Powerglide Transmission Gear Ratios [A-Z Details]
The Powerglide transmission has been the favorite of the bracket racing crowd due to its lightweight design and simplicity since it started in the 1950s. The aluminum Powerglide started in the early 1960s. But still, it is a popular option for car racers and restorers.
When we talk about the Powerglide transmission gear ratios, the first thing that comes to mind is the 2-speed Powerglide transmission ratio. Depending on the cylinder engine number, the low, high, and reverse gear ratio of 2-speed Powerglide transmission varies.
However, in today’s comprehensive article, we will cover the following:
- 2-speed Powerglide gear ratio in-details
- What is your Powerglide ratio, and how to identify it
- How to determine the gear ratio in case the transmission lays on the floor
- Definition of 3-speed Powerglide transmission
Now, don’t waste time, and let’s dive into the discussion:
Powerglide Transmission Gear Ratios [Explained Everything]
How many gears does a Powerglide transmission have? Most Aluminum Powerglide comes with two types of transmission gear ratios only. The details of these gear ratios are presented in the following table; so; take a look below:
Cylinder Engines | Low Gear Ratio | High Gear Ratio | Reverse Gear Ratio |
4 & 6 Cylinder Engines | 1.82: 1 | 1.00: 1 | 1.82: 1 |
8 Cylinder Engines | 1.76:1 | 1.00: 1 | 1.76: 1 |
However, the above-mentioned 1.76 and 1.82 are two first-gear ratios in OEM Powerglide. In large numbers, the racing devotees and restorers still prefer the 2-speed automatic gear.
The 1.82 gear ratio or gear set’s power limit is up to 550 HP engines. Therefore for maximum drag racing applications, the 1.82 setting is not perfect.
On the other hand, the stronger gear ratio is 1.76. And this gear set features heavier-duty gears and a machined steel carrier. Moreover, the HP engine power for the 1.76 gear set is 800 HP.
So, the conclusion is that the 1.76 gear ratio is a better option for high-performance usage.
How Do You Identify The 2 Speed Powerglide Gear Ratios?
Whether your Powerglide transmission ratio is 1.76 or 1.82, it’s crucial to know. Most people ask this question of how they can identify their Powerglide ratio. The answer is identifying the gear ratio is quite simple.
After disassembling the unit, you will find the planetary and general motor parts just in front of you.
Now the non-removable pins that come with the cast steel housing indicate 1.76 ratios. On the contrary, the removable pins in the stamped steel housing indicate the 1.82 ratios.
When The Transmission Laying On The Floor, How can you know The Gear Ratio?
If 1.76 or 1.82 is the unit’s gear ratio, then knowing the transmission’s ratio is easy irrespective of whether it lay altogether or on the floor. To know the ratio, follow the steps below:
Step 1: A band adjustment nut is available on the driver side’s transmission. First off find and loosen it. Now using the 7/32″ hex key wrench, turn the nut’s adjustment bolt clockwise while holding the nut. Make sure you turn the adjustment bolt tightly.
Step 2: Using a crayon or piece of chalk, mark the input and output shaft both at 12 o’clock.
Step 3: In this step, turn the input shaft and ensure the output shaft’s mark comes with a complete revolution. Now, for the 1.76 ratio, 1 ¾ turns should have been made by the mark on the input shaft. Also, the input shaft’s mark should point to 9 o’clock.
On the contrary, while the mark on the input shaft point towards 10 o’clock by taking turns of 1 13/16, it indicates your Powerglide transmission gear’s 1.82 ratios.
Note: To check the aftermarket ratios, you can use this procedure. But for each one, you need to check and find out the clock’s position. The clock position is almost the same for some gear ratios like 1.89 & 1.90.
What Is 3 Speed Powerglide Transmission?
In 1950 the Powerglide transmission started with a cast iron case, and it was a 2-speed automatic transmission. Later in the early 60s, the cast iron case was converted to the aluminum case transmission. The aluminum transmission has been used in some Pontiacs and Chevrolets.
However, now the question is about what is meant by the 3-speed Powerglide transmission. Actually, no Powerglide was available in 3-speed. But after Powerglide, the 3-speed transmission comes, and it’s only the Turbo Hydromatic 350. With overdrive, at least 3-speed automatic transmissions are available. More automatic transmissions like 5, 6 or even 7 will come soon.
Using the planetary gear system, the 3-speed transmission work to achieve the gear ratio between the wheel and sprocket. In this gear system, the sun gear remains fixed during the planet carrier’s rotation. The rotating planet gear causes the rotation of the ring gear. Using the shifter, the rider chooses the speed in 3 gear transmission.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Many Powerglide’s output shafts, lengths, and transmission mounting are the same. Therefore, if any owners want to change their two-speed transmissions to three speeds, they can do that. Easily the transmissions are interchangeable.
Modern Dexron fluid works fine in a Powerglide transmission.
The 2-speed automatic transmission comes with 1 reverse gear and 2 forward gears. Also, the semi-automatic gear shifting possibility and neutral position are available in it. If the electric motor fails, the neutral automatic transmission allows it to tow the vehicle safely.
End Note
So, in the above comprehensive article, we already well-described the Powerglide Transmission gear ratios. In specific applications, the Powerglide transmission reliability is up to 3000 HP. The planetary gear assembly is the backbone of the entire system.
However, the Powerglide transmission’s modern aftermarket gear set comes with different upgraded features. Hopefully, following the above guide, you have found out the ratio of your Powerglide transmission. Now, if you have any other queries, comment. ASAP we will reply to you.
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