Lesson 1.1: What is an IHT?

Break it down:

• Integrated: All key components (pump, motor, gears) are housed in a single, sealed unit.

• Hydrostatic: It uses pressurized fluid (hydraulic oil) to transmit power from the engine to the wheels. This allows for smooth, stepless speed changes.

• Transaxle: It combines the transmission (which controls speed) and the axle/differential (which turns the wheels) into one assembly.

Core Function: The IHT's main job is to take the high-speed, low-torque power from the engine and convert it into the low-speed, high-torque power needed to drive the wheels, with variable speed control.