The Official CVT FAQ
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Samoan<^>(-_-)<^>Power
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The Official CVT FAQ
PLEASE STICKY MODS
I decided to write this faq because I wanted others to learn about the almighty CVT tranny. I dedicate this faq to the 2 other members that have CVT. Enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the purpose of CVTs?
To vary the transmission ratio continuously.
How do CVTs work?
It depends on the CVT type:
-Friction CVTs vary the radius of the contact point between two rotating objects, thus the tangential velocity
-Hydrostatic CVTs vary the fluid flow with variable displacement pumps into hidrostatic motors
-Ratcheting CVTs vary the stroke of a reciprocating motion, which is connected to a free-wheel, resulting unidirectional rotation.
***We have Friction CVTs
How do CVTs improve efficiency?
They allow the engine to operate allways in it's optimum R.P.M., whatever the vehicle's speed.
What are the benefits of operating in the optimum R.P.M.?
1. lower consumption 2. less greenhouse gas emissions 3. better performance
How does it compare to a regular auto transmission?
The CVT transmission provides less power loss than a typical automatic transmission, resulting in better efficiency and acceleration. Because of the smooth transition in gear ratios provided by the CVT transmission, the CVT provides constant, stepless acceleration from a stop all the way up to cruising speed. This contrasts with the jerk of gear changes experienced with a typical automatic transmission.
In a race, who has the advantage?
The CVT of course, the CVT transmission will allow you to keep the engine at 6000K plus RPM or whatever RPM you feel gives the most power while it continuously changes the pullies to create a gear ratio thats provides optimum performance.
Ok, I get it now, but we dont have CVT so how can we be as cool as you 3 guys that have it?
Honestly you cant. We CVT owners get the thrill of popping the CVT to sport mode, watch it rev to 6500 instantly (revs up like it was in neutral) and sit back and enjoy the sound of the engine as shes accelerates at peak performance. This reminds me of a story when my friend who is a hardcore chevelle guy wanted to see how the CVT ran. He hopped in and we went cruisin. We hit an empty rode, I threw the CVT in "S" mode, the engine soared to 6k rpms and was just screaming. I kept it like that for about 5 secs, my friend was like DAMN NICK, WHEN IS THIS BIT-CH GOING TO SHIFT. I looked at him and said......never my friend, she nevers shifts. i then began to cry (happy tears
) as i started to slow her down.
CVT Operation
The CVT transmission consists of an oil-pressure variable input (aka "driving") and output (aka "driven") pulley, and a metal belt that connects the two. With an oil-system clutch on the "driven" side, the Multimatic acts as an automatic transmission. The power output from the engine goes through: Front/Back Switch Mechanism -> Driving Pulley -> Metal Belt -> Driven Pulley -> Clutch.
The two pulley widths, adjusted by oil pressure, react to the position of throttle, speed, and other conditions. For instance, when the accelerator is depressed, the driving pulley width increases. At the same time, the driven pulley width decreases - the two combining for a "lower gear" effect.
By making such adjustments, we have full control over the entire gear range previously available to automatic transmissions. From LOW to OVERDRIVE - and everything in-between. In addition, the metal belt is highly flexible, and easily accommodates the ever-changing width of the pulleys, and transfer power efficiently without any slippage.
This difficult task of adjusting oil pressure, and adjusting to variable driving conditions is handled completely by the ECU, and allows the transmission to extract the maximum performance out of an engine - making this a revolutionary automotive transmission.
Warning: Advance Video Cards Required to view images below.
Heres some high tech 3-D diagrams that I made with Adobe Paint Shop Deluxe Professional Edition.
^^^Heres your standard CVT Tranny internals set at a LOW gear.
^^^Here you see Pullies #1 moving in creating a higher gear ratio.
^^^Now Pullies #2 move in to create an even higher gear ratio all while the engine is at is optimum RPM which equals constant power.
For those who couldnt see the pics because you dont have the appropriate equipment, email me and Ill send you some scaled-down (Black&White) versions. Dont blame me because my NASA computer is advance and high tech....
CVT Advantages
From its unique design, the Honda Multimatic is superior to conventional automatic transmissions using torque converters.
(1) Mobility
By using the 3D map control pattern, the CVT has the ability to stay in the same power band if/when needed. An example of this is the ability to remain in the high-rpm power band from a standstill to high speed. Because of this, full-throttle acceleration is equivalent to that of a manual transmission. In addition, when traveling at high speeds, because of its ability to infinitely adjust gear ratios, the CVT has more passing ability than not only the manual transmission but the conventional automatic transmission using torque converters. With these advantages and the ability to still "shift" to "L" to use the engine brake, there is nothing but advantages.
