In the world of heavy-duty machinery, it’s not just about raw power.
It’s about controlled, usable force.
This is where the gear reducer, or réducteur, becomes the unsung hero. It’s the critical component that expertly transforms high-speed, low-torque power from a motor into the low-speed, high-torque muscle needed to do serious work.
Among these vital components, the RCV 162 series stands out as a robust and widely-used gearbox in some of the most demanding agricultural and industrial settings.
This article serves as the most accessible technical resource you’ll find online. We move beyond dense manufacturer datasheets to provide clear specifications, practical application notes, and an actionable maintenance guide.
The RCV 162 is a specialized industrial drivetrain part. To see how these principles apply to the automotive world, read our Essential Guide to Engine & Drivetrain Performance Parts.
1 RCV 162 Gearbox: At a Glance
For engineers and technicians who need the data now, this table provides a snapshot of the key performance indicators for a representative RCV 162-type gearbox.
| Specification | Metric Value | Imperial Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gearbox Type | In-line Helical Gear Reducer | In-line Helical Gear Reducer | Known for efficiency and high torque capacity. |
| Max Input Speed | Up to 2800 min-1 (rpm) | Up to 2800 rpm | Varies based on gear ratio and load. |
| Output Torque (Mn2) | Up to 37 Nm @ 900 rpm | ~27.3 lb-ft @ 900 rpm | Torque is a function of input speed and ratio. |
| Gear Ratios | 3.70:1 and higher | 3.70:1 and higher | A wide range is available to suit specific tasks. |
| Housing Material | Cast Iron or Aluminum | Cast Iron or Aluminum | Cast iron for rigidity; aluminum for lighter weight. |
| Typical Oil Type | Synthetic Gear Oil | Synthetic Gear Oil | Refer to manufacturer for specific viscosity (e.g., 75W-80). |
| Common Applications | Agricultural Spreaders, Conveyors | Agricultural Spreaders, Conveyors | Ideal for PTO-driven and industrial machinery. |
NOTE: The RCV 162 designation is used by multiple manufacturers, including Varmec. The specifications above are representative examples. Always consult the official datasheet from the specific manufacturer, such as Comer Industries or Varmec, for your exact unit.
2 What is a Reducteur RCV 162? An Engineer’s Overview
At its core, the RCV 162 is an industrial gear reducer.
A powerhouse of mechanical engineering designed for one primary purpose: power transmission.
It takes the energy from a power source—typically a PTO shaft from a tractor or an industrial electric motor—and modifies it. Specifically, it reduces the rotational speed, which in turn multiplies the torque.
This torque multiplier effect is what allows a machine to spread heavy fertilizer or move materials along a conveyor belt without stalling the engine.
The “RCV” designation typically points to an in-line helical gear reducer. “Helical” refers to the angled cut of the gear teeth, a design that allows for smoother, quieter operation and a greater contact area compared to straight-cut spur gears.
This means better load distribution and a longer operational lifespan, which are critical in the industries where this gearbox is a common sight.
3 The Function of a Right-Angle Gear Reducer
Many agricultural and industrial machines require power to be transmitted at a 90-degree angle.
Think of a manure spreader being pulled by a tractor; the tractor’s PTO shaft is horizontal, but the spreader’s mechanism (the beaters or spinners) may need to rotate on a vertical axis.
A right-angle gearbox makes this change in direction possible.
This is achieved using bevel gears, which are cone-shaped gears designed to mesh at an angle. In a right-angle gearbox, these are the first point of contact, efficiently turning the power “around a corner.”
From there, subsequent helical gear stages perform the speed reduction and torque multiplication. This combination of directional change and power amplification makes the right-angle gearbox an indispensable component in equipment design.
4 Technical Specifications of the Comer Industries RCV 162
While Comer Industries is a global leader in agricultural and industrial gearboxes, pinning down a single, universal datasheet for a model designated “RCV 162” can be challenging.
Similar designations are used across the industry.
However, by examining representative models, we can establish a clear technical profile. This section breaks down the core specifications you’ll need for procurement, replacement, or system integration.
5 Torque Ratings, Power (HP/kW), and Gear Ratios
These three specifications are the holy trinity of gearbox performance.
Torque (Nm or lb-ft): This is the rotational force the gearbox can deliver. For an RCV 162-type gearbox, the output torque is highly dependent on the input speed and the gear ratio.
For example, a model with a 3.70:1 ratio at a 900 rpm input speed can produce around 37 Nm of torque.
Power (HP/kW): This indicates the rate at which the gearbox can do work. It’s a function of torque and speed.
An RCV 162 is typically designed to handle power inputs ranging from fractional horsepower up to 50+ kW (or ~70 HP), depending on the specific build and application.
Gear Ratio (i): This is the ratio of input speed to output speed. A ratio of 3.70:1 means that for every 3.7 revolutions of the input shaft, the output shaft makes one revolution.
Higher ratios result in lower output speed but significantly higher torque.
6 Input/Output Shaft Configurations and Dimensions
The RCV 162 is available with various shaft configurations to fit different machinery.
Input Shaft: This is typically a solid shaft with a keyway, designed to connect to a PTO shaft or motor via a coupling.
IEC and NEMA standard input flanges are also common for direct motor mounting.
Output Shaft: The output can be a solid or hollow shaft. Hollow shafts are advantageous as they allow a machine’s driveshaft to pass directly through the gearbox, simplifying design and reducing space.
Dimensions are critical. Always use a caliper to measure shaft diameters and check the mounting pattern against the manufacturer’s technical drawing before ordering a replacement.
