The Swedish manufacturer does not tend to distinguish robotic transmissions separately, which are also installed in trucks, and refers to them as “manual transmissions with automatic shifting.” The term “robotic” is not used officially, but this series includes I-Shift gearboxes with the AT index.

Interestingly, even a true “automatic” transmission in Volvo trucks is called not “automatic” but a “hydraulic” transmission. This series carries the PT index.

Regardless of the type of gearbox installed in the truck, the clutch—as with other wear parts—will eventually need to be replaced. The lifespan of the clutch depends both on the operating conditions of the vehicle and the driver’s driving style.

To replace the clutch, the gearbox must first be removed. In cabover trucks or models equipped with a platform, the gearbox must be lowered downwards. In tractor units, it can be lifted out from above. However, to do this, air fittings and electrical wiring must first be disconnected. Next comes the driveshaft. Then the control cable (if the gearbox is manual) and the air filter with its ducts are disconnected. Once completed, the gearbox is ready to be removed.

Once the gearbox is removed, the clutch disc becomes accessible. If the clutch was not operating properly, the disc is likely worn. The new disc thickness is 10.6 mm. The allowable wear is 1.8 mm. It is advisable to replace the release bearing, pressure plate, and pilot bearing along with the clutch disc, and also inspect the flywheel. If the flywheel shows signs of overheating (metal has a blue tint) or has an uneven surface, it should be replaced.

After that, it is recommended to clean the gearbox mounting area and prepare to install new parts. These can be either original or aftermarket components, but it is worth noting that cheaper parts tend to have a shorter lifespan. Genuine Volvo clutches typically last around 600,000–700,000 km in automatic transmissions and from 600,000 up to 1 million km in manual ones, depending on driving style.

When assembling the system, don’t forget that the disc has a special marking indicating which side should face the gearbox. Then everything is reassembled in reverse order. After assembly, gearbox calibration must be performed—otherwise… But we will cover that in the next article. Stay tuned.