Which part of a synchronizer is splined to a shaft?
a. Synchronizer sleeve
b. Hub
c. Synchronizer ring (blocking ring)
d. Speed gear
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is b. Hub.
Explanation:
In a manual transmission, a synchronizer is a critical component that helps match the speeds of the rotating gears and shaft before engagement. The hub is the part of the synchronizer that is splined to the shaft. Let’s break down the components of a synchronizer and their roles in the transmission system.
- Hub: The hub is a central part of the synchronizer assembly, and it is splined to the shaft. This means that the hub has grooves or teeth that mesh with similar grooves or teeth on the shaft, allowing it to rotate with the shaft. The hub typically serves as the mounting point for the synchronizer sleeve and is responsible for transferring rotational motion between the shaft and other components, such as the speed gears.
- Synchronizer sleeve: The synchronizer sleeve slides along the hub, and its primary function is to engage or disengage the speed gears. The sleeve moves to mesh the teeth of the speed gears with those of the hub. It is not splined to the shaft directly, but it works in conjunction with the hub to engage the gears.
- Synchronizer ring (blocking ring): The synchronizer ring, or blocking ring, is responsible for synchronizing the speed of the gears before they mesh. It engages with the gear teeth to slow down or speed up the rotating components, allowing smoother gear shifts. The synchronizer ring is not splined to the shaft but works with the hub and sleeve to perform its function.
- Speed gear: The speed gear is the gear that meshes with the corresponding gear on the shaft to provide the desired gear ratio. Speed gears are not splined directly to the shaft either but are engaged through the synchronizer components, like the hub and sleeve.
Therefore, the hub is the key component that is splined to the shaft, ensuring the transmission of rotational force in the synchronizer system.