I have always heard the term "Drivetrain" (or "Drive Line") especially when car dealers are speaking about the warranty of cars they sell. Sometimes it is spelled out but sometimes it isn't so clear.
Question:
Just what does Drivetrain mean? What does it cover. From the engine to the differential? What parts of the engine, transmission or the differential does it cover?
Engine: Does it cover the crankshaft, rods, bearings, pistons, rings, valve train, valves, valve guides, carburetor, fuel pump, timing chain (or belt), timing gears, rings, oil pump, block, water pump, distributor and head, clutch assembly? Is the fan, fan belt, and radiator part of the drivetrain?
Transmission: All gears, bearings, and shafts, as well as the case?
Differential: Bearings, U-Joint(s), drive shaft, ring gear and pinion, gears, bearings and axles? How about the brakes and rims?
Back in 98, I had a Idler pulley come to a screeching halt right after I bought my 1993 GMC 1500 from a Chevrolet dealership. The dealer said the the idler pulley was not part of the drivetrain, which was under a 30-day warranty. (At the 40-day mark the transmission failed also. I bough a totaled Chevrolet 1500 for 800 bucks and salvaged the transmission out of it. Sold the engine (V-6) for 700.)
I'd just like to know the general consensus about what the term Drivetrain, et al, includes and whether it has always meant the same thing? To me it makes sense that if any part fails and interrupts the ability of the vehicle to go safely and, at speed, down the road then it is part of the drivetrain. Maybe all that stuff should be included.
Any thoughts?
Charlie
