Gear Slipping: Causes, Consequences, And Troubleshooting

Gear reducers and gear motors play a vital role in numerous applications, including the automotive sector. However, it can also face a few problems, one of them being gear slipping. Gear slipping is a phenomenon where two consecutive gears that are meshed together slip or fail to mesh with each other. This leads to the loss of rotational speed and torque generation. In this blog, Bauer GMC, a major distributor of gear motors and AC electric motors, explores the major causes and effects of gear slipping, as well as possible troubleshooting steps.

Causes Of Gear Slipping

Worn Gears

With constant use, gears tend to break down or become worn out, especially the teeth. Gear teeth can fail to mesh with each other, leading to slipping.

Worn Clutch Plates Or Transmission Bands

In applications with manual transmission, worn clutch plates can lead to gear slipping. Similarly, in the case of an automatic transmission, worn transmission bands can also lead to unwanted slipping. 

Low Transmission Fluid

The presence of low transmission fluid in the gearbox/ gear reducers can lead to overheating and eventual reduction in hydraulic pressure. This leads to slipping of gears.

Misalignment

Misalignment of gears can also be a major reason for gear slipping. 

Consequences Of Gear Slipping

Reduction In Performance

The biggest effect of gear slipping is a reduction in performance, one of them being a decrease in acceleration, speed generation and power transfer. 

Grinding Noise

Loud grinding noise is another telltale sign of gear slipping. This sound is due to gears failing to engage.

Delay In Gear Engagement

Due to slipping gears, shifting gears might become a problem, and it can lead to the transmission failing completely if left unchecked.

Troubleshooting Gear Slipping

The best way to troubleshoot gear slipping is by inspecting the transmission thoroughly and checking for possible issues, such as worn clutch plates and gears, or low transmission fluid. Once the potential causes are identified, the appropriate repair or replacement can be considered.

Bauer GMC is a proud distributor of quality gear motors in Mississauga, Ontario. From helical gear motors and bevel gear motors to AC electric motors and more, we supply quality equipment for a wide variety of industries. Apart from distribution, we also undertake comprehensive gear motor repair and servicing. For more details, contact us today at 905-814-5152.