Third Gear

Fig 1: Identifying Power Flow Schematic - Third Gear

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Third Gear  - Drive torque is applied to the torque converter impeller and transferred to the turbine. The turbine shaft rotates clockwise (CW). The "A" clutch and the "B" clutch are locked, this causes the rear input ring gear to be locked to the sun gear in the Simpson Gear set. The Simpson gear set is locked in a 1:1 ratio. The "E" clutch is locked which locks the ring gear to the sun gear in the Simpson gear set. The entire transmission planetary system is now locked in a 1:1 ratio.

Freewheel "H" is overrun and freewheel "J" is not used. Freewheel "K" continues to be locked.

Fig 2: Gear Position Chart - Third Gear

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.