Axle Shaft Assembly: Description and Operation

Wheel Drive Shafts Description and Operation




1 - Inner Joint Outer Race
2 - Inner Joint Cage
3 - Inner Joint Inner Race
4 - Ball Bearings
5 - Inner Joint Inner Race Retaining Snap Ring
6 - Inner Joint Outer Race Retaining Ring
7 - Inner Joint Large Seal Clamp
8 - Inner Joint Seal
9 - Inner Joint Small Seal Clamp
10 - Axle Shaft
11 - Outer Joint Small Seal Clamp
12 - Outer Joint Seal
13 - Outer Joint Large Seal Clamp
14 - Ball Bearings
15 - Outer Joint Inner Race
16 - Outer Joