Clutches/Reverse Brake/Planetary Gear/Pulleys: Notes
The CVT uses the hydraulic-actuated clutches and reverse brake to engage and disengage the transmission pulleys. When hydraulic pressure is introduced into the clutch drum and the reverse brake piston cavity, the clutch piston and the reverse brake piston are moved. This presses the friction discs and the steel plates together, locking them so they do not slip. Power is then transmitted through the engaged clutch pack to its hub-mounted gear, and through the engaged ring gear to the planetary pinion gears. Likewise, when the hydraulic pressure is bled from the clutch pack and reverse brake piston cavity, the piston releases the friction discs and the steel plates, and they are free to slide past each other. This allows the gear to spin independently on its shaft, transmitting no power.