2012GENERAL MOTORS F17 FIVE-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION

Vehicle Applications

Chevrolet Sonic

Product Highlights

  • Five-speed transmission for transverse applications with integrated differential
  • Lightweight two-shaft design
  • New synchronizer system for high shift quality
  • Triple-cone synchronization on first and second gears
  • One-piece aluminum housing with separate composite bearing plate
  • Maximum engine torque capacity of 129 lb.-ft. (175 Nm)
  • Maximum gearbox torque capacity of 140 lb.-ft. (190 Nm)

Overview

General Motors’ F17 is a robust yet compact five-speed manual transmission for front-drive vehicles with a transversely mounted engine. Its design incorporates the axle differential for easier packaging in smaller vehicles. The F17 is featured in the new Chevrolet Sonic in North America with the Ecotec 1.8L engine. The F17 5-speed manual transmission is also featured in many other GM brands across the globe.

Premium features include triple-cone synchronizers for first and second gears and a new synchronizer system for a high-quality shift feel. All forward gears are synchronized. All of the forward gears and final drive in the differential are hard-machined for durability.

A 3.73 first gear ratio enables a strong feel of acceleration in the Sonic and the overdrive 0.89-ratio fifth gear contributes to the car’s excellent fuel economy.

Design Details

The F17 manual transmission has a one-piece, aluminumhousing with a separate composite bearing plate and integrates the differential within the compact and lightweight housing. It weighs only about 70 pounds (31.7 kg) without fluid and is only 14.3 inches long (365 mm).

The two-shaft design of the transmission places all of the gears behind one another, with a housing extension that covers the fifth gear set. The synchromesh system for the gears uses triple-cone synchronizers for first and second gears, for enhanced low-gear engagement that manifests as smoothers and easier launch and shifting characteristics for the driver. All of the F17’s forward gears and final drive are hard-machined for greater durability.

Additional design features include:

  • An adjustment ring for tapered roller bearing adjustment
  • The capacity for mechanical or hydraulic clutch actuation
  • The capacity for a rod- or cable-actuated shift system.

The F17 uses conventional gear oil and no maintenance is required under normal operating conditions. Fluid changes are recommended for severe duty. A hydraulic clutch eliminates adjustments throughout the lifespan of the transmission.

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