Drivetrain 101 – Everything You Need to Know About Your Vehicle’s Drivetrain
The drivetrain is one of the most significant components of your vehicle. But what is a drivetrain and why is it so important?
All vehicles consist of numerous parts that are integral to their function. When performing basic maintenance, however, most people only pay close attention to the engine, steering wheel, and battery.
But for some, their list may also include the drivetrain. But what does drivetrain mean?
It’s an essential yet one of the most misunderstood components of your truck. And to clear up any confusion, this article will tell you everything you need to know about the drivetrain and its functions.
What Is a Drivetrain and What Does It Do?
The drivetrain isn’t a single component. It features several parts that transfer the rotation produced in the engine to power your wheels. By conveying energy using the transmission, it also controls the torque.
The two main drivetrain arrangements are rear-wheel and front-wheel.
In the former, the drivetrain moves the power to the rear wheels of the truck. This arrangement offers a slew of benefits.
First, it helps distribute the weight equally to the tires, providing better handling and steering. Second, vehicles with rear-wheel drivetrains often enjoy superior braking. Finally, it splits the jobs of driving and steering the truck, leading to improved acceleration.
In contrast, front-wheel drivetrains transfer power from the engine to the front wheels. Their greatest advantage is that they eliminate the need to install a long shaft across the entire truck to convey torque. It’s because all drivetrain components are in the front section of the vehicle.
To fit drivetrain parts, the manufacturer installs the engine sideways. The positioning is known as transverse engine placement.
The Components of a Drivetrain
Component #1 – Driveshaft
The driveshaft is an extended steel tube connected to the wheels at one end and the transmission at the other. It conveys the power to various components of the truck and comes in two forms: Hotchkiss and torque tube.
Hotchkiss driveshafts are the most common driveshaft design. They are more open, allowing you to see the shaft spin under the vehicle when moving. They also feature two U joints to link the differential and the transmission.
Conversely, torque-tube driveshafts connect the differential and transmission using a single U joint. They were prevalent on older models, but you can still find them on some trucks today.
Component #2 – CV Joints
CV (constant velocity) joints are also crucial drivetrain components. They move the torque from the transmission to the wheels at constant speeds while accommodating the vertical motions of the suspension. As a result, they are very flexible and can bend in multiple directions.
These components have special grease and seals that are supported by two clamps. They don’t require maintenance and generally last for a long time, provided the protective joint boot is in good condition. Therefore, you can often find vehicles that have travelled more than 300,000 miles with original CV joints.
However, just because CV joints don’t require maintenance doesn’t mean you should completely neglect other drivetrain parts. Issues with them can cause reduced power, a shaky engine, or other problems. In case of a drivetrain malfunction, drive moderately and contact a trusted mechanic.
Component #3 – U Joint
A U joint (short for universal joint) is a pliable point that can connect multiple rotating shafts. They come in different shapes and sizes, transmitting power between components that aren’t in line with each other.
Component #4 – Axle Shafts
Axle shafts are a single rotational shaft on the differential that delivers energy from the final drive to the wheels. They also manage drive changes between the rear hub and differential sun wheel. In simple rear-axle systems, the road wheels attach to the axle shaft supported by the bearings. Movements from wheels shift the axle and guide the vehicle to the desired path.
Due to their tremendous importance, axle shafts warrant appropriate materials, machining, and inspection to preserve the safety of cargo and passengers.
Component #5 – Differential
The differential is the final stop for the power before it spins the wheels. It’s referred to as a differential since it enables the wheels on a single axle to move at a different speed.
In most cases, this takes place when you’re driving around corners. When making a right turn, in particular, the outside wheel travels a longer distance than the inside wheel. To accommodate the change, the outer wheel spins slightly faster. If there were a solid link between them, one of the wheels would skid to keep the axle moving.
Are Drivetrains Different to Powertrains?
People sometimes use the drivetrain and powertrain interchangeably – and understandably so. Since they’re both a source of power generation, high-quality drivetrains and powertrains are key to better top speed, acceleration, and operating range.
While both terms denote the same system, this can create confusion because there’s a big difference between the two.
On one hand, the powertrain comprises everything that moves the truck, the engine included. But on the other hand, drivetrains encompass parts that produce movement without the engine.
Consequently, the mechanics of both arrangements vary greatly, depending on the configuration of your truck. The drivetrain and powertrain for a front-wheel-drive truck are different from a rear-wheel-drive truck. On top of that, they’re not the same for all-wheel and two-wheel truck.
When it comes to warranties, they depend on individual policies. Powertrain warranties, however, are normally different from base warranties. They cover the replacement or fixing costs of powertrain components, while base policies can protect a broader range of elements.
For instance, base warranties typically cover CV boots. By contrast, powertrain warranties protect CV joints, which are mechanical pieces. But many policies don’t cover CV boots that shield the joints.
Thus, you can consider powertrain warranties as coverage for more expensive and important components inside the differential, transmission, and engine.
Make a Wise Buy
All vehicles rely on drivetrains for optimal performance, regardless of their size or purpose. They comprise a large number of parts, most of which require regular maintenance. Keep them in great shape, and they’ll serve you for years to come.
If you’re looking for trucks with high-quality drivetrains, check out our website. We have a bunch of trucks in excellent working order and with factory warranties.