What does syncro mean on a VW?
Syncro is Volkswagen’s name for any of its vehicles using their Syncro AWD (All Wheel Drive) system. It’s also fitted to some VW cars as well as the later FWD T4 Transporter, but was first introduced around 1985. The VW t4 Syncro blends the car like VW T4 chassis comfort with the robust and rugged Syncro all-wheel-drive system. Volkswagen’s VW t4 Syncro replaced the much loved T3 model.The VW T4 has earned its status as a classic campervan for good reason. Its timeless design, versatility, reliability, and strong community appeal have ensured its enduring popularity even in today’s market.
What is a syncro gearbox?
A synchromesh gearbox is a usually manually operated transmission in which a change of gears takes place between gears that are already revolving at the same speed. While synchros are typically very reliable and extend the life of your gears, occasionally they do malfunction. Whether it’s from dirty lubricant, heat, or wear and tear, eventually a synchro will stop synchronizing as well as it used to.Conversely, improper engagement of a gear (when the engine and transmission speeds aren’t matched) can cause wear on the synchros and lockouts, and damage the gears by physically grinding them together due to a difference in speed.Replacing a synchromesh involves removing the gearbox from the car and having a specialist replace the part; as the actual component is relatively cheap, it’s usually worth refreshing them on every gear.A synchronizer does exactly as the name suggests. It equalizes its speed with that of the next gear to be engaged, allowing a smooth, crunch-free selection. Modern synchronized manual transmissions are of the “constant mesh” variety.
Why do synchronizers go bad?
While synchros are typically very reliable and extend the life of your gears, occasionally they do malfunction. Whether it’s from dirty lubricant, heat, or wear and tear, eventually a synchro will stop synchronizing as well as it used to. You really shouldn’t need to try to preserve the synchros in modern cars. Depending on the mileage, your cars transmission was either abused or had a fault from the factory that caused premature wearing of the synchros. Generally the synchros should last as long as the transmission itself.Only way to save synchros is keep good fluid in the trans and dont shove into gears… you cant reverse damage thats already done. But you can Keep your trans and rebuild it…. You can put new synchros in and its a lot easier than rebuilding an auto…. Then you can swap it back in later down the road.
How do Syncros work?
The purpose of a synchroniser is to simplify the gear change process and to prevent the need for ‘double de-clutching’. A synchroniser is a ring device that is placed between the driving gear and the synchroniser hub and acts through friction to equalise the speeds of the main shaft and the desired drive gear. The most common synchronizer design is the “cone clutch” or “blocker ring” type.A synchro is a little clutch that gets the main gear spinning at the right speed, more or less, before shifting into that gear. The shifting is done with a sliding piece that has teeth to connect it to the main gear, and a cone shaped clutch that presses against the gear before engaging it.
What happens when synchros go bad?
If the sound comes only when you’re downshifting, look into synchro problems. Problems with the gears themselves are also an indicator of synchronizer issues. A worn synchronizer can also cause the transmission to jump into neutral after you shift into gear. This can be a dangerous problem when you’re out on the road. If your gear synchronizers have become worn down or are otherwise damaged, your vehicle’s transmission may start to make strange noises. When there is an issue with a gear synchronizer, you will often hear grinding noises while in a specific gear or while downshifting.Beware a shake, jerk or grind Automatic gearbox telltale signs include hesitation, slipping, or “trembling” during gear changes. Manuals are more likely to grind. Jerking and clunking noises are more likely to be caused by failing engine and transmission mounts.Here are some tell-tale signs: Difficulty Shifting Gears: Finding it hard to smoothly change gears? A worn Synchronizer Ring can make gear transitions feel like a workout. Noticeable Grinding Sound: Hearing a grinding or crunching noise when shifting?When something’s wrong with the synchronizer, the first sign is usually a whirring or humming noise. This is the case if you’re hearing the sound at just one specific gear, rather than through the full range of gears. Similarly, problems with the synchronizer can cause a grinding sound.With a vehicle with a gearbox bearing failure symptoms, you may experience shaking, jerking or grinding while behind the wheel. Automatic gearbox issues often involve hesitation, slipping, or trembling during gear changes. Manuals are more likely to grind when suffering a gearbox fault.