Drivetrain | Differentials Plus

Drivetrain System

The vehicle drivetrain encompasses a complex network of interconnected components designed to transmit power from the engine to the wheels, enabling movement. It serves as the intermediary system between the engine's output and the wheels' motion. Comprising essential elements such as the transmission, differential, driveshaft, axles, CV joints, and the wheels themselves, the drivetrain ensures the effective distribution and utilization of engine power. Depending on the vehicle's configuration, power may be directed to either the front wheels, rear wheels, or all wheels, providing distinct driving characteristics such as front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive. Overall, the drivetrain plays a pivotal role in determining the vehicle's performance, efficiency, and handling capabilities.

What's Next?

Give us a call to schedule an appointment and make sure you give us as much detail as possible. This will help us get to the root of the problem quickly and have you back on the road sooner.

Evaluation & Inspection

We will inspect and diagnose your vehicle using specific tests and diagnostic equipment to pinpoint the root problem. We use the same equipment as your OEM so you can rest assured your vehicle diagnosis is accurate.

Authorization

We won't perform any services to your vehicle without your authorization. We will provide a digital inspection report with photos and videos and a detailed estimate so you can make an informed decision.

Render Services

We know it's a hassle to be without your vehicle so we do our best to complete all approved work the same day. If that is not possible it will be communicated to you during the authorization process.

Schedule Service

Types of Drivetrain

Front Wheel Drive

Front-wheel drive vehicles channel all of the engine's power to the front wheels, effectively pulling the car forward. This configuration enhances traction, promoting stability, predictability, and reliability on the road.

Rear Wheel Drive

Rear-wheel drive routes all engine power to the back wheels, resulting in a pushing motion. While less ideal for icy conditions due to lower traction, RWD offers balanced performance, superior braking, and handling capabilities.

All Wheel Drive

The all-wheel drivetrain utilizes fluid-filled differentials and advanced electronics to distribute power to all four wheels, significantly enhancing driving performance on wet or slippery surfaces.

Four Wheel Drive

The four-wheel drivetrain operates similarly to all-wheel drive (AWD) by distributing engine power to all four wheels. However, 4WD systems are often more ruggedly built, specifically engineered to tackle off-road terrain.

Drivetrain Components & Function

The drivetrain is an important system within your vehicle, serving as literally, the driving force, for transmitting power from the engine to the wheels. Comprised of numerous intricate components, the drivetrain facilitates seamless acceleration, efficient power distribution, and peak performance. Below can you learn more about each component and its function within the drivetrain system.

Transmission: Central to the drivetrain is the transmission, a sophisticated mechanism responsible for managing gear ratios and power distribution to the wheels. Automatic and manual transmissions offer distinct driving experiences, with automatic transmissions employing hydraulic systems and torque converters, while manual transmissions require manual gear shifting for operation.
Differential: Critical to vehicles with multiple powered wheels, such as front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive configurations, the differential facilitates differential wheel rotation during turns, enhancing stability and minimizing tire wear.
Driveshaft: Also known as the propeller shaft, the driveshaft links the transmission to the differential, transmitting engine power to the wheels. Especially vital in rear-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles, driveshafts serve as the conduit between the transmission and the rear axle.
Axles: Responsible for transferring power from the differential to the wheels, axles come in various configurations to suit different vehicle designs and purposes, including solid, independent, and semi-floating axles.
Transfer Case: Essential in all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive setups, the transfer case distributes power between the front and rear axles. Selectable modes in some transfer cases allow drivers to choose between two-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, and four-wheel drive options.
Clutch (In Manual Transmissions): Key in manual transmissions, the clutch engages and disengages the engine from the transmission, enabling smooth gear changes. Depressing the clutch pedal disengages the transmission, while releasing it transfers power to the wheels.
Torque Converter (In Automatic Transmissions): Automatic transmissions feature a torque converter, which permits the engine to idle while the vehicle remains stationary. Utilizing fluid coupling, the torque converter transmits power from the engine to the transmission without the need for a clutch pedal.