Abstract: A dual clutch transmission includes a pair of concentric clutches which selectively drive a pair of concentric drive shafts, pairs of gears in constant mesh, a first portion of which are associated with the first drive shaft and a first, parallel countershaft and a second portion of which are associated with the second drive shaft and a second, parallel countershaft. Synchronizer clutches disposed adjacent the gears on the countershafts selectively connect the gears to the countershafts. Both countershafts drive a single output shaft through transfer gears. The output shaft is coupled to a drive (input) pulley of a continuously variable final drive assembly which receives a chain which drives a driven (output) pulley which is coupled to and drives the cage of a differential assembly. A pair of axles are driven by the side gears of the differential and, in turn, drive the vehicle wheel.

Abstract: A cast aluminum differential housing for a motor vehicle powertrain having cast iron inserts. The housing is cast of light weight aluminum which weighs approximately one-third that of iron which has formerly been used to fabricate such housings. At locations of significant loads and wear, such as the mountings for the stub shaft associated with the two idler bevel gears, iron inserts are cast into the housing. The housing thus weighs significantly less than a comparable iron differential housing but since the two significant wear and load bearing regions include cast iron inserts, the aluminum differential housing of the present invention has the ruggedness, durability and service life of the much heavier iron housing.

Abstract: A cast aluminum differential housing for a motor vehicle powertrain having cast iron inserts. The housing is cast of light weight aluminum which weighs approximately one-third that of iron which has formerly been used to fabricate such housings. At locations of significant loads and wear, such as the mountings for the stub shaft associated with the two idler bevel gears, iron inserts are cast into the housing. The housing thus weighs significantly less than a comparable iron differential housing but since the two significant wear and load bearing regions include cast iron inserts, the aluminum differential housing of the present invention has the ruggedness, durability and service life of the much heavier iron housing.

Abstract: A dual clutch transmission includes a pair of concentric clutches which selectively drive a pair of concentric drive shafts, pairs of gears in constant mesh, a first portion of which are associated with the first drive shaft and a first, parallel countershaft and a second portion of which are associated with the second drive shaft and a second, parallel countershaft. Synchronizer clutches disposed adjacent the gears on the countershafts selectively connect the gears to the countershafts. Both countershafts drive a single output shaft through transfer gears. The output shaft is coupled to a drive (input) pulley of a continuously variable final drive assembly which receives a chain which drives a driven (output) pulley which is coupled to and drives the cage of a differential assembly.