Improving Your Automobile

Could a Friction Modifier Extend the Life of My Transmission?

14 October 2016

Addison Morris

Vehicle transmissions endure a lot of wear and tear during their lifetimes. Even though they are designed to last a long time, remember that original equipment manufacturers earn most of their profit from supplying replacement parts. In order for you to get as much usage out of your transmission as possible, you can take some steps of your own. What about adding a friction modifier?

When to Add a Modifier

When was the last time that you replaced your transmission fluid? This should be done on a regular basis. When you do this, foreign particles that have built up over time due to that wear and tear will be removed. When the fluid is replaced you should add a friction modifier. You may not be able to find them at a standard parts store, but transmission specialists can help you.

How Does the Modifier Work?

A friction modifier is a sophisticated product. It has the ability to reduce friction in the meshes and bearings within an automatic transmission, which will certainly help to boost your fuel economy. However, it also has the ability to increase friction in certain components such as a composite clutch and torque converter. The reason there is to provide optimum efficiency, while also avoiding the shuddering sensation that might otherwise arise during a gearshift. If shuddering is not avoided it can cause damage to the friction plate, apart from being quite annoying. So, the friction modifier can generate differing levels of friction, depending on the specific surface. When clutches are almost stationary during shifting no levels of friction are needed, but when clutches in the gearbox are spinning and engaged, high levels are called for.

Friction modifier products add a tiny film onto the surface of the various components. They are also designed to work in tandem with some other additives that you can find in transmission fluid, such as anti-wear agents. Corrosion and rust inhibitors are often added to transmission fluids and the modifier is able to interact with those elements. There are also components designed to help the transmission work at low ambient temperatures and specifically when the vehicle is stopped. This means that if you are to expect long life, reliability and consistency from the gearbox a delicate balance has to be achieved and the right products added to your oil.

Where Can You Find This?

As there are a number of different friction modifier types for a wide selection of gearboxes, it's important to talk with a transmission specialist so that you choose the correct item. For more information, contact a business such as Gearbox Express.

Share

Search