Super Service with a Smile. Buy Transmissions
It’s not so long ago that we managed to find our way through five speed manual transmissions after years of mastering four speeds. Now we have to stroke our way through six speeds. Those of us who test drive cars for a living as mechanics eventually get to try all these new systems. I’m so accustomed to shifting smoothly with a 6-speed manual, I suppose if I went back to an old 4-speeder I’d think something was missing. Still, for most driving situations, five forward speeds seems more than adequate.
But it’s with the automatic transmissions that the most changes have occured, led by computer-based electronics which give it a “brain” that recognizes driving situations and adjusts almost instantly. In this case the added gears are a real benefit. Automatics have allegedly lagged behind manuals in efficiency. Whatever number of gears a car’s manual transmission came with, the automatic option usually has one less speed.
The advent of 5-speed and 6-speed automatics means that performance, both acceleration and fuel economy, is now equal to, or greater than most manuals. Gradually the cost of such systems will come down to the point where we can expect to see them in everything from economy compacts to mid-range family sedans.
Meanwhile, in an attempt to make happy enthusiast types who like the convenience of an automatic but prefer to control their own destiny, we’ve seen a newer computerized version of ‘manually shifted’ automatics. Controlled by buttons on the steering wheel spokes or, in some cases, gear levers that can be flicked up-and-down or right-to-left, they allow the driver to shift at will.
My experience with the numerous automatic shift controls, is that the automatic can do the job just as well if left alone. Besides, a big part of the fun when driving a manual comes with the ability to manipulate the clutch. On the other hand, some performance cars are now offered with a sequential shifter based on Formula One racing technology. Small paddles on the front and back of the steering wheel merely have to be flicked with a finger to shift gears.
In the long run I think you’ll see wide-spread adaptation of the CVT technology. It’s far less complex than a conventional automatic and more efficient, to boot. There are no real gears, only a pulley and a pair of cones. As the car accelerates the pulley adjusts its position on the cones, matching engine revs to road speed. In use, the engine maintains a more-or-less constant rpm and when standing in traffic doesn’t cause the car to creep forward.
To accommodate drivers who expect to hear a change in engine revs, some automakers force a computer-simulated extra gear change and even add a little “creep” at standstill. That’s the way it is with a finicky public.
Meanwhile this new phenomenon of multiple transmission options, especially when there’s no choice of engines, will continue to confuse. More gears, anyone? Anyone have similar thoughts? I’m interested in your take on this subject. Meanwhile, feel free to examine more information on our blog or give us a shout at 866-320-1182 about what is on your mind. GotTransmissions.com
