CVT technology

[Topcat]

Although this subject doesn't directly have anything common with Mopars or E bodies yet, I once took a ride in a Murano that has the CVT transmission. It is really something else not to have a shift point when going full throttle. Afterwards, I realized what potential it could have in drag racing. But I have yet to see anybody do this yet in drag racing and I can't understand why it hasn't been done yet. Any reason why this hasn't become more popular in drag racing? The transmissions only have 3 moving parts in them, they last indefinitly longer too. I would think that the RPM would stay in the sweet spot of horsepower and torque better without peaking out before the next gear comes in. Any thoughts on this?

[ShelbyDogg]

My kids raced Jr. Dragsters in the NHRA for 5 years. We uses Torque-a Verters that use the same techonogy. Also used in all of the golf carts.  They use a belt riding on pulleys that change in diameter depending on the speed of the spinning centrifugal weights.   Hybrid cars use CVT tranny's.  Lexus is showing a new commercial with it's new CVT car.  The only reason I see for them not using it for high horse power Drag cars is the BELT drive. The drive belt would wear or possibly even smoke and snap. It's easier to change clutches on a top fuel and funny car because they can control the slip with their clutch management programs. The cvt tranny to hit 300+MPH would use HUGE pulleys.

Rob

[Topcat]

OK, so there seems to be a limit as how much they can take and do with them