Question 1

Drive Shaft

Accepted Answer

A rotating metal shaft that transfers torque from the transmission to the differential.

Question 2

Universal Joint

Accepted Answer

A mechanical joint that allows rotational movement between two shafts not in a straight line.

Question 3

Constant Velocity (CV) Joint

Accepted Answer

A type of joint that allows a constant rotational speed regardless of the joint angle.

Question 4

Differential

Accepted Answer

A device that splits torque between the two drive wheels, allowing them to rotate at different speeds.

Question 5

Ring Gear

Accepted Answer

The large gear that transfers power from the driveshaft to the differential.

Question 6

Pinion Gear

Accepted Answer

The small gear that engages with the ring gear to transfer power to the differential.

Question 7

Axle Shaft

Accepted Answer

A shaft that connects the differential to the drive wheels, transmitting torque.

Question 8

Axle Housing

Accepted Answer

The protective casing that houses the differential, axle shafts, and bearings.

Question 9

Spline

Accepted Answer

A series of ridges or grooves on a shaft used to transmit torque.

Question 10

Transfer Case

Accepted Answer

A device that splits torque between the front and rear axles in a four-wheel-drive system.

Question 11

Front Axle Disconnect

Accepted Answer

A mechanism that disengages the front axle from the drivetrain to improve fuel efficiency.

Question 12

Limited Slip Differential (LSD)

Accepted Answer

A type of differential that limits the speed difference between the drive wheels for better traction.

Question 13

Traction Control

Accepted Answer

A system that modulates power delivery to the wheels to prevent wheel slippage.

Question 14

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Accepted Answer

A safety system that helps prevent loss of control by selectively braking individual wheels.

Question 15

Power Take-Off (PTO)

Accepted Answer

A device that transfers engine power to auxiliary equipment, such as hydraulic pumps or generators.

Question 16

Clutch Pack

Accepted Answer

A set of friction plates and steel plates used in a limited slip differential to transfer torque.

Question 17

Propeller Shaft

Accepted Answer

Another term for the drive shaft.

Question 18

Two-Speed Axle

Accepted Answer

An axle that can operate in two different gear ratios for improved efficiency and torque.

Question 19

Differential Lock

Accepted Answer

A mechanism that locks the differential, forcing both drive wheels to rotate at the same speed.

Question 20

Gear Ratio

Accepted Answer

The ratio between the number of teeth on two gears, determining the speed and torque relationship.

Question 21

Final Drive

Accepted Answer

The gear set that transfers power from the differential to the drive wheels.

Question 22

Transmission Cooler

Accepted Answer

A device that cools the transmission fluid to prevent overheating.

Question 23

Transmission Shift Solenoid

Accepted Answer

An electrical component that controls the flow of transmission fluid to engage specific gears.

Question 24

Shift Fork

Accepted Answer

A mechanical component used to engage or disengage gears in a manual transmission.

Question 25

Transmission Control Module (TCM)

Accepted Answer

An electronic control unit that manages the operation of an automatic transmission.

Question 26

Torque Converter

Accepted Answer

A fluid coupling that transmits torque from the engine to the transmission in an automatic transmission.

Question 27

Planetary Gear Set

Accepted Answer

A gear arrangement commonly used in automatic transmissions to provide multiple gear ratios.

Question 28

Input Shaft

Accepted Answer

The shaft that connects the transmission to the engine, transmitting power.

Question 29

Output Shaft

Accepted Answer

The shaft that connects the transmission to the drive wheels, transmitting power.

Question 30

Synchromesh

Accepted Answer

A mechanism used in manual transmissions to synchronize the rotational speed of gears during shifting.

Question 31

Transmission Synchronizer

Accepted Answer

A device that equalizes the speed between the input and output shafts during gear engagement.

Question 32

Overdrive

Accepted Answer

A gear ratio that allows the engine to run at lower RPM for improved fuel efficiency.

Question 33

Shift Kit

Accepted Answer

An aftermarket modification that improves the performance and shifting characteristics of a transmission.

Question 34

Transmission Oil Pump

Accepted Answer

A pump that circulates transmission fluid through the hydraulic system.

