Rear Wheel Torque Calculator

Rear Wheel Torque Formula:

\[ \text{Rear Torque} = \text{Engine Torque} \times \text{Transmission Ratio} \times \text{Axle Ratio} \]

Rear Wheel Torque:

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1. What Is Rear Wheel Torque?

Rear wheel torque is the actual torque delivered to the wheels after accounting for gear reduction through the transmission and differential. It represents the rotational force that propels the vehicle forward and is a key factor in acceleration performance.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the rear wheel torque formula:

\[ \text{Rear Torque} = \text{Engine Torque} \times \text{Transmission Ratio} \times \text{Axle Ratio} \]

Where:

Engine Torque — The torque output from the engine (N·m)
Transmission Ratio — The gear ratio of the currently selected transmission gear
Axle Ratio — The final drive ratio in the differential

Explanation: The formula multiplies engine torque by both gear ratios to calculate the torque multiplication effect that occurs through the drivetrain.

3. Importance Of Rear Wheel Torque Calculation

Details: Calculating rear wheel torque is essential for understanding vehicle performance characteristics, including acceleration capability, towing capacity, and overall drivetrain efficiency. It helps in gear selection optimization and performance tuning.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter engine torque in Newton-meters (N·m), transmission ratio (unitless), and axle ratio (unitless). All values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is rear wheel torque higher than engine torque?
A: Gear reduction in both the transmission and differential multiplies torque, resulting in higher torque at the wheels than at the engine output.

Q2: How does gear selection affect rear wheel torque?
A: Lower gears (higher numerical ratios) provide greater torque multiplication, while higher gears provide less multiplication but higher speed potential.

Q3: What is a typical transmission ratio range?
A: Transmission ratios typically range from about 2.5:1 to 4.5:1 for first gear, decreasing to around 0.6:1 to 1:1 for highest gear in manual and automatic transmissions.

Q4: How does axle ratio affect performance?
A: Higher axle ratios provide more torque multiplication for better acceleration and towing, while lower ratios allow for higher top speed and better fuel efficiency at highway speeds.

Q5: Does this calculation account for drivetrain losses?
A: No, this calculation provides theoretical maximum torque. Actual wheel torque will be slightly lower due to friction and efficiency losses in the drivetrain components.