7 Key Things You Need to Know About the Different Types of Truck Transmissions

If you know anything about trucks, then you probably already realize that they have different kinds of transmissions. The three main kinds are AMT, automatic, and manual, though there are others. Some truck drivers prefer one kind, while others will opt for another. 

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You can contact a truck parts supplier if you need a replacement component for your vehicle’s transmission. Keeping it in working order is essential. In this article, we will also cover some key things you ought to know about the different kinds of truck transmissions. 

AMT Transmissions Have Become Increasingly Popular in Recent Years 

The AMT transmission is one that has only grown more prominent as the years have passed. The automated-manual transmission is essentially a hybrid of the automatic and manual versions. 

They use a kind of advanced technology to automate the process of shifting. This enhances the vehicle’s overall efficiency and performance. These kinds of transmissions use processors, sensors, and actuators. These monitor engine load and vehicle speed. 

There is Also Such a Thing as a Dual-Clutch Transmission 

The dual-clutch transmission is another type of which some truckers might not be aware. You might also hear it referred to as a twin-clutch transmission sometimes. 

This variety features relatively newer technology than the more traditional types of truck transmissions. There are two separate clutches with this design. One is for the even gears, and the other for the odd ones. 

Dual-Clutch Transmissions Are Useful for Trucks That Need Rapid Acceleration 

If you’re operating a truck that requires rapid acceleration, you might want to go with the dual-clutch transmission option. When you do, you’ll get a clutch that, when it’s engaged, will prepare the next gear for a seamless, quick change. 

That is just what you will need for trucks with performance-oriented applications. If you are tackling a lot of hilly terrain in your truck, this option is very popular as well. 

With the DCT, you get precise selection of your gear, reduced power loss, and enhanced driveability. The heavy-duty truck operator who is seeking optimal efficiency and performance would do well to consider this option. 

The Planetary Automatic Transmission is Also Available 

You might sometimes hear the planetary automatic transmission referred to as a traditional automatic transmission. This one makes use of a fairly complex system of gears. They are called planetary gear sets, hence the name.   

These transmissions come equipped with a torque converter. It has a stator, turbine, and pump. These exist to quickly transfer power from the engine to the transmission when necessary. 

With them, you get ease of use. You can also count on the ability to adapt nearly instantaneously to varied driving conditions. Long-haul truckers seem to like this option. With it, they get reliable performance, convenience, and comfort. 

Three Factors Cause a Gear Shift in Automatic Truck Transmissions 

Some truck drivers like to default to the automatic transmission option. Those who do usually point to their ease of use and convenience. These transmissions, when you have one in a heavy-duty truck, can be relied upon to automatically shift gears, which some truckers like. 

When they do, it is based on three factors. These are driver input, load conditions, and vehicle speed. In other words, these trucks are capable of shifting automatically depending on what is happening with the driver and vehicle at any given time. 

With this in mind, a driver can go into a trip with a lot of confidence. They will know that they won’t need to do any manual clutch engagement or gear shifting. In stop-and-go urban settings, this might be ideal for some drivers. They will get through these areas without having as much fatigue. 

Automatic Transmissions Can Also Adapt to Various Driving Conditions 

The easy ability of automatic heavy-duty truck transmissions to adjust to myriad driving conditions is also something that experienced drivers seem to gravitate towards. The precise gear selection goes along with this, making for a smooth experience. 

Drivers who are going to do long-haul trucking might choose this transmission version. However, those who are going to be doing shorter trips might like it as well. Truckers who are engaged in city deliveries may want it. The same is true for off-road operations. 

However, automatic transmissions also continue to evolve as the years pass. The ongoing technological advancements that are continually added to these transmissions mean that reliability, driveability, and efficiency will probably only get better as more time goes by. 

Splitter Transmissions Are an Option 

We would be remiss if we didn’t mention the splitter transmission type as well. These feature extra gear ratios within each gear range. There are so-called “splitter” levels that drivers get with this option that are not present with any of the others. These let the driver easily divide each gear range in two. 

The driver has the choice of selecting the higher or lower ratio. They do so by engaging the clutch and then shifting the splitter level. Some heavy-duty truck operators like to have this option. It allows them to have excellent control over their vehicles during regional hauling jobs. 

There are also range-splitter transmissions. These let a driver have the features of both the range and the splitter transmission options. They each have a fixed number of gear ranges. This is similar to a range transmission. The difference is that within each range, they also have the ability to split gears in the same way a splitter transmission would. 

These are probably the most popular in the construction industry. It is in that niche in particular where drivers will often want to handle varied load conditions over uneven or hazardous terrain. 

Now that you know about some of the differences and optimal uses of the various kinds of heavy-duty truck transmissions, you can decide which one makes the most sense for you. If you’re not sure, you may need to try out some different ones. In the trucking industry, you always want to go with the choice that makes you feel the most comfortable.