Recently, more and more cars have a variator type of transmission. It should be noted that it is very different from others, it is considered a "gentle" option. That is why, in order for this part to be able to serve you for a long period of time, it is important to know the things that it is better not to do with this CP.
What are CVT gearboxes
Of course, before buying, most read reviews about the variator box, but few people know about the essence of its design. To begin with, it is worth noting that such KPs are divided into several main types:
- V-belt type;
- chain type;
- toroidal type.
The essence of the work is as follows: a chain or belt moves along pulleys that have a variable working diameter, and as a result, the gear ratio changes over a wide range. Based on this, there is one key feature of the CVT, namely the high dependence on oil temperatures, cleanliness and loads.
What to avoid when using a CVT
There are five main things that can hurt. That is why you should always remember about them and not use them. These include the following points:
- Oil changes are rare. For a variator gearbox, fresh oil is an indispensable component that should not be forgotten, because with bad oil, the operation of the unit will very quickly accelerate the aging of the chains or belt. In addition, dirty oil does not perform well antifriction functions, which in turn provokes slipping of belts on the cones. It is also necessary to adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations for changing the oil and its type.
- The use of aggressive driving. Very often it is active and extreme driving that provokes the appearance of problems. As a result, it is again possible for the chains to slip or erase the surfaces of the tapers. It is not recommended to travel long distances at high speeds, as this can lead to overheating of the system.
- Slip. Slip is an undesirable process, especially in difficult conditions or for an extended period of time. In this case, the wheel speed is greatly increased (sometimes it can reach several hundred km / h). As soon as at least one of them is on the surface, it immediately drops sharply. At this moment, there is a heavy load on all the main elements in the gearbox and the variator suffers. Thus, the service life of the transmission may be shortened, there may be other problems: a broken or stretched belt, heating of the pulleys.
- Towing. Towing, like slipping, has a very bad effect on variators, since temperature changes occur in a significant way. That is why manufacturers do not recommend using it when driving uphill, especially if there are heavy trailers behind. However, if it is nevertheless necessary to undertake towing, then it is worth remembering a few rules. For example, do not abruptly press the gas pedal. In this case, it is better not to use a car as a towed object, which also has a variator type of gearbox. This can be done if the car will be with the engine running, otherwise in other cases it will lead to oil starvation of the unit and the belt will drill the shaft.
- Strong haste in winter is extremely contraindicated. When the temperature dropped below 15 degrees, it is necessary to pay special attention to warming up both the motor and the variator type of transmission. If this is not done, then the movement of the car will begin with a thick state of the oil in the box. As a result, the tapered surfaces are poorly lubricated, and the chain and belt will slip or leave minor scuff marks. Alternatively, you can warm up the variator in a smooth and slow motion for several kilometers.