Question 35

Drive Train Inspection

Accepted Answer

A process of examining the components of the drive train for wear, damage, or improper functioning.

Question 36

Input Clutch

Accepted Answer

A clutch in an automatic transmission that engages the input shaft with the transmission.

Question 37

Output Clutch

Accepted Answer

A clutch in an automatic transmission that engages the output shaft with the transmission.

Question 38

Drive Train Lubrication

Accepted Answer

The process of ensuring proper lubrication of drive train components to reduce friction and heat.

Question 39

Drive Train Noise

Accepted Answer

Unusual sounds coming from the drive train that may indicate a mechanical issue.

Question 40

Drive Train Vibration

Accepted Answer

Abnormal vibrations felt in the vehicle caused by imbalances or mechanical issues in the drive train.

Question 41

Shift Points

Accepted Answer

The engine RPM range at which gear shifts should occur for optimal performance and fuel efficiency.

Question 42

Torque Bias Ratio

Accepted Answer

The ratio between the torque applied to the drive wheels with the most traction and the other wheels.

Question 43

Drive Line Angle

Accepted Answer

The angle at which the drive shaft connects to the differential and transmission.

Question 44

Flywheel

Accepted Answer

A heavy rotating disc mounted on the engine's crankshaft that stores rotational energy and provides smooth power delivery.

Question 45

Torque Multiplication

Accepted Answer

The increase in torque achieved through gear reduction in the transmission.

Question 46

Driveline Disconnect

Accepted Answer

A system that disengages the drive shaft from the transmission, reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency.

Question 47

Slip Yoke

Accepted Answer

A sliding component at the rear of the drive shaft that allows for the variation in length during suspension travel.

Question 48

Bearing Preload

Accepted Answer

The force applied to a bearing to remove internal clearance and ensure proper operation.

Question 49

Drive Train Torque Management

Accepted Answer

Systems and strategies employed to control torque distribution and maximize traction.

Question 50

Differential Fluid

Accepted Answer

Lubricating fluid used in the differential to reduce friction and dissipate heat.

Question 51

Drive Train Overhaul

Accepted Answer

The process of disassembling, inspecting, and rebuilding drive train components to restore functionality.

Question 52

Drive Train Efficiency

Accepted Answer

The ability of the drive train to transmit power from the engine to the drive wheels with minimal loss.

Question 53

Driveline Runout

Accepted Answer

The measurement of any variation in rotational movement or misalignment in the drive shaft or axles.

Question 54

Drive Train Heating

Accepted Answer

The excessive buildup of heat in drive train components due to factors like friction, overloading, or inadequate lubrication.

Question 55

Drive Train Cooling

Accepted Answer

Measures taken to prevent overheating of drive train components, such as adding cooling fins or auxiliary coolers.

Question 56

Transmission Temperature Sensor

Accepted Answer

A sensor that monitors the temperature of the transmission fluid for proper operation and protection.

Question 57

Torque Converter Lock-Up

Accepted Answer

A mechanism that mechanically connects the engine and transmission at higher speeds to reduce slip and improve efficiency.

Question 58

Drive Train Service Interval

Accepted Answer

The recommended frequency or mileage at which drive train components should be inspected, maintained, or replaced.

Question 59

Driveline Phasing

Accepted Answer

The alignment of the driveline components to minimize vibrations and maximize power transfer.

Question 60

Drive Train Alignment

Accepted Answer

The adjustment of drive train components to ensure they are parallel and properly positioned.

Question 61

Drive Train Balance

Accepted Answer

The distribution of mass within the drive train components to reduce vibrations and improve performance.

Question 62

Drive Train Synchronization

Accepted Answer

The process of coordinating the operation of various drive train components for smooth and efficient power delivery.

Question 63

Drive Train Torque Rating

Accepted Answer

The maximum amount of torque the drive train components can handle without experiencing damage or failure.

Question 64

Drive Train Troubleshooting

Accepted Answer

The systematic process of identifying and resolving drive train issues through diagnostics and repair techniques.

ASE Medium-Heavy Truck Certification Flashcards: T3 Drive Train