The Basic Parts of an Automatic Transmission (Part 1)

This is part one of my front wheel drive (FWD) automatic transmission dissection video. In this video I cover the operation of clutches, bands, accumulators, clutch drums, the oil pump, the valve body, valves, check balls, seals and 'o' rings, as well as the construction and function of many of the internal hard parts of an automatic transmission. To be honest a rear wheel drive transmission isn't much different as many of the basic components are the same. I guess what I'm saying is that you could use the information in this video to have a basic understanding of a rear wheel drive automatic transmission also. It is just a basic overview of the main components. I don't get into theory and operation so much. Just the general operation and identification of the parts. I may make more videos on this topic based on the comments I get so feel free to ask questions and perhaps I'll answer them in a future video on this topic. There will also be a separate video on the parts and operation of the torque converter as well. When that is posted I'll post links below to that video.

Stay dirty

ETCG

Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information.  EricTheCarGuy assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. EricTheCarGuy recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video.  Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result.  Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not EricTheCarGuy.

[btarrh]

This tear-apart rocks the house, thanks for taking the time to post this. I'm a car guy myself and love repairing these items, my friends think I'm crazy but it's an addiction and adrenaline rush. I guess some guys get it, most guys don't. 

[ryanrabi]

who are you man ? you have dedicated half of your life for others to learn .God bless eric ii salute you

[crosstolerance]

Thanks for a very detailed and informative video about the inter-workings of a automatic transmission. As a car enthusiast, I appreciate your time and effort put into this video to educate us!

[ColettaHughes]

I have learned so much from you it's amazing. Not that I'd ever want to work on a transmission, but knowing how one works when talking to the mechanic is very reassuring. Thank you.

[ernst]

Great video, I 've driven manuals my entire life. I never imagined a AT Trans was going to be this interesting. Thanks for sharing your knowledge!

[cj]

Your videos are awesome! Being in the auto field, the on line tutorials from work are hours long, and not interactive at all. I learn so much watching your videos... right to the point. Keep on doing what you do!

[jgkay]

Whoever designed Automatic Transmission is a mad man who could think of this its amazing

[Nikiaf]

Informative videos like this should be mandatory for all drivers to watch. Understanding how components work can lead to less ripoffs at the garage, and potentially better drivers for understanding what's going on inside their cars.

[Djhg]

Never seen the inside of an automatic transmission before, amazing stuff!

[rgseven]

I am a final year engineering student and I this video is something I can truly relate to. Thanks a lot Eric!

[jeremybentley]

Brilliant! Eric. Truly wonderful mentoring. Refreshing to see such clare tutoring on the bench. Good one -Thank you

[PerryCS]

I think its absolutely fantastic that some geek way back said, if we put these thousands of pieces together we can have an automatic transmission. Fluids. Pressure. Grooves. Electronics. Precision machinery. All working together usually in harmony. The genius of the human race is absolutely astounding. Too bad we weren't smart about other things... but technology rocks! :) Great video. Clearly presented. Much appreciated :) <-- Computer programmer :) lol. Love seeing how things work!

[zarkosarar]

Thank you for your presentation. It was helpful to understand how work AT on my car, and what I must to do for long life of my car . Zarko (Croatia)

[PKwhl]

Thanks Eric, I have been an Automotive Engineer and no one ever explained the Torque Converter, as you did. I wish I had seen this about 10 years ago. Thanks again. Pl keep teaching us.

[automatictransmissionexper]

Automatic Transmission is a piece of art

[istishhadi]

Awesome video. I love how you explain how pressure is created. (most people would think the pump creates pressure). But really its the small passages that it goes through "the resistance of flow" that creates pressure. The explanation/visual representation of the the two gears that drive the pump was spot on. It almost resembles a turbocharger and how the turbine contains the air within the fins.

[ericthecarguy]

The TQ has it's own video after this series is done.

[andygarner]

I would have to watch this 13 times to really understand everything. Thanks for all your informative videos

[oDraastiK]

Not going to lie, when I got my current car (which is Manual, first one) I was worried about traffic. After about 2 weeks of owning the car, you're right. You really don't think about the motions after a while.

[getredytagetredy]

You are a great human being...Thank you for all of your work that you do to smarten up dummies like me....