Car Automatic Transmission Governor Valve Function
Introduction
The governor valve is a critical component in an automatic transmission. It is responsible for controlling the transmission’s shift points and ensuring that the vehicle operates smoothly and efficiently. In this article, we will discuss the function of the governor valve and how it works.
What is a Governor Valve?
A governor valve is a hydraulic valve that controls the flow of transmission fluid. It is located in the transmission’s valve body and is connected to the transmission’s output shaft. As the output shaft rotates, it drives the governor valve, which in turn controls the flow of transmission fluid.
How Does a Governor Valve Work?
The governor valve works by using centrifugal force to control the flow of transmission fluid. As the output shaft rotates, it causes the governor valve to spin. The faster the output shaft rotates, the more centrifugal force is generated. This centrifugal force acts on the governor valve, causing it to move outward.
As the governor valve moves outward, it restricts the flow of transmission fluid. This causes the transmission to shift to a higher gear. Conversely, as the output shaft slows down, the centrifugal force on the governor valve decreases. This causes the governor valve to move inward, which allows more transmission fluid to flow. This causes the transmission to shift to a lower gear.
Governor Valve Problems
The governor valve is a relatively simple component, but it can malfunction. Common problems with governor valves include:
* Sticking: The governor valve can stick in either the open or closed position. This can cause the transmission to shift improperly or not at all.
* Leaking: The governor valve can also leak transmission fluid. This can cause the transmission to lose pressure and slip.
Symptoms of a Bad Governor Valve
The following are some of the symptoms of a bad governor valve:
* Transmission slipping
* Transmission shifting improperly
* Vehicle shuddering or vibrating
* Loss of power
Governor Valve Replacement
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of a bad governor valve, it is important to have it replaced as soon as possible. A bad governor valve can cause serious damage to the transmission.
The governor valve is a relatively inexpensive part, but the labor involved in replacing it can be expensive. The cost of replacing a governor valve will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Conclusion
The governor valve is a critical component in an automatic transmission. It is responsible for controlling the transmission’s shift points and ensuring that the vehicle operates smoothly and efficiently. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of a bad governor valve, it is important to have it replaced as soon as possible.
