If you've ever wondered how they work or wanted to explain to someone else - check out this link:

http://www.jatco.co.jp/ENGLISH/PRODUCTS/s_cvt.html

I've been trying to find information regarding the expected lifespan of the belt itself and whether it needs to be changed at a specific mileage like a camshaft timing belt.

 

The TCH doesn't have a belt driven CVT. It has an e-CVT which is purely electronic.

See this for a simplified explanation:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hybrid_Synergy_Drive

And this for some more info. I think this link is the best explanation of Toyota's E-CVT:
http://www.cleangreencar.co.nz/page/prius-transmission

And here is WMV movie showing how this works:
http://www.toyotageorgetown.com/hybrid/hybrid.wmv

 

Thanks TK...


I'm learning quickly about these cars.. What great technology!

In the Navy we had similar transmissions that were used in Tugs and smaller craft. They also used the Roller drives between Twin Discs. I think the company was "Bay" or something like that.. I'm remembering back to 70-71 timeframe so please forgive..
I remember being pretty impressed by the design at the time too!

Thanks for setting me and the record straight!

 

I'm remembering back to 70-71 timeframe so please forgive..

Hey, BIG FOOT, anyone that can remember anything at all from the early 70's doesn't need to feel bad

 

So asking the experts are there any belts (i.e water pump, etc) in the 2007 TCH? I know it has timing chain, but not sure if there is/are any belts in the car...

 

Yes, there is one belt, it goes from crankshaft to idler, tensioner and water pump. Everything else is electric and there is no old fashioned alternator.

 

Here's a fun toy that lets you play with the varying parts of the HSD. It'll also show you very clearly why the car won't go over 42 MPH in e-mode. Yes, it's based on the Prius, but the principles are the the same.

http://eahart.com/prius/psd/

 

Guys

I am a bit confused

My neighbor, who works for Nissan, told me that our CVT transmission is actually made by Nissan and that it was the same transmission that is in the Murano.

Apparently a very reliable one indeed...

BUT, when I read the Wikipedia posting, from TK's post, it's seems it is something else..

Just curious..


Bob

 

Your neighbor is mistaken. The Nissan Murano has the old variable pulley and belt CVT, unlike the TCH's.
http://www.canadiandriver.com/articles/hl/04murano.htm


Also here:
http://www.freshalloy.com/site/cars/...ech/home.shtml

Quote:

 

Toyota transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission, but outside of that fact it has very little to do with original CVT concept of coned drive and pick up pulleys. I think your Nissan friend is little confused: it is actually not Toyota ussing Nissan, but Nissan using Toyota's hybrid system, including transmission and not in Murano but in some of it's new Altimas which should go on sale by end of this year. You can also get CVT in Maxima if you want to.