(2) Low Fuel Consumption
Because the CVT allows the engine to remain in its most optimal power range, excellent fuel economy is obtained. Compared to conventional automatic transmissions using a torque converter, there is zero slip, which translates into efficiency. In addition, the low-friction design and the side pressure regulator both contribute to excellent fuel economy.
(3) Smooth Acceleration
Because the newly designed clutch is installed on the driven shaft, smooth acceleration is possible. With appropriate creep, starting on hills or parking in garages can be done with ease. The difference in "feel" between the CVT and a conventional automatic transmission using a torque converter is minimal.
(4) Shock-Free "Shifting"
With the infinitely adjustable gear ratios at its disposal, the nudging motion caused by shifting is no longer present. Drastic jolting during lower gear acceleration is no longer present as well, leading to a stress-free, smooth driving experience.
(5) 2 Modes of Driving
Normal city/freeway driving with "D," and high-rpm power from "S." With the 2 modes of driving, you can select your car's behavior depending on your objectives, or situation you are in. Such precise control is only possible with the Honda CVT.
Thanks for reading, feel free to PM or email @ nsevaaetasi@hotmail.com if you have an questions or comments.
I decided to write this faq because I wanted others to learn about the almighty CVT tranny. I dedicate this faq to the 2 other members that have CVT. Enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the purpose of CVTs?
To vary the transmission ratio continuously.
How do CVTs work?
It depends on the CVT type:
-Friction CVTs vary the radius of the contact point between two rotating objects, thus the tangential velocity
-Hydrostatic CVTs vary the fluid flow with variable displacement pumps into hidrostatic motors
-Ratcheting CVTs vary the stroke of a reciprocating motion, which is connected to a free-wheel, resulting unidirectional rotation.
***We have Friction CVTs
How do CVTs improve efficiency?
They allow the engine to operate allways in it's optimum R.P.M., whatever the vehicle's speed.
What are the benefits of operating in the optimum R.P.M.?
1. lower consumption 2. less greenhouse gas emissions 3. better performance
How does it compare to a regular auto transmission?
The CVT transmission provides less power loss than a typical automatic transmission, resulting in better efficiency and acceleration. Because of the smooth transition in gear ratios provided by the CVT transmission, the CVT provides constant, stepless acceleration from a stop all the way up to cruising speed. This contrasts with the jerk of gear changes experienced with a typical automatic transmission.
In a race, who has the advantage?
The CVT of course, the CVT transmission will allow you to keep the engine at 6000K plus RPM or whatever RPM you feel gives the most power while it continuously changes the pullies to create a gear ratio thats provides optimum performance.
Ok, I get it now, but we dont have CVT so how can we be as cool as you 3 guys that have it?
Honestly you cant. We CVT owners get the thrill of popping the CVT to sport mode, watch it rev to 6500 instantly (revs up like it was in neutral) and sit back and enjoy the sound of the engine as shes accelerates at peak performance. This reminds me of a story when my friend who is a hardcore chevelle guy wanted to see how the CVT ran. He hopped in and we went cruisin. We hit an empty rode, I threw the CVT in "S" mode, the engine soared to 6k rpms and was just screaming. I kept it like that for about 5 secs, my friend was like DAMN NICK, WHEN IS THIS BIT-CH GOING TO SHIFT. I looked at him and said......never my friend, she nevers shifts. i then began to cry (happy tears
) as i started to slow her down.CVT Operation
The CVT transmission consists of an oil-pressure variable input (aka "driving") and output (aka "driven") pulley, and a metal belt that connects the two. With an oil-system clutch on the "driven" side, the Multimatic acts as an automatic transmission. The power output from the engine goes through: Front/Back Switch Mechanism -> Driving Pulley -> Metal Belt -> Driven Pulley -> Clutch.
The two pulley widths, adjusted by oil pressure, react to the position of throttle, speed, and other conditions. For instance, when the accelerator is depressed, the driving pulley width increases. At the same time, the driven pulley width decreases - the two combining for a "lower gear" effect.
By making such adjustments, we have full control over the entire gear range previously available to automatic transmissions. From LOW to OVERDRIVE - and everything in-between. In addition, the metal belt is highly flexible, and easily accommodates the ever-changing width of the pulleys, and transfer power efficiently without any slippage.
