All tractors in their respective classes pull a set weight in the sled. When a tractor gets to the end of the 100 metre track, this is known as a "full pull". When more than one tractor completes the course, more weight is added to the sled, and those competitors that moved past 91 metres (300 ft) will compete in a pull-off; the winner is the one who can pull the sled the farthest.
The sled is known as a weight transfer sled. This means that, as it is pulled down the track, the weight is transferred (linked with gears to the sled’s wheels) from over the rear axles and towards the front of the sled. In front of the rear wheels, instead of front wheels, there is a "pan". This is essentially a metal plate, and as the weight moves toward it, the resistance between the pan and the ground builds. The farther the tractor pulls the sled, the more difficult it gets.
The most powerful tractors, such as those in the heavy modified class in Europe, can produce over 8,800 kilowatts (12,000 PS).
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