Transmission

Function

A transaxle, in the lawn and garden industry, is a major mechanical component which combines the functionality of the transmission, the differential, and associated components of the driven axle into one integrated assembly, usually connected to the front axle.

Technical requirements

Front-engine, rear-wheel drive vehicles tend to have the transmission up front just after the engine, but sometimes a front engine drives a rear-mounted transaxle. This is generally done for reasons of weight distribution. Another advantage is that the driveshaft has only to endure the torque of the engine instead of that torque multiplied by the 1st gear ratio, although it is therefore spinning at engine speed.

Dimension, Weight and Material

With such a wide range of products, transaxle dimensions range from small 6cc pumps up to large garden tractor transaxles. These products can range in weight from 7 pounds up to 80 pounds. Typical materials used are aluminum, powdered metal, steel and oil.

Production process

Transmission suppliers are known for machining aluminum, powdered metal and some cast iron components. Transmissions require exact tolerances on all machined components. Once the parts are to specifications, they are assembled on state of the art assembly lines. All transmission suppliers are ISO 9001 certified.