This difficult task of adjusting oil pressure, and adjusting to variable driving conditions is handled completely by the ECU, and allows the transmission to extract the maximum performance out of an engine - making this a revolutionary automotive transmission.
Warning: Advance Video Cards Required to view images below.
Heres some high tech 3-D diagrams that I made with Adobe Paint Shop Deluxe Professional Edition.
^^^Heres your standard CVT Tranny internals set at a LOW gear.
^^^Here you see Pullies #1 moving in creating a higher gear ratio.
^^^Now Pullies #2 move in to create an even higher gear ratio all while the engine is at is optimum RPM which equals constant power.
For those who couldnt see the pics because you dont have the appropriate equipment, email me and Ill send you some scaled-down (Black&White) versions. Dont blame me because my NASA computer is advance and high tech....
CVT Advantages
From its unique design, the Honda Multimatic is superior to conventional automatic transmissions using torque converters.
(1) Mobility
By using the 3D map control pattern, the CVT has the ability to stay in the same power band if/when needed. An example of this is the ability to remain in the high-rpm power band from a standstill to high speed. Because of this, full-throttle acceleration is equivalent to that of a manual transmission. In addition, when traveling at high speeds, because of its ability to infinitely adjust gear ratios, the CVT has more passing ability than not only the manual transmission but the conventional automatic transmission using torque converters. With these advantages and the ability to still "shift" to "L" to use the engine brake, there is nothing but advantages.
(2) Low Fuel Consumption
Because the CVT allows the engine to remain in its most optimal power range, excellent fuel economy is obtained. Compared to conventional automatic transmissions using a torque converter, there is zero slip, which translates into efficiency. In addition, the low-friction design and the side pressure regulator both contribute to excellent fuel economy.
(3) Smooth Acceleration
Because the newly designed clutch is installed on the driven shaft, smooth acceleration is possible. With appropriate creep, starting on hills or parking in garages can be done with ease. The difference in "feel" between the CVT and a conventional automatic transmission using a torque converter is minimal.
(4) Shock-Free "Shifting"
With the infinitely adjustable gear ratios at its disposal, the nudging motion caused by shifting is no longer present. Drastic jolting during lower gear acceleration is no longer present as well, leading to a stress-free, smooth driving experience.
(5) 2 Modes of Driving
Normal city/freeway driving with "D," and high-rpm power from "S." With the 2 modes of driving, you can select your car's behavior depending on your objectives, or situation you are in. Such precise control is only possible with the Honda CVT.
Thanks for reading, feel free to PM or email @ nsevaaetasi@hotmail.com if you have an questions or comments.
Last edited by krayziebonet4l; Aug 27, 2003 at 09:30 AM.
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Very interesting!?
I never though of the HX being sporty.
But the CVT tranny sounds really good for the automatic tranny honda owner.
You lucked out and didn't have to get a torque converter!
Plus you stated that it can be flipped into sport mode.
However, I love stick shifting my honda and milking the rpms myself.
Great FAQ though!
I never though of the HX being sporty.
But the CVT tranny sounds really good for the automatic tranny honda owner.
You lucked out and didn't have to get a torque converter!
Plus you stated that it can be flipped into sport mode.
However, I love stick shifting my honda and milking the rpms myself.
Great FAQ though!
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I looked at him and said......never my friend, she nevers shifts. i then began to cry (happy tears ) as i started to slow her down.
sooo what are the disadvantages?
there has to be some.
Registered!!
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From: Orange County, CA
Rep Power: 0 price maybe? its probably a lot more expensive than an auto obviously other than that it sounds like there are no possibly disadvantages unless you dont get to shift lol.
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From: Gaithersburg, MD
Rep Power: 413 It is very good for racing, and in most drags (at least with faster sports cars) they are aren't allowed. They don't actually shift so they hold an advtange over autos and manuals. So people with FI can fly down the frickin track! That is if they can get one to work. CVTs have a hard time handling lots of power, but they are getting better. Also they weigh a little more than standard 5 speed or auto.
From Edmunds
Because of this simplicity in design, CVT offers some advantages over traditional transmissions, although it also has certain drawbacks. For instance, its belt-driven orientation limits its application; until recently, cars with engines larger than 1.2 liters were considered incompatible with CVT. More and more, however, CVTs are becoming available that can handle more powerful engines, such as the V6 power plants found in some Nissan and Audi vehicles.
Other disadvantages include its larger size and weight.
Still, in the right situation, CVT's advantages outweigh its disadvantages. Less complexity and moving parts theoretically mean fewer things to go wrong and maintain.
