Transmission & Drivetrain Systems Flashcards
7 cards from real CTE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Transmission & Drivetrain Systems flashcards as text
What happens to engine braking effectiveness when a driver downshifts in a manual transmission?
Answer: Engine braking increases because the engine acts as a load on the drivetrain
Downshifting increases engine braking by forcing the engine to spin faster, creating more resistance (compression braking) that slows the vehicle.
A CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) achieves variable gear ratios using which mechanism?
Answer: Variable-diameter pulleys connected by a drive belt or chain
CVTs use two variable-diameter pulleys connected by a belt or chain; changing the effective diameter of each pulley continuously varies the gear ratio.
What is the purpose of the ring and pinion gear set in a rear axle differential?
Answer: To change the direction of power flow 90 degrees and provide a final drive ratio
The ring and pinion gears redirect torque 90 degrees from the driveshaft to the axle shafts and establish the final drive ratio.
Which symptom most likely indicates a worn CV axle boot on a front-wheel-drive vehicle?
Answer: Clicking or popping noise during low-speed turns
A torn CV boot allows grease to escape and contamination to enter the joint, causing clicking or popping noises particularly during slow, tight turns.
In a four-wheel-drive system, what is the role of the transfer case?
Answer: Split and distribute torque between the front and rear axles
The transfer case receives power from the transmission and splits it between the front and rear driveshafts, enabling four-wheel-drive operation.
Which planetary gear set component is held stationary to achieve a speed reduction (underdrive)?
Answer: Ring gear
Holding the ring gear stationary while applying input to the sun gear and taking output from the carrier produces a speed reduction.
A CTE automotive instructor wants to assess students' understanding of drivetrain power flow. Which assessment best measures applied knowledge?
Answer: Students trace and explain power flow through a disassembled drivetrain on a workbench
Having students physically trace power flow through actual components demonstrates applied understanding and aligns with CTE's competency-based assessment model.