Abstract: A compact manual transmission includes an input shaft and plural countershafts, one of which serves as the output shaft and the other of which serves both as a countershaft for obtaining a low reduction ratio forward drive and as a reverse idler shaft. Low forward drive is through a gear train comprising three reduction ratio gear sets controlled by a single clutch. Reverse drive is through two reduction ratio gear sets controlled by a single clutch. The transmission is particularly adaptable for use in an automotive vehicle having a transversely mounted engine. The transmission is further adaptable for direct connection with the ring gear of an associated differential, such as in a front-wheel drive vehicle.

Abstract: A power transfer mechanism incorporates a planetary or epicyclic gear set which may be shifted between high and low-range conditions to establish direct drive and reduction ratio drive modes. The ring and planet gears are unloaded in high, thus avoiding vibration and wear commonly experienced when running locked up. The carrier defines an output member within which the planetary assembly is nested, thereby providing a shortened installation length for this type of unit. A shifting sleeve under the ring gear bearing support further shortens installation length. The sleeve includes a floating shift collar which does not disengage from the ring gear, thus eliminating one set of mesh points commonly encountered in this type of range selection.

Abstract: A power transfer mechanism incorporated in a multiple path drive system comprising a transfer case disposed between a source of input torque and a pair of drive axles. Torque is transferred directly to one drive axle and is transferred automatically to the other drive axle through a double-acting overrunning clutch when required. The clutch is biased toward one engaged position, and is prevented from locking inadvertently in the other engaged position by a direction-sensitive blocking device.