A healthy gearbox, also known as a transmission, is essential for smooth operation of any machinery. But just like an engine, gearboxes can overheat due to various factors. Overheating can lead to premature wear, increased friction, and even complete gearbox failure. With our vast oil and lubrication knowledge, we made the following guide to explore some possible causes of gearbox overheating and how to keep your equipment running smoothly.
Is My Gearbox Overheating?
Knowing the symptoms can help you know if a problem exists and direct you to what part of your vehicle to check out. For an overheating gearbox, signs include the following:
Burning smell
This is a strong indicator that something is wrong and needs immediate attention.
Discoloration of the gearbox housing
Extreme heat can cause the paint on the gearbox to discolor or even burn off.
Difficulty shifting gears
If your gears are grinding or difficult to shift or delay in shifting, it could be a sign of overheating and lubrication issues.
Unusual noises
Whining, grinding, or other abnormal noises coming from the gearbox could mean overheating and internal damage to your gearbox.
Reasons Your Gearbox May Be Overheating
If you notice that your transmission is overheating, the next step is to figure out why. Gearbox overheating can be linked to many different root causes, including the following:
Low or degraded lubricant
Gearbox oil, also known as transmission fluid, is essential for lubrication and cooling. If the oil level is low, dirty, or old, it can lead to increased friction and heat.
Incorrect lubricant
Using the wrong type of oil for your specific gearbox can be disastrous. Always check your owner’s manual or with a mechanic to make sure you’re using the right oil.
Overloading the Gearbox
Exceeding the gearbox’s designed capacity by towing heavy loads or operating in extreme conditions can cause overheating.
Internal Wear and Tear
Worn-out gears, bearings, or other internal components can create excessive friction and heat.
Clutch Problems
A faulty clutch can cause slippage, which generates excessive heat that can transfer to the gearbox.
Cooling System Issues
If your gearbox relies on an external cooling system (like an oil cooler), blockages or malfunctions can prevent proper heat from dissipating.
How To Keep Your Gearbox Cool
If your gearbox is getting a bit too hot to handle, there are many different recommendations to prevent gearbox overheating.
Regular Maintenance
Your user manual should include instructions and a schedule for what gearbox maintenance you should get based on age and mileage.
Inspect the Cooling System
Regularly check for leaks or blockages in the cooling system, since even the strongest parts will eventually break down.
Monitor Operating Temperatures
Some gearboxes have temperature gauges. If available, keep an eye on the temperature and shut down if it gets too hot.
Use the Right Oil
Always use the oil type and viscosity recommended for your specific gearbox.
Avoid Overloading
Don’t go over the weight or towing capacity limits of your equipment.
Count on Inventory Express for Quality Oils & Lubricants
At Inventory Express, we carry a large variety of high-quality oils and lubricants for all types of gearboxes. Our staff can help you choose the right oil for your specific equipment to make sure your equipment stays at peak performance and does not overheat.
If you suspect overheating, contact Inventory Express today. Our team of experts will help diagnose the problem and get you the parts you need to get your machine back in action.
