Mad Hatter Auto Service, Muffler and Brakes
Learning about our vehicles is a responsibility of all car owners. It will come in handy whenever we need to go to the auto service shop for car repair, whether for simple auto AC repair or more complex engine or brakes repair. At least we will be better equipped to understand the diagnostic report given to us by the mechanic. For now, let’s try to understand our vehicle’s transmission system better by learning about the transmission components from a Tampa automotive mechanic.
The main components of the automatic transmission are the planetary gear sets, clutch packs, band, torque converter, hydraulic system, oil pump, valve body, computer control, governor, vacuum modulator, throttle cable, and seals and gaskets,
The planetary gears sets are mechanical systems that make possible the forward speeds and reverse of automatic transmission vehicles. Each planetary gear set is made up of one sun gear, one ring gear and two or more planet gears. They are constantly engaged with each other while spinning on pinions in a single carrier. Two or more planetary gear sets are connected in different combinations in order to produce the various forward speeds and reverse of automatic transmissions. With newer vehicles featuring up to eight speed automatic transmissions, a computer is necessary to monitor and control the gear shifts.
The clutch packs are made up of alternating disks of steel and a friction material within a clutch drum. A piston is activated by oil pressure to lock the clutch pack together at the appropriate time so that they all turn together. The clutch packs are used to control the planetary gear sets.
The band is a steel strap around the outside of the drum, with one end connected to the transmission case and the other end connected to a servo. It is tightened by oil pressure to stop the turning of the drum when needed.
The torque converter makes it possible for the engine to keep on running while the vehicle stops. It is shaped like a doughnut with a diameter of 10-15 inches and is mounted between the transmission and the engine. It has three elements – the pump, turbine and stator – that transmit power from the engine to the transmission using transmission fluid.
The hydraulic system is a complex maze of tubes responsible for bringing the pressurized transmission fluid to all parts of the transmission system and the torque converter. It is comparable to the human body’s circulatory system.
The oil pump produces the oil pressure necessary in the transmission system. It works with the engine.
The valve body responds to gear shift by controlling and directing the flow of hydraulic fluid to activate the appropriate clutch pack or band.
The computer controls have sensors that detect information and send this to a solenoid pack within the transmission for more precise shifting. In more advanced vehicles, the computer can even sense and learn the driver’s driving style and adapt to it.
The governor, vacuum modulator and throttle cable work together to signal the transmission when to shift. This is especially important in transmission systems without a computer. The governor controls hydraulic pressure according to vehicle speed. The throttle cable senses the gas pedal position. The vacuum modulator senses engine load through the engine vacuum.
The seals and gaskets prevent hydraulic fluid from leaking. Seals are made from rubber and are used on moving parts. Gaskets can be made of rubber, silicone, soft metal, cork and even paper. They are used on stationary parts that are connected.
Now you’ll be able to identify your car’s transmission system components when your Tampa automotive mechanic discusses it with you.
Mad Hatter Auto Service, Muffler and BrakesContact: Victor Zamora4916 W Linebaugh Ave, Suite 101, Tampa, FL 33624Phone: 813-374-9230Email: info@madhatterexhaust.comWebsite: www.madhatterexhaust.com