Mercedes-Benz ML320. Manual — part 186

2001 Mercedes-Benz ML320

1998-03 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS Complete Transmissions - ML 320 - 722.662

me

Fig. 120: Planetary Gear Set, Function (1 Of 5)
Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ OF NORTH AMERICA.

Operation

The ring gear (1) and sun gear (3) elements of a planetary gear system are alternately driven and braked by the
actuating elements of the multi-plate clutch and multiple-disc brake. The planet gears (2) can turn on the
internal gearing of the ring gear (1) and on the external gearing of the sun gear (3). This allows for a variety of
gear ratios and the reversal of the rotation direction without the need for moving gear wheels or shift collars.

The torque and speed are converted corresponding to the lever ratios or the ratio of the number of teeth on the
driven to the driving gears and is known as the gear ratio i. The overall ratio of a number of planetary gear sets
connected in series is obtained by multiplying the partial ratios. When two components of the planetary gear set
are locked together, the planetary gear set is locked and turns as a closed unit.

Advantages Of A Planetary Gear Set:



Shifting ability under load.



Several ratios can be produced.



Constant meshing of the gears.



Simple direction reversal.



High efficiency.



Coaxial location of input and output.



Compact design.

The Following Basic Ratio Possibilities Can Be Realized

1.



Sun gear locked.



Ring gear driving.



Planet gears driven.



Relatively low step-down ratio.

2001 Mercedes-Benz ML320

1998-03 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS Complete Transmissions - ML 320 - 722.662

me

Fig. 121: Planetary Gear Set, Function (2 Of 5)
Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ OF NORTH AMERICA.

2001 Mercedes-Benz ML320

1998-03 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS Complete Transmissions - ML 320 - 722.662

me

2.



Hollow gear locked.



Sun gear driving.



Planet gears driven.



Relatively high step-down ratio.

2001 Mercedes-Benz ML320

1998-03 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS Complete Transmissions - ML 320 - 722.662

me