THE RIGHT RATIOS

The transmission systems form the vital link between engine and road wheels, determining a car's performance and fuel economy. This article discusses how they are designed and the characteristics of good design. The way a manufacturer decides how many ratios are required and how they should be spaced is described. The emphasis on fuel economy has resulted in high gear ratios and accompanying lack of flexibility. Recent developments in the area of transmission design has been concerned not only with widening the ratio range but also the improvement of overall performance. Compact Computer application has revolutionized every aspect of this developmental work. Various gear designs are briefly described including the modular gearbox used in the VW design.

• Corporate Authors:

  IPC Specialist and Professional Press Limited

  Surrey House, 1 Throwley Way
  Sutton, Surrey SM1 4QQ,   England 
• Publication Date: 1983-4-23

Media Info

• Features: Photos;
• Pagination: p. 46-48
• Serial:
  • Motor
  • Volume: 163
  • Issue Number: 4198

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Design; Fuel consumption; Geodetic surveying; Ratios; Transmissions; Vehicle performance
• Old TRIS Terms: Gear boxes
• Subject Areas: Design; Energy; Safety and Human Factors;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00379756
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
• Report/Paper Numbers: HS-035 081
• Files: HSL, USDOT
• Created Date: Dec 30 1983 12:00AM