Do pay attention at the back, that was explained many posts ago.....
Torque Converter automatic. Which, to my view is a "proper" automatic with an epicyclic gearbox, as opposed to DSG (or similar gearboxes) which are basically a glorified robotised manual that has the same sort of gearing in it. With a DSG type gearbox you get positive (quick) and noticeable gear changes (unless very gentle on the throttle) whereas with a torque converter the gear changes tend to be "slurred". Hence an early term for them was a "slush box"
The construction, and operation, of both types is wildly different.
If you have a snoop on YouTube I am sure there are schematics explaining both. That will be far easier to understand than any written explanation!!
I’ve just switched from a torque converter box (Aisin 8 speed in a Volvo) to a 7 speed DSG in an Audi and didn’t notice any difference when reversing the caravan onto it’s pitch yesterday. I have to reverse it down our cul-de-sac when we return home on Thursday so I’ll pay more attention and see if it really does feel any different.
Interestingly, all variants of the 2018-on Audi A6 range, including S6 and RS6, can come with either a 7-speed "S-Tronic" DCT or 8-speed "Tiptronic" torque converter automatic - I don't know what determines which is fitted.
Interesting, mines definitely the 7 speed (I counted them 😂 ), not sure which ones got the 8 speed though
I hope so, I can’t cope with many more as I run out of fingers to count them on!
It was just the TC I enquired about.
I am well aware of the differences from a layman’s point of view. But cannot agree with you re the differences. DSG have caught up and are now similar in ability.
Early DSG’s were certainly poor. Both types have developed. TC box’s are no longer the fuel guzzlers that they were. I have driven both, DSG’s with silky smooth changes, and a TC in which it felt like I was being rear ended when it changed down.
John
Our vehicle has 8 forward speed and one reverse. Not sure, but a TC may not require software to operate, but with a DSG software is essential. It was the software that made our Mondeo with the Powershift uncomfortable to drive and it was a major complaint on earlier Mondeos.
Probably to control the manual selection as slush box without software has been around for over 100 years, but perhaps the software is not as extensive as in a DSG box? I think the first TC were used in a boats in about 1905 and then in vehicles in the 1930s.
My previous XC40 had a "slush box" which could be quite jerky, particularly when slowly approaching a roundabout ready to accelerate into a gap. This resulted in a big jolt as the box thought "oh, no I'm in second, he's put his foot down, better change down to first". Software updates gradually improved this, but never eliminated it. Also modern slush boxes "lock up" with clutches to limit the inherent "slip" they have.
The Sportage has a Hyundai Transys box, which replaces either DC's or TC with the electric traction motor, which engages and disengages to take up drive or change gear. There's also no reverse, the electric motor does that job!
This can also get "caught out" as above, but is certainly as good if not better than the Aisin Warner box in the Volvo. As an aside, the economy is excellent - yesterday did a run of 59.9 miles at 57.4 mpg.
This article covers everything you need to know about TCs.
www.databridgemarketresearch.com
Torque Converters: Revitalizing Modern Automotive Transmissions
Explore the resurgence of torque converters in automotive transmissions, highlighting their efficiency and fuel economy improvements in modern vehicles.
www.databridgemarketresearch.com
I feel certain that the XC40 had the DSG box and not TC, but I am probably wrong? The 2004 S80 that we had did not have the torque convertor box. When we purchased the car, we never knew the difference and assumed it was a standard TC box. Unfortunately it was the DSG box and it was awful. After 18 months we took a hit and traded in the car. Then in 2010 we went through the same shenanigans with the Mondeo.
I was under the impression that the TC was basically a British invention and used in busses in the '30s. Prior to that a German conceived the idea in about 1905 and used in steam engines in boats. file:///C:/Users/imk/Downloads/01_Torque_converters.pdfThis article covers everything you need to know about TCs.
Torque Converters: Revitalizing Modern Automotive Transmissions
Explore the resurgence of torque converters in automotive transmissions, highlighting their efficiency and fuel economy improvements in modern vehicles.
However I think your gives another insight into the TC and is also interesting.
Explanation of auto gearbox, there is separate one on TC and its lockup clutch. Onces rolling and lockup clutch engaged should be just as efficient as manual.
View: https://youtu.be/u_y1S8C0Hmc?si=1Tybu946kQvW-Nix
Absolutely correct .
Invented in 1905 in Stettin, Ger- many, by Dr. Hermann Föttinger of the Vulcan Ship Yards, the torque converter was originally a steam turbine drive for a ship propeller. It gra- dually found its way into the mainstream auto- motive industry over the following 25 years.
My original link is about the auto box which was a USA concept but all accept the TC was German used in a marine application.
The software on a modern TC auto box is very sophisticated to the extent it adapts imo to the individuals driving style. When descending applying the brakes on and off will cause the box to drop,to a lower gear enabling engine braking.
Basic "slush boxes" got electronic controls in the 80s and have extended their software in the intervening years
I had VW autos in the seventies and then no autos until 2004 so no idea, but thanks for the update as interesting. Gone are the days when I used to service my cars. The last car I serviced was a 1984 Volvo 340 and it was a manual.
No, they use the Aisin T/C boxes. In my experience with a V90 it was a great gearbox surrounded by unreliable uncertainty! 😂
TBH I do not know the difference between the DSG and Aisin TC box so over my head. LOL!
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