Section 1. Introduction to the Powershift Transaxle This section is designed to acquaint you with the functioning's of a Powershift Transaxle and the safety precautions that should be taken when working on it. Other sections of this manual will cover these functions in greater detail.
Powershift Transaxle Overview
Clark lift trucks owe a large share of their excellent reputation to the Powershift Transaxle. The Powershift Transaxle is dependable and performs well in high-cycle, heavy-duty operations. The Powershift Transaxle consists of four units: •Torque Converter •Transmission •Transmission hydraulic system • Drive axle. The torque converter (often referred to as "converter") takes energy from the engine's flywheel and increases it as needed by multiplying torque. The converter transfers this energy to the transmission. Most Powershift Transaxles have two power-shifted packs: forward and reverse. A few transmissions will have an optional four-pack system: high and low in addition to forward and reverse. The drive axle transmits power to the wheels and differentiates the speed of the wheels. Both the converter and transmission are hydraulically operated (or fluid operated) sys tems that use transmission fluid (sometimes referred to as "oil") to increase transmission power as well as to cool and lubricate the Powershift Transaxle's mechanical parts. Throughout the years, Clark has produced numerous types of transmissions. The TA 12, TA18, and the TA 30 are examples of transmissions designed by Clark Material Handling Company. Because of the different types of transmissions and transaxles, how to troubleshoot, tear down, and rebuild specific transmissions and transaxles will be discussed in other classes. This class will focus on how a typical Powershift Transaxle works and how to trouble shoot it. This class will use the TA18 transmission as an example. Note Even though most transmissions will have the same parts, the names and locations of these parts may vary according to models. Always be sure you consult the appropriate manuals when you troubleshoot a transmission.
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Power Train Introduction page 5
