What is the gap between gears?

[AmirLynn]

The meshing clearance between gears is generally 3ml to 4ml. Introduction to normal backlash: The shortest distance between non-working tooth surfaces when the working tooth surfaces of two gears are in contact. Meshing backlash refers to the shortest measured distance between the tooth profile of a cycloidal gear and the tooth profile of a pin gear when a pair of meshing cycloidal gears and pin gears are in the theoretical meshing position, measured along the connecting line between a pin tooth center and the node. Introduction to circumferential backlash: In a pair of meshing gears, when one gear is fixed, the maximum arc length of pitch circle that the other gear can rotate. Tooth side clearance refers to the circumferential play of one gear when the other gear in an assembled gear pair is fixed, measured as the arc length on the pitch circle.

[JessicaLynn]

I frequently repair car transmissions and find that the gap between gears is a major issue. Normally, maintaining this gap between 0.1 to 0.3 millimeters is ideal. It allows the gears to have some buffer space while rotating, preventing friction lock-ups or excessive wear. If the gap is too large, you'll feel the car shaking and making noises, with reduced transmission efficiency; if it's too small, it may cause overheating and damage the gears. I've measured it countless times with a micrometer, and usually, new cars come with a tight setting from the factory, but it becomes more noticeable as wear increases with use. In daily driving, if you hear clicking sounds or experience sluggish gear shifts, get it checked immediately. Regular oil changes and gear wear inspections help maintain proper clearance, or else serious problems can arise. Remember, the gap varies by car model, so don’t generalize—it’s best to let a professional shop handle it.

[LaBrandon]

My old car used to make strange noises when shifting gears, and I found out from the mechanic that it was due to gear backlash. Backlash refers to the small gap when gears mesh, usually controlled at around 0.2 mm. If it's too large, power transmission isn't direct, and the car lacks power when starting; if it's too small, resistance increases. I recorded the noise with my phone and compared it to identify the issue. The mechanic told me that backlash varies—new gears are tight, while old cars might have up to 0.4 mm. I think it's important to pay attention to any unusual sounds or vibrations while driving, as early detection makes solutions easier. Good lubrication can slow the expansion of backlash, so it's recommended to check the gear oil every few tens of thousands of kilometers. Don't overlook this small gap—it affects overall transmission performance and safety. Learning more about it ensures you won't panic next time an issue arises.

[JamesFitz]

When I first learned to drive, I was curious about what gear backlash was. It's like a small gap left between gears to prevent jamming, usually around 0.15 to 0.3 millimeters. If it's too narrow, the gears will collide hard and wear out quickly; if it's too wide, it causes noise and wastes fuel. I tried feeling it on a manual transmission - when the backlash is normal, gear shifting is smooth. Temperature changes also affect it, being slightly smaller when cold and larger when hot. During maintenance, a simple measurement and adjustment can prevent major repairs. Remembering common failure points and checking them periodically is always beneficial.