What you should know about your car's drive train...
Drive Train: All powertransmitting components between the engine and the wheels, including the clutch, torque converter, transmission, transaxle, U-Joints, c.v. joints, drive shaft, differential and axles.
Most of us don't think much about our vehicle's drive train until something goes wrong: strange noises, leaks or shifting problems. That's when we begin worrying about a big repair job.
The more you know about your car and the shop that repairs it, the less reason you'll have for concern. With regular checking and maintenance, you can expect fewer and smaller repair bills. Note: In most cases a maximum cost can be given by the repair shop. Always request it.
Is your car front wheel drive or rear? Front wheel drive incorporates engine, transmission and driving axle in one compact unit. Rear drive delivers front engine power to the rear wheels through a transmission and drive shaft.
1. CLUTCH OR TORQUE CONVERTER - CLUTCH with manual transmission or TORQUE CONVERTER with automatic-permits smooth transfer of power from the engine to the transmission.
2. TRANSAXLE is the combined transmission and driving axles in a compact unit, saving weight and space inside the passenger compartment.
3. CV (CONSTANT VELOCITY) JOINTS deliver power to the wheels, twisting and flexing like a wrist joint as the steering wheels turn and the suspension moves over bumps. They are packed with grease and covered with rubber boots.
4. TRANSMISSION whether front drive or rear, this is the gear shifting mechanism that matches engine speed to road speed and load.
5. UNIVERSAL JOINTS provide flexibility on a rear drive vehicle between the transmission and the rear axle, allowing the axle to move with the irregularities on the road.
6. DRIVE SHAFT is the tubular component connecting the transmission to the rear axle.
7. DIFFERENTIAL is the round housing at the center of the rear axle. It directs power to the driving wheels and, through its gearing mechanism, permits wheels to turn at different speeds in turns.
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