Tranmission Blueprinting

Suzuki Joe · #1 (**permalink**) 01-04-2007, 09:43 AM

Apologies if this has been asked and answered already, but I did a search and came up empty.

What is "Blueprinting" a transmission and why is it good/helpful?

Fordfan69 · #2 (**permalink**) 01-04-2007, 09:58 PM

The reasoning behind Blueprinting a transmission is the same whether it be a tranny, an engine, a rear end assy, etc.. When these units were assembled at the factories, they were assembled with certain range of tolerences for each part. This goes for the actual individual part as well as clearances of assembled parts within the unit. Many times, these tolerences of nominal dimensions and clearences are a decent sized range (due to the nature of mass producing items and time vs. money theory)

The art of blueprinting is simply (many times not simple) bringing all dimensions and clearences to the very middle of the tolerence range. All clearences are brought to spec either machining parts, using shims or any other common method that is appropriate for the item that we are reducing the deviation for.

When this is accomplished, wear characterstics go down, strength is many times increased and/or breakage occurances are dramatically reduced, and/or power output is very likely increased. All good things.

This can be a very time consuming procedure, but as stated, the results are well worth the time and effort.

I hope this helps you.
Greg.

spl310 · #3 (**permalink**) 01-04-2007, 09:58 PM

Blueprinting is setting the tolerances to their most favorable point. It is preferable as it will maximize on your goals - be it longevity or performance. I have not heard of anyone blueprinting a transmission, but it makes sense. Engines that are built for performance are typically said to have been blueprinted.

Excaliber · #4 (**permalink**) 01-04-2007, 10:24 PM

I blue printed my engine. Had to take it apart and put it back together MANY times during the process. It is very time consuming.

Suzuki Joe · #5 (**permalink**) 01-04-2007, 10:36 PM

Thanks for the explainations guys.

I absolutely get it.

Funny thing is my line of work: Statistical process control.

Oh yeah... I TOTALLY get it.

Thanks again!

Joe

maverick · #6 (**permalink**) 01-05-2007, 06:06 AM

I was a blueprinter as a kid, tore apart my new toys to check them out prior to use.

Optimal performance............err, well, sometimes not.

But seriously,

Blueprinting can improve the longevity of a mechanical system, also enhance the efficiency and performance of the unit.