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Functions of a Drivetrain Fluid
This article will define and explain the function the a drivetrain
fluid, or transmission fluid, is required to carry out.
Drivetrain fluids have many of the same uses as other lubricants.
Most importantly they must minimize component contact, and thereby
reduce friction and wear. A by-product of friction reduction is
also heat reduction. Any heat that is generated by the
components is absorbed by the fluid and moved to a place in the
vehicle where it can disperse. An oil cooler would fulfill this
task but the transmission casing would also do so to an extent.
Because many of the components inside a transmission are made of
ferrous metal, the lubricant must also prevent rust and corrosion.
The gears within the transmission tend to be noisy. The
viscosity of the lubricant will quiet the gears and reduce shock
loading.
When the gears are turning against each other, they tend to churn
the lubricant, which results in a condition known as foaming.
Foaming is when small air bubbles form within the fluid. When
the gears come in contact with each other, the air bubbles will
compress, reducing the thickness of the oil film that separates the
two components. In turn, this can lead to metal-to-metal contact
which will cause accelerated wear.
In summary, a drivetrain fluid must:
- Reduce noise
- Minimize wear
- Inhibit foam
- Reduce friction
- Prevent rust and corrosion
- Transfer heat
Shop for Amsoil Synthetic transmission fluids here
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