The heavy trucks are equipped with various components to facilitate their function. Bull gear is a component that is present in these vehicles. Semi-trucks are heavy-duty vehicles and require more powerful engines.
What is a Bull Gear on a Semi-Truck? Semi-trucks have one bull gear, which is the largest gear that helps the engine to run smoothly, and not all types of semi-trailers are equipped with it. A worn bull gear makes loud noises, and you should check the bearing and retainer regularly to maintain its performance. The overall cost to replace it varies from $1800 to $24000.
The engine is the heart of any vehicle. It contains various components that perform multiple functions. A functional engine is crucial for driving the vehicle safely.
What is the function of bull gear on a semi-truck?
Semi-trucks are heavy-duty vehicles with different types of gear to perform various functions. Almost all types of 18-wheelers have 10 speeds, each with a specific function. Bull gears are also known as output gears.
It works in coordination with the pinion gear to run the engine smoothly. It is called the driven gear because it is responsible for powering the gear-driven accessories of the engine.
It drives the water pump, generator, steering pump, and other engine accessories. It is a part of the transmission system, driven by crankshaft gears.
It is the largest and heaviest gear present in any truck.
How many bull gears does a semi truck have?
They are equipped with only one bull gear. It is the heaviest and largest part of the engine transmission.
Its location depends upon the type of vehicle. In some types of trucks, it is present on the front of the engine, while in others, it is present on the rear side.
It is also present under the cam above the crank and in between the engine and transmission. It is made from high-quality, durable materials like steel or cast iron.
It consists of two interlocking circles with toothed circumferences. The teeth rotate the circle to transfer the power from the engine to other accessories.
How does bull gear work in a semi-truck?
It is connected to the camshaft and crank gear that drives them. The crankshaft is responsible for rotating the toothed circles of the bull gear.
It rotates other components of the engine. It is usually powered by an engine motor present in the semi-truck.
It can withstand high pressure without wearing out. In this way, it can effectively transmit power from the diesel engine to all the components of the engine.
Can a semi-truck run smoothly without bull gear?
It provides many benefits to heavy trucks and enhances the vehicle’s overall performance. It can transmit power from the diesel source to other engine components without wearing out.
Only a few manufacturers install it in their engines to get all the benefits. But semi-trailers without bull gear also perform well.
Vehicles with Detroit 60 series and Cummins ISX diesel engines are equipped with it. Volvo D13 and Freightliner are also equipped with it. Semis having Detroit DD13, DD15, and DD16 do not have bull gear in their transmission.
How to tell if semi truck bull gear is worn out?
These gears are the most durable and large of all types of speeds in the semi-trucks. But they can also go bad after prolonged use. Like all other machines, this tool shows signs of wearing out and damage. Here is a brief description of all these signs and symptoms.
The most obvious sign is the noise or a peculiar sound from the gear. The noise indicates a fault in the bearing and retainer of the gear.
The bearing and retainer hold it in its respective place. Once the retainer is damaged or loose, the gear will get play and will not run around its center place. It will not be able to drive other engine accessories.
The presence of play can cause the tooth and metal shaving to wear out. Wearing in metal shaving can cause the metal particles to get inside the engine and other components of the vehicle.
How long does bull gear last in a semi-truck?
They are made from high-quality and durable materials. They do not wear out quickly. On average, a bull gear can last for up to 750000 miles in a heavy truck. However, high-quality steel parts can last even longer in these vehicles.
However, proper maintenance and care can prolong their life. You can make them last longer by following a few safety tips.
Use high-quality oil in the engine to protect it from daily wear and tear. Replace the oil with a fresh one after regular intervals to keep the gear functional. Keep an eye on the condition of the bearing and metal shaving to keep it functional.
Check the presence of play in it and use thick oil to reduce the strain between the gear tooth. Keep the tooth lubricated and check the oil level more often.
Drive the truck smoothly, and do not overload the trailer. Check for leaks and corrosion on the metal shaving and retainer of the gear.
Is it expensive to replace a bull gear in a semi-truck?
The steel used in the bull gear is a heavy-duty material that can last for years. You do not have to replace it frequently. But the overall cost to replace it in a semi-truck is high. The cost to replace it varies depending on the region.
The overall cost to replace it ranges from $2400 to $18000.The cost of bull gear ranges from $1100 to $1500.The mechanic cost to replace it is approximately $250 to $750.If you are replacing a single part, it can cost about $80 to $100.If you get services from a professional mechanic, the cost will be higher.
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