Transmission

The transmission (commonly known as the gearbox) provides a conversion of speed to torque. The basic function of a transmission is to convert engine power, in this case speed to turning motion, sometimes known as work. The transmission forces output from a higher speed motor (the engine) to a slower more forceful output.

The transmission is referred to as the gearbox by many in layman terms. However a gearbox is used for stationary applications such as wind turbines or turning lathes.

Why the need for a transmission?

The transmission is needed mainly because of the characteristics of the engine and the difference of the vehicles wheels. Engines typically operate over a range of 100 to 8000 RPM (Revolutions per minute) this varies and is often less for diesel engines, the cars wheels rotate at around 0 to 1800 RPM.

This variation is one major reason why a transmission is needed in cars. Without the transmission the power from the engine simply couldn't be fully applied to the road. Imagine driving around in first gear all the time!

In addition to this the Engine produces higher torque outputs in the middle of its range, often the greatest torque is required when the vehicle is moving from a rest or travelling slowly.

Transmissions are often contained in a cast iron casing when used for car/truck applications. Cast iron is cheaper than most materials whilst still providing the strength and durability needed although aluminium alloys are becoming more common as manufacturers chase weight savings.

How do I care for it?

Caring for your transmission is as important as caring for any other part of your car. A few basic things that should be checked regularly are whether there is enough transmission fluid, and that there is no leaks/dirt around the transmission. The transmission can on most cars be found forward or rearward of the car. Some manufacturers locate them close to the differential.

Overheating is the most common cause of most transmission troubles. This can be down to oil starvation or lack of proper maintenance. The image below shows a transmission which has been leaking.

Oil starvation is a common problem and will lead to seizure of the transmission and major damage to the internal gears. Oil starvation can cause the rotating gears to weld together. It is highly recommend that you use the manufacturers recommended oil/fuel supplier. Manufacturers work closely with their suppliers of oil to ensure their components run correctly and effectively.


Oil starvation is a common problem and will lead to seizure of the transmission and major damage to the internal gears. Oil starvation can cause the rotating gears to weld together. It is highly recommend that you use the manufacturers recommended oil/fuel supplier. Manufacturers work closely with their suppliers of oil to ensure their components run correctly and effectively.

Here is a good video from expert village on how to check for transmission leaks - http://www.ehow.com/video_2326866_ch...luid-leak.html

You can also limit wear on tear on your transmission by not lugging the transmission or slipping the clutch whilst driving. Sometimes you have to accept the transmission will just fail due to wear and tear. Thermal expansion over years does take its toll on the inner components and changes the properties of the material within.

Manual, Semi-Automatic, Automatic Transmissions

In Europe, Asia and Africa manual transmissions are more common. Manual transmissions provide many benefits over automatic transmissions. Manual transmissions can use less fuel, are easier to maintain and they often make climbing hills a lot easier then you can in a automatic. Semi-Automatic transmissions are basically manual transmissions with a automatic clutch. Both fully automatic and semi automatic transmissions are easier to use for disabled or impaired users as they don't require use of a clutch paddle/pedal or a gear lever.

I hope to expand on this in more detail soon. Hope you enjoyed reading this

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"My blood is red for Ferrari!" Quote some admin guy from a fan forum.

Ive actually worked in a shop and a bad trans can be very expensive to replace or fix. Very helpful info matt!

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That is a very large transmission.

Seems too hard to work, I would probably bring it to a professional if I bought one of them.