Different Vehicle Transmission

Manual transmissions have remained relatively unchanged throughout the years, while other transmissions like automatic transmissions, semi-automatic transmissions and CVT’s have become increasingly complex, but easier to use.

Today, we’ll discuss the different types of transmission, how they work and advantages and disadvantages of each one.

Manual Transmission

Most modern manual transmissions today has five or six forward gears. A manual transmission is connected to the engine via a clutch, which if disengaged, removes torque from the system. With the clutch engaged, power is delivered to the transmission through an input shaft from the primary cluster, and rotates through different speeds to the cluster.

Pros:

·         Cheap Repair;

·         Extremely robust and can handle high torque loads;

·         Very reliable and relatively easy to maintain and repair;

·         Solid link between the wheels and engine.

Cons:

·         Can be difficult to operate for drivers who are accustomed to automatic transmission

CVT or Continuous Variable Transmission

Unlike other transmissions, this kind of transmission doesn’t use gears to produce various vehicle speed. Instead of gears, the system relies on a rubber or metal belt running over pulleys. And to keep the belt at its optimum tension, one pulley will increase the effective diameter while the other decreases its effective diameter by exactly the same amount.

Pros:

·         Better fuel efficiency;

·         Faster response to changing driving conditions;

·         Eliminates energy losses associated with torque converters;

·         Constant acceleration throughout the engine’s optimum operating range;

·         Provides a comfortable ride by eliminating Shift Shock.

Cons:

·         Unsuitable for off-road environments

·         Cannot provide engine braking

Full Automatic Transmission

In an automatic transmission, the hydraulic operated control system is managed electronically by the vehicle’s computer. All the driver has to do is shift the selector from Park, Neutral and into Drive and the gear shifting will take place automatically and smoothly.

Pros:

·         Very easy to use;

·         Modern Automatic Transmission can match the manual’s fuel efficiency and performance;

·         Provides a comfortable driving experience.

Cons:

·         Can be Unsuitable for off-road because it doesn’t provide engine braking

·         More complex system.