Abstract: A multi-ratio power transmission for a vehicle having a torque-converter or fluid coupling, the output of which can be selectively coupled by clutches to a larger or a smaller sun wheel of a planetary gear set having long planet pinions meshing with the larger sun wheel and short planet pinions meshing with the smaller sun wheel and an output annulus. The small sun pinion is disposed on the input side of the planetary gearing, and a direct drive from the input of the transmission is selectively engagable to drive the planet carrier of the planetary gear set for use in establishing a direct wholly mechanical overdrive ratio bypassing the fluid coupling or torque-converter.

Abstract: A vehicle transmission comprises an epicyclic change-speed unit in series with a supplementary two-speed unit having a direct drive ratio and an indirect overdrive or reduction ratio, thereby doubling the number of ratios provided by the change-speed unit. A further ratio is provided by a compound connection between the change-speed and supplementary units.