Drivetrain 101

An introduction to drivetrains
Transmission
 Introduction to Transmission Systems
• Definition: A transmission system is a mechanism that transmits power
from the engine to the wheels of a vehicle.
• Purpose and Importance: It adjusts the engine's speed (rpm) to the
desired speed of the vehicle, providing torque and smooth
acceleration.
 Components of a Transmission System
• Gears: Different types for varying torque and speed requirements.
• Shafts: Connect and support gears.
• Clutches: Engage and disengage power flow.
• Synchronizers: Ensure smooth engagement of gears in synchromesh
gearboxes.
 Manual Transmission:
• Driver manually selects gears. Clutch pedal disengages engine from
transmission.
 Types of Manual Transmssion
• - Sliding Mesh Gearbox: Oldest type, uses sliding gears to engage and disengage.
• - Constant Mesh Gearbox: Gears are always meshed, engagement happens through dog clutches.
• - Synchromesh Gearbox: Uses synchronizers for smooth gear changes.
 Automatic Transmissions
Uses a torque converter and planetary gearsets.
Uses a hydraulic system and torque converter for automatic gear shifts.
 CVT
Provides seamless acceleration without gear shifts.
 DCT
Combines features of both manual and automatic transmissions with
two clutches.
 Final Drive and Differential
• Final Drive: Reduces speed from transmission and increases torque to
the wheels.
• Differential: Allows wheels to rotate at different speeds for smooth
cornering.
 Transmission Ratios
• Gear Ratios: Ratio of the rotational speeds of two meshed gears.
• Final Drive Ratios: Ratio of the number of turns of the drive shaft to the number
of turns of the wheels.
• Importance: Affects acceleration, top speed, and fuel efficiency.
Gear Ratio
Final Drive Ratios
 Differentials
• A mechanical device that transmits power to a driveshaft while
allowing the wheels on that shaft to rotate at different speeds.
• Commonly found in motor vehicles, allowing the wheels to turn
corners without binding.
• Operates using a system of gears that allows one wheel to spin faster
or slower than the other.

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nC6fsNXdcMQ
 Types of Differentials
• Open Differential
• Locking Differential
• Limited-Slip Differential (LSD)
• Clutch-type LSD
• Torsen LSD
• Viscous LSD
 Open Differential
• Most common type
• They allow the wheels to rotate freely, which is good for fuel economy
and normal driving conditions.
• Can be less effective on loose terrain, such as rain or mud, where one
wheel may spin freely while the other wheel has no traction.
 Locking Differential
• Used to lock both wheels together
• Both wheels travel at the same speed always
• This provides maximum traction, but it can also make the vehicle
difficult to handle, especially on dry pavement.
• Locking differentials are typically only used for off-road driving.
 LSD – Clutch type
• Uses friction plates similar to a clutch disc in a manual transmission.
• Plates compress under torque from the spinning wheel, transferring
power to the wheel with more grip.
• Offers good response and adjustability, popular in performance
applications.
• Clutch-type LSDs are known for their quick response and ability to
progressively transfer torque. This makes them popular in
performance driving applications where precise control is desired.
 LSD - Torsen
• The Torsen functions as an open differential as long as the amount of
torque transmitted to each rear wheel remains equal. When one tire
begins to lose traction, the Torsen instantly senses the change in torque
being applied to the ground.

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JEiSTzK-A2A
 LSD – Viscous LSD
• Uses a silicon-based liquid that changes viscosity based on speed
• Greater the speed difference more the viscosity
• When viscosity on one side increases (eg left) the other side (right)
will get more power

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2bRb17jJ1U
 Drivetrains
A drivetrain (also frequently spelled as drive train or sometimes drive-train) or transmission system,
is the group of components that deliver mechanical power from the prime mover to the driven
components. In automotive engineering, the drivetrain is the components of a motor vehicle that
deliver power to the drive wheels.
 4WD vs AWD
4WD AWD
• Driver-controlled (2WD, 4WD, • Automatic
high/low gear) • Center Diff
• Transfer Case • Everyday driving (rain, snow,
• Off-road (rocks, mud, steep light off-road)
inclines)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jk246sutET0&t=71s
 Maintenance and Troubleshooting
• Common Issues: Gear slipping, rough shifting, leaks.
• Maintenance Tips: Regular fluid checks, timely repairs.
 Applications in FSAE

• Transmission Selection: Based on

vehicle requirements and racing
conditions.
• Performance Considerations:
Balance between acceleration, top
speed, and handling.