gemdc Report post Posted April 7, 2013 Does anyone have a good theory (facts would even be acceptable) as to how the rather conventional looking clutch plate works in our Fusion hybrids? I am guessing it is just a passive plate between the ICE and the transaxle that slips a bit when the ICE starts up. Don't think the Prius has one. I found it on FordParts.com. In my theory, it doesn't ever release the planet gear carrier from turning with the ICE and stopping when the ICE stops. At any rate these trannys are very clever. 1 hybridbear reacted to this Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
gemdc Report post Posted August 7, 2013 I can close this question with some facts found in some demos of the Toyota Prius transaxle. Yes, the Prius has a "clutch plate" too between the ICE and the transaxle. These look like a clutch but they are always engaged by a pressure plate which is part of the assembly. It is there only to absorb some of the shock when the gas engine starts and stops. I did find a reference to a 2010 Nissan Hybrid transaxle which has detailed drawings. They have the same clutch type shock absorber as well. Prius is the father of most all these trannys. Wish someone would put out a good drawing of the Fusion / C-Max transaxle. Mine still has what I think is excessive noise when the ICE starts pulling or slacks off pulling. Could be related to that "clutch/torque buffer" if it has a broken spring or other loose part. Dealers say it is not an excessive noise. Not the ping pong noise as it makes no noise in EV mode. I haven't had the ping pong noise in the hubs even though my VIN shows that TSB. Haven't smelled any gasoline odor in the garage either so not too worried about the fuel TSB. Would like to get better fuel mileage so will get the new mapping sometime. 1 hybridbear reacted to this Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
