
reversetrike.com/

I do have some pictures and will post them when i get home.

SRX660

[Giovanni LiCalsi]

A Honda Civic would be the best candidate!
Regards,
John

[Deleted]

I also am interested in a front wheel drive VWTDI with an automatic. I am new to this so I will just have to learn. skip

[Deleted]

I am interested in info on a VW TDI automatic RT any info would be welcome thanks skip