9 Power Train Components in Cars and Their Functions
Power train is a system created by automotive experts when designing a car. With this system, the car can move and its speed can be controlled by the driver. Within this system, there are several power train components that are interconnected to drive the car. To satisfy your curiosity about these components, let’s take a look at the following review.
Types of Components in the Power Train System & Their Functions
There are several components in the power train system that need to be known. Here are the complete components.
1. Clutch
The clutch functions as a connector between the engine's rotation and the transmission. When you start the car's engine, the clutch automatically transmits the engine's power to the transmission. Additionally, the clutch also prevents jolts when the driver is shifting the transmission lever or gears.
2. Transmission
This power train system component serves as the controller of the engine's rotational power. This component can manage gear shifts so that the driver can control the car's speed.
3. Propeller shaft
This component functions as a power transmitter from the transmission to the final gear. When the car's wheels move, this component will shorten and lengthen. This movement occurs because the end of this component has a universal joint.
Read Also: What is a Car Chassis? Here are the Components and Their Functions
4. Final gear (differential)
The final gear, also known as the differential, functions to change the speed of the rotational power generated by the engine. Additionally, the final gear also serves to amplify the torque that will be transmitted to the wheels located in the final gear area.
5. Axle shaft
The main function of this component is to connect the axle and the wheels to transmit rotational power. The axle shaft itself is divided into two types, namely rigid and independent. For the rigid type, the shaft is usually directly connected from the differential output to the wheel bearing. Meanwhile, for the independent type, there are two universal joints at the end of the axle shaft.
6. Wheel bearing
Wheel bearings can also be referred to as bearings or supports for the wheel axle. Its main function is to maximize the rotation of the wheel axle, thereby increasing acceleration when the car maneuvers.
7. Wheels
Within the power train system, there are wheels. This component includes rims and tires. The rim serves as the framework of the wheel and supports the car while in motion. Meanwhile, the tire functions to cover the rim from the road surface, providing grip and dampening vibrations when the car is moving.
8. Transaxle (Front Wheel Drive/FWD)
This component is usually found in cars with a FWD system. It is a mechanical combination of the clutch, differential, and transmission contained in one unit. The function of this component is to dampen noise or vibrations caused by the imbalance of the propeller shaft.
9. Transfer Case (Four Wheel Drive/4WD)
This component functions as a power distributor between the rear wheel drive and the front wheel drive of the car. Thus, a car with a 4WD system can operate in 4WD Low (4L), 4WD High (4H), and even 2WD.
Now you are familiar with all the components of the car's power train system. Given its function as the car's drive system, you need to pay attention to the condition of each component. Don't forget to perform regular maintenance periodically at the Daihatsu dealer or the nearest workshop.