How do truck gearboxes work?

A truck's gearbox is a crucial element of the drivetrain , responsible for transmitting engine power to the wheels and adapting torque to current driving conditions. Unlike passenger car gearboxes, truck transmissions have significantly more gear ratios, often use split-gear mechanisms, and can operate in manual, automated, or automatic modes. What are the differences between these solutions? How many gears does a truck have, and how does shifting work in a truck?

Contents:

• How many gears does a truck gearbox have?
• How does a truck box work?
• Common truck gearbox faults
• Where to buy truck gearbox parts?

How many gears does a truck gearbox have?

Trucks have significantly more gear ratios than passenger cars. Standard European vehicles have 12-, 16-, and 18-speed transmissions , while American trucks often have 13- and 18-speed transmissions . Split gears are also used , allowing for smoother torque adjustments to current road conditions and vehicle load.

There are two main types of gearboxes used in trucks:

• Manual transmissions – traditional transmissions that require the driver to manually shift gears. They are more complicated to operate but provide greater control over the vehicle;
• automated manual transmissions (AMT) – combine the advantages of manual transmissions with automatic gear shift control, which translates into fuel savings and driving comfort;
• Automatic transmissions – fully automated gear changes, eliminating the need for manual operation. They are increasingly used in modern trucks.

How does a truck box work?

The gear shifting process in a truck is slightly different than in a passenger car. Here are the key steps:

• accelerating the vehicle – the driver starts in a low gear and gradually moves to higher gears;
• using half-gears – allows for more precise adjustment of engine power to the load and road conditions;
• gear reduction – used during engine braking, downhill riding and driving in difficult terrain.

Modern trucks use planetary gears to provide smoother gear changes and reduce energy loss.

Common truck gearbox faults

Truck gearboxes are subjected to high stresses, which increases the risk of failure. Common failures include:

• problems with gear shifting – may be due to worn synchronizers, clutch failure or incorrect oil level;
• noise in the gearbox – indicates worn bearings, damaged gears or lack of proper lubrication;
• oil leakage – leads to overheating of the gearbox and the risk of its damage;
• jerking when changing gears – may be the result of a gear shift actuator failure or problems with the hydraulic system.

To avoid costly repairs, it is worth regularly changing the transmission oil and checking the technical condition of the gearbox components.

Where to buy truck gearbox parts?

If you need high-quality parts for your gearbox or other drivetrain components, visit Autos . We offer:

• truck parts ,
• parts for construction machinery ,
• parts for commercial vehicles ,
• tires for trucks and construction machines ,
• workshop equipment .

Autos also offers a truck service center where you can have your transmission diagnosed and repaired. Benefit from expert advice and a wide selection of proven components to keep your vehicle running smoothly for a long time.