How Much Does a Transmission Weigh?

How Much Does A Transmission Weigh? This is a question you might ask for various reasons.

Transmission weight varies for different car make and model. However, some of them could have similar weights based on the vehicle size; that is to say, the transmission size determines the car’s size.

As you read further in this article, you will understand the weight of different car transmissions and how they affect car performance.

The weight of transmissions in front-wheel vehicles varies from 90 to 300 pounds.

Transmissions in rear-wheel drive, four and five-speed vehicles weigh approximately the same.

Generally, the weight of their transmissions is high for semis, trucks, and various huge vehicles.

The major types of transmissions you would see are commonly known as the stick shift or manual and the automatic. We also have the dual-clutch or the automated manual, which is in-between.

Also Read: How Long Does Transmission Last? (Answered)

Common uses to know transmission weight if you need to:

1. Use a truck to carry it.
2. Raise it into a carport
3. Move it inside the vehicle
4. Take it to the location.

Transmission arrives in various sizes and types varying from lighter to heavier, depending on the design and performance.

 Common Transmission Weight

As mentioned earlier, based on the model and the type of your vehicle, the weight of the transmission could be in the range of 100 to 400 pounds.

The transmission’s weight and size will determine the car’s size. This implies that a small sedan is lighter than a minivan in terms of weight.

A front-wheel-drive sedan has a transmission weighing 100 pounds, while an SUV or a huge van can weigh about 400 pounds and above. So the weight of the transmission of a rear-wheel-drive vehicle and a front-wheel-drive vehicle is not that different.

Why Does the Weight of Transmission Matter?

It is important to be aware of the weight of the vehicle’s transmission when contemplating putting your car for sale, purchasing parts, and when you want to work beneath your vehicle or the gearbox. In any case, it is also essential to know the transmission weight, which should be between 100-400 pounds based on the type of vehicle.

This goes with the common saying that the bigger the weight of your transmission, the bigger the size. So a small sedan would have a light transmission compared to a minivan.

Which Is Heavier: Automatic or Manual Transmission?

The difference in the weight between the manual and automatic gearboxes is usually around 50 to 75 pounds, and the manual transmission is lighter. This comparison is necessary, especially when you want to purchase a new one for the vehicle.

The cheapest transmission is the manual transmission. However, there is a notable contrast if you compare it with the automatic transmission with similar gear ratios and torque. This contrast describes why automatic automobiles have bad fuel economy and more loss from the drive train.

Why do automatic transmissions weigh more? The reason is in their structural build. Automatic transmissions are made with an iron casing, but the casing used in a manual transmission is mostly made of aluminum. Because of this, automatic transmissions are typically 20 to 30 pounds heavier.

Additionally, some replacement of hardware is considered. The automatic transmission comes with many parts compared to manual transmissions. This increases the chance of it being heavier and larger.

Does this mean that the automatic transmission is slower because it is heavier? Not at all. The weight difference does not affect the performance. Therefore, feel free to choose your preferred transmission.

Some persons prefer the manual gearbox cause it provides control and lets them accomplish their dreams of owning a particular vehicle like the Lamborghini. In contrast, the others select the automatic gearbox because it’s easy to drive.

Also Read: How Long Does it Take to Rebuild a Transmission? [+ Cost]

Why Do Transmissions Weigh a Lot?

The major reason why transmissions weigh a lot is that it contains all the essential gears the engine needs to function properly. This is important for keeping the transmission in check when working. It also assists in maintaining the car’s control and the transmission’s power.

Which Model of Transmission Is the Heaviest?

So far, Allison 4500 is the heaviest transmission model, which is found in MTVR ( Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement). This transmission is created so that it can stand the input of 1200 pounds torque, also in the face of an automobile with a gross weight of 60,000lbs.

Most times, the Allison is used in designing military vehicles, although it has a good commercial use.

Also Read: Transmission Mount (Functions, Symptoms & Replacement)

Frequently Asked Questions – How Much Does A Transmission Weigh?

Conclusion – How Much Does a Transmission Weigh?

The transmissions are relatively heavy regarding the number of parts and auto equipment. Therefore, safety protocols must be adhered to when changing or putting parts.

When considering moving the transmission, it is necessary to be aware of the right weight. If you have doubts and want to be sure, look over the manufacturers’ website; it will help.