RAM 2500 Van V8-5.9L VIN Z LDC (2000)
Clutch: Description and Operation
Pistons
DESCRIPTION
There are several sizes and types of pistons used in an automatic transmission. Some pistons are used to apply clutches, while others are used to apply
bands. They all have in common the fact that they are round or circular in shape, located within a smooth walled cylinder, which is closed at one end
and converts fluid pressure into mechanical movement. The fluid pressure exerted on the piston is contained within the system through the use of
piston rings or seals.
OPERATION
The principal which makes this operation possible is known as Pascal's Law. Pascal's Law can be stated as: "Pressure on a confined fluid is transmitted
equally in all directions and acts with equal force on equal areas."
PRESSURE
Fig. 50
Pressure (Fig. 50) is nothing more than force (lbs.) divided by area (in or ft.), or force per unit area. Given a 100 lb. block and an area of 100 sq. in. on
the floor, the pressure exerted by the block is: 100 lbs. 100 in or 1 pound per square inch, or PSI as it is commonly referred to.
PRESSURE ON A CONFINED FLUID
Fig. 51
Pressure is exerted on a confined fluid (Fig. 51) by applying a force to some given area in contact with the fluid. A good example of this is a cylinder
filled with fluid and equipped with a piston that is closely fitted to the cylinder wall. If a force is applied to the piston, pressure will be developed in
