I haven't seen any info, but I would believe there is a fluid coupling=20
(torque converter) between the engine and transmission. All (well nearly=20
all) automatic transmissions normally engage the clutches softer=20
(slower) than what might be easily possible for comfort with smooth=20
shifts. The sportier current models have a driver selectable sport mode=20
(sometimes several variable) that shortens shift times for better=20
performance at expense of comfort. I installed a "shift kit" in my Ford=20
Bronco to make the 1 - 2 and 3 - 2 shifts quicker to minimize wear on=20
the clutch and better acceleration. The kit consisted of a little large=20
hydraulic piston and spring to increase the hydraulic pressure on the=20
clutch cylinder. This is an electronic controlled transmission with=20
solenoid valves controlling pilor pressure hydraulic fluid flow. The=20
result with a cold transmission and full throttle upshift is neck=20
jarring, and sometimes squeaking the tires. The quick shifts result in=20
much less wear and tear on the clutches when pulling trailers in the=20
mountains with speeds near the normal shift points. And yes there are=20
times when you move the lever to the lower gear to prevent frequent=20
up/down shifts. Just let the engine run near the red line in the lower=20
gear. :)
> I am curious - do these dual-clutch automatic transmissions
> automatically slip the clutch to provide static torque? For example,
> what happens if you are facing up a hill and you try to apply just
> enough throttle to hold position on the hill? The torque-converter
> type transmission can just dissipate the engine's work as heat in the
> fluid of the converter. A person would normally do this by slipping
> the clutch on a manual transmission, I think. It would seem that the
> automatic transmission using clutches would have a higher risk of
> damaging the clutches if it were driven by someone who was used to the
> torque-converter type because there might be a lot of clutch slipping
> going on.
>
> Sean
--=20
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