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The manual transmission provides a means of varying the relationship
between the speed of the engine and the speed of the wheels. Varying
these gear ratios allows the right amount of engine power at many
different speeds.
Manual transmissions require use of a clutch to apply and remove
engine torque to the transmission input shaft. The clutch allows this
to happen gradually that so that the car can be started from a
complete stop.
Modern manual transmissions do not disengage any of the forward drive
gears, they are simply connected to their shafts through the use of
"synchronizers". Reverse is achieved through reverse idler gears,
which are engaged to move the car backwards.
Some manual transmissions have an "overdrive." An overdrive is a
mechanical unit bolted to the rear of the transmission. It is usually
known as fifth gear. When you use it, it will reduce the engine speed
by about one-third, while maintaining the same road speed.
Chrysler came out with the first overdrive transmission in 1934.
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