If you don’t fix your broken transmission right away, they could easily ruin your week. We recently talked about the signs that your transmission may be damaged, but we’ve had several questions about what causes this damage.
Below are some of the most common causes of transmission failure in your heavy-duty truck.
Low transmission fluid level
All moving parts in a transmission need to be lubricated, which is done by transmission fluid. When there isn’t enough lubrication, the transmission is at risk of overheating, the gears can slip, and shifting becomes difficult.
If you just filled up but the level still seems low, you may have a leak. It’s also possible that the transmission fluid in your truck is the wrong type: consult your truck manual or consult an expert to make sure you have the right transmission fluid for your machine. Finally, faulty seals can cause leaks.
If you think there is a problem, take your vehicle to a qualified truck repair shop as soon as possible.
Problems with the torque converter
The torque converter connects your truck’s power supply and load, allowing automatic transmissions to function properly. If the torque converter is malfunctioning, it can damage the transmission.
Overheating, broken needle bearings, and even blade deformation are typical types of damage to the torque converter.
If the transmission fails, you may hear grinding noises coming from your torque converter.
Problems with the gearbox
Problems with your semi-truck’s gears are a common cause of transmission issues. Drivers should pay attention if a gear does not engage or stay in place.
You should also pay attention if:
- Your truck takes longer than usual to shift gears;
- The transmission slips;
- The engine speed is high;
If this is not the case, a leak may be the cause of the problem. This can also cause a humming, grinding, or whining noise.
Problems with the clutch
The clutch is used to control the transmission in manual trucks. Clutches are subject to wear and tear, so maintenance and replacement will be necessary at some point. Avoid using the clutch or leaving your foot on the clutch pedal to extend the life of your clutch.
Take care of your transmission and clutch. Know when to shift gears and avoid sudden starts. Shift gears smoothly, and when parking on a slope, use the handbrake to relieve pressure on your vehicle’s parts. Do not overload your vehicle, as this can cause its components to overheat. If necessary, you can use an auxiliary cooler for hot days on the road.
Why call on a truck transmission specialist?
Truck transmission repair is a complex operation that requires precise mechanical expertise. At RIL C.T. CAM, our truck center in Saint-Jérôme specializes in the repair, replacement, or refurbishment of truck transmissions and differentials.
We offer:
- High-quality remanufactured or refurbished transmissions to extend the life of your truck.
- New parts for heavy-duty and light-duty trucks, including differential and speed system components.
- Efficient sales, maintenance, and repair services tailored to the needs of heavy-duty vehicles and trailers.
RIL C.T. CAM specializes in the maintenance of all types of truck and commercial vehicle transmissions. No matter what type of heavy-duty truck you have, we have the skills and knowledge to maintain, repair, replace, or rebuild it.
If your transmission is due for regular maintenance or if you are experiencing shifting problems, call us to make an appointment or get a quote for your truck transmission repair. We look forward to providing you with our specialized heavy and light truck repair services at our truck center near Montreal.