7 Housing Material and Mounting Pattern
The gearbox housing serves to protect the internal components and dissipate heat.
Material: Housings are generally made from high-strength cast iron or, in some cases, aluminum alloy.
Cast iron offers superior rigidity and vibration damping, making it ideal for high-shock applications. Aluminum provides excellent thermal conductivity and is significantly lighter, which can be a benefit in mobile equipment.
Mounting: The RCV 162 features a standardized mounting pattern with several bolt holes. This allows it to be mounted in various orientations to suit the equipment’s layout.
8 Common Industrial and Agricultural Applications for the RCV 162
The RCV 162’s blend of high torque, durability, and configuration flexibility makes it a workhorse in several key sectors.
9 Manure/Fertilizer Spreaders
This is a classic application for a robust agricultural gearbox.
A spreader needs immense torque to turn the augers or beaters that break up and distribute dense, heavy material.
The gearbox must withstand the shock loads and corrosive environment common on a farm.
10 Salt and Sand Spreaders
Much like its agricultural cousin, a salt or sand spreader used for winter road maintenance requires a reliable torque multiplier.
The gearbox drives the spinner that broadcasts the material, and it must operate flawlessly in cold, wet, and corrosive conditions.
11 Industrial Conveyor Systems
In a factory or processing plant, conveyor belts often run for thousands of hours with minimal downtime.
An in-line helical reducer like the RCV 162 is perfect for driving the rollers of a conveyor system, providing the steady, continuous torque needed to move products and materials efficiently.
12 Maintenance & Lubrication Schedule for the RCV 162
Proper maintenance is the key to ensuring a long service life for any gearbox.
A proactive approach prevents catastrophic failures that lead to costly downtime.
The most critical element of this maintenance is lubrication.
When I’m called to inspect a potentially failing gearbox, the first thing I do isn’t to put a wrench on it. I start with my senses.
I listen for any abnormal sounds—grinding, whining, or knocking are all red flags that point to different internal problems.
I’ll place a hand on the housing (carefully!) to check for excessive heat, a tell-tale sign of friction from oil breakdown or bearing failure.
In my field test, I’ll often take an oil sample. The color and consistency of the oil tell a story.
If I see metallic flecks, it’s a clear indicator of gear wear, and we know we need to schedule a replacement before it fails completely.
13 Recommended Oil Type and Fill Capacity
The lifeblood of a gearbox is its oil.
The lubricant performs several vital functions: it reduces friction between moving parts, carries away heat, and helps flush out contaminants.
Oil Type: Most modern gearboxes like the RCV 162 specify a high-quality synthetic gear oil.
Synthetics offer superior performance across a wider temperature range and have a longer service life than conventional mineral oils. The specific viscosity grade (e.g., ISO VG 220, SAE 75W-90) will be specified by the manufacturer.
Fill Capacity: Never overfill or underfill a gearbox.
Underfilling starves the components of lubrication, while overfilling can cause the oil to foam and overheat, leading to churning losses.
The correct oil level is usually indicated by a fill plug on the side of the housing.
Using the right part is critical, whether it’s a gearbox or a simple electrical plug. Learn about OEM-spec parts in our deep dive on the Yazaki 7283-8497-90 connector.
14 How to Identify and Troubleshoot a Failing Gearbox
Even the most robust gearbox will eventually wear out.
Recognizing the early warning signs can be the difference between a scheduled repair and a field-side emergency.
Unusual Noise: Grinding or rumbling sounds often indicate bearing failure, while a high-pitched whine can point to worn or improperly meshed gear teeth.
Overheating: If the gearbox is too hot to touch comfortably during normal operation, it’s a sign of a problem.
This is often caused by low oil levels or oil that has lost its lubricating properties.
Leaks: Oil seals on the input and output shafts will eventually perish. A weeping seal should be monitored, but a dripping leak needs immediate attention.
Excessive Vibration: An increase in vibration can signal a misaligned shaft, a damaged gear, or a failing bearing.
The operational status of industrial components like this is often monitored by protective relays. Learn about a similar concept in our guide to the oil surge relay in power transformers.
For pricing and availability of a genuine Comer Industries RCV 162 or an equivalent replacement, it is always best to contact an authorized distributor.
To review the official technical data, you can download the official RCV 162 datasheet from Comer Industries or the specific manufacturer of your unit.
FAQ: Reducteur RCV 162 Technical Questions
Who makes the RCV 162 gearbox?
The RCV 162 is a model designation for an in-line helical gear reducer produced by several manufacturers. Key players in this space include Comer Industries, a global leader in power transmission systems for agricultural and industrial machinery, and Varmec, which also produces an RCV series of gear reducers.
What are the specifications of a reducteur RCV 162?
A typical RCV 162 features a hardened steel helical gear set inside a cast iron or aluminum housing. It’s designed as a torque multiplier, with common gear ratios starting around 3.70:1 and handling input speeds up to 2800 rpm. Output torque and power ratings vary significantly based on the specific configuration.
What is the RCV 162 gearbox used for?
This type of gearbox is widely used in applications requiring high torque and reliability. Common uses include agricultural machinery like manure, fertilizer, salt, and sand spreaders, as well as industrial equipment such as conveyor systems and other power transmission applications.
What kind of oil do you use in a Comer Industries gearbox?
For modern industrial gearboxes like those from Comer Industries, it is highly recommended to use a high-quality synthetic gear oil. The exact viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 75W-80, ISO VG 220) should always be confirmed by consulting the official user manual or maintenance guide for your specific gearbox model.