From Edmunds
Because of this simplicity in design, CVT offers some advantages over traditional transmissions, although it also has certain drawbacks. For instance, its belt-driven orientation limits its application; until recently, cars with engines larger than 1.2 liters were considered incompatible with CVT. More and more, however, CVTs are becoming available that can handle more powerful engines, such as the V6 power plants found in some Nissan and Audi vehicles.
Other disadvantages include its larger size and weight.
Still, in the right situation, CVT's advantages outweigh its disadvantages. Less complexity and moving parts theoretically mean fewer things to go wrong and maintain.
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From: San Diego, California, US
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Ok...I think I've seen an HX with a stick in it...and I think I've seen an HX with an automatic in it. I checked the Honda website spec sheet on the HX and it lists both the 5 speed manual, and a CVT tranny as standard equipment. I am confused. If it's a CVT how can it be a 5 sp stick??? Anyone know??
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straight from www.hondacars.com:
Manual Transmission
Manual Transmission with Front Side Airbags
Continuously Variable Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission with Dual Side Airbags
those are the different HX models. so basically there's stick or CVT trannys for them.
Manual Transmission
Manual Transmission with Front Side Airbags
Continuously Variable Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission with Dual Side Airbags
those are the different HX models. so basically there's stick or CVT trannys for them.
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From: New England
Rep Power: 0 Awesome FAQ. CVT's ARE the best solution for transferring engine power to the wheels. If it wasn't for the fact that they become WAY too large when trying to handle heavy power, we would all be using them. Like it says in the FAQ, it keeps your engine in the optimum RPM range regardless of wheel speed. This gives you the best performance AND the best fuel efficiency depending upon the demands of the situation.
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Samoan<^>(-_-)<^>Power
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Rep Power: 0 Sorry I havent replied lately. I've been in California since Thursday. Thanks to everyone who have read the FAQ so far.
I paid 14350 before TTL. I think I got a good deal.
No, you would have to use the k20 tranny.
price maybe? its probably a lot more expensive than an auto obviously other than that it sounds like there are no possibly disadvantages unless you dont get to shift lol.
so if you have a k20 you cant use these trannys?
Thread Starter
Samoan<^>(-_-)<^>Power
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Rep Power: 0 ^^^Yeah they are. The 2003 Nissan Murano w/ cvt has 245 @ 5,800 HP and 246 @ 4,400 rpm TORQUE stock which im sure it can handle 300 hp/tq. My HX has owned a 35 shot and it will definietly own a 55 shot once I get my ZEX kit.
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Rep Power: 812 My friend has a lightly modded 6th gen civic with cvt and that thing smoked my auto 7th gen. When I was riding with him, it felt extremely fast for a vic and switched gears instantly.
Proud Srt4 owner
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From: Spangdalhem AFB, Germany
Rep Power: 0 Originally posted by gearbox
My friend has a lightly modded 6th gen civic with cvt and that thing smoked my auto 7th gen. When I was riding with him, it felt extremely fast for a vic and switched gears instantly.
My friend has a lightly modded 6th gen civic with cvt and that thing smoked my auto 7th gen. When I was riding with him, it felt extremely fast for a vic and switched gears instantly.
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From: Billerica, MA
Rep Power: 0 even though you say there's no slipage, and the ecu has the capability of putting the car in optimum gear, the manual HX still has better fuel economy listed by honda, 44mpg as opposed to CVT's 40. i wonder why?
Proud Srt4 owner
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Rep Power: 0 update, the cvt has handled 10lbs of boost and ive been turbo'd since october, it has put up with 5 bottles of nitrous also.......
who said this tranny couldnt handle power?????????????
who said this tranny couldnt handle power?????????????
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From: Columbia, MD
Rep Power: 0 ^^thats cool its taking the power^^
question though, why can't a normal auto transmission have an automatic clutch thing? and I agree a clutch is gonna be more efficiant that a torque converter, so why haven't they implemented them?
question though, why can't a normal auto transmission have an automatic clutch thing? and I agree a clutch is gonna be more efficiant that a torque converter, so why haven't they implemented them?
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Rep Power: 402 Originally posted by BoostedCivicZex
update, the cvt has handled 10lbs of boost and ive been turbo'd since october, it has put up with 5 bottles of nitrous also.......
who said this tranny couldnt handle power?????????????
update, the cvt has handled 10lbs of boost and ive been turbo'd since october, it has put up with 5 bottles of nitrous also.......
who said this tranny couldnt handle power?????????????
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