Drift Car Sequential Transmission: An In-Depth Guide
Introduction
Drifting is a motorsport that involves driving a car sideways at high speeds while maintaining control. Drift cars are typically equipped with specialized transmissions that allow drivers to quickly and easily change gears, even while sliding. These transmissions are known as sequential transmissions.
Sequential transmissions are different from traditional manual transmissions in that they do not have a clutch pedal. Instead, drivers use a sequential shifter to change gears. The shifter is typically mounted on the steering wheel or on the dashboard.
Drift car sequential transmissions are typically designed to be very strong and durable, as they are subjected to a lot of stress. They also have a very short throw, which makes it easier for drivers to quickly change gears.
How a Sequential Transmission Works
Sequential transmissions work by using a series of gears that are arranged in a straight line. The gears are shifted by a sliding collar that moves along the line of gears. When the collar is moved, it engages the next gear in line.
The gears in a sequential transmission are typically spaced very close together, which gives the transmission a very short throw. This makes it easier for drivers to quickly change gears, even while sliding.
Types of Sequential Transmissions
There are two main types of sequential transmissions: dog engagement transmissions and synchromesh transmissions.
Dog engagement transmissions are the most common type of sequential transmission used in drift cars. They are called “dog engagement” transmissions because they use a series of dogs to engage the gears. The dogs are small, wedge-shaped pieces of metal that are attached to the gears. When the sliding collar moves, the dogs engage with the corresponding dogs on the next gear, locking the two gears together.
Dog engagement transmissions are very strong and durable, but they can be noisy. They also require the driver to be very precise when shifting gears, as it is possible to miss a shift or grind the gears if the shift is not made correctly.
Synchromesh transmissions are a newer type of sequential transmission that uses synchromesh rings to engage the gears. Synchromesh rings are small, cone-shaped pieces of metal that are attached to the gears. When the sliding collar moves, the synchromesh rings slide over the corresponding cone on the next gear, synchronizing the speeds of the two gears. This makes it easier for the driver to shift gears, as it is not necessary to be as precise as with a dog engagement transmission.
Synchromesh transmissions are quieter and easier to shift than dog engagement transmissions, but they are also more expensive.
Advantages of a Sequential Transmission for Drifting
There are several advantages to using a sequential transmission for drifting.
* Quick shifts: Sequential transmissions allow drivers to shift gears very quickly, even while sliding. This is essential for drifting, as it allows drivers to maintain control of the car while changing gears.
* No clutch pedal: Sequential transmissions do not have a clutch pedal, which makes it easier for drivers to focus on driving. This is especially important for drifting, as it allows drivers to keep both hands on the steering wheel.
* Durability: Sequential transmissions are very strong and durable, as they are subjected to a lot of stress. This makes them ideal for drifting, as they can withstand the abuse that is often associated with this sport.
Disadvantages of a Sequential Transmission for Drifting
There are also some disadvantages to using a sequential transmission for drifting.
* Cost: Sequential transmissions are more expensive than traditional manual transmissions. This is because they are more complex and require specialized parts.
* Noise: Dog engagement sequential transmissions can be noisy, especially when shifting gears quickly. This can be a problem for drivers who want to keep their cars quiet.
* Difficulty of shifting: Dog engagement sequential transmissions can be difficult to shift, especially for inexperienced drivers. It is important to be very precise when shifting gears, as it is possible to miss a shift or grind the gears if the shift is not made correctly.
Conclusion
Sequential transmissions are a popular choice for drift cars because they offer several advantages over traditional manual transmissions. They are quick, easy to shift, and durable. However, they are also more expensive and can be noisy. If you are considering purchasing a sequential transmission for your drift car, it is important to weigh the pros and cons to determine if it is the right choice for you.
