Gearboxes and differentials

Gearboxes

A gearbox, also known as a transmission, is a component of a vehicle’s drivetrain that uses gears and gear trains to provide speed and torque conversions from a rotating power source to another device.
The gearbox allows drivers to control the amount of power the car can exert, making it possible to travel at different speeds.
The two primary types of gearboxes are manual and automatic. A third kind, semi-automatic, blurs the lines between manual and automatic.
In manual gearboxes, the driver manually selects and changes gears using the clutch and gear lever. They offer better control and usually have better fuel efficiency.
Automatic gearboxes change gears on their own, without any manual intervention. Although they are not as fuel-efficient as manual gearboxes, they are easier to use, especially in heavy traffic or on difficult terrains.

Differentials

The differential is a component designed to allow wheels to spin at different speeds. This is crucial when turning corners, as the inside wheel has to travel a shorter distance than the outside wheel.
By allowing the wheels to turn at different speeds, the differential ensures smooth turns and prevents wheel slip.
There are several types of differentials, including open, limited slip, and locking differentials.
An open differential is the most common type. It splits the torque two ways, allowing each wheel to rotate at a different speed.
A limited-slip differential (LSD) bridges the gap between an open differential and a locked differential. It splits the torque between the wheels, but it can also apply more torque to the wheel that has the most traction.
A locking differential locks both wheels on the axle together, so they spin at the same speed no matter the situation. This gives it a significant traction advantage over other differentials in challenging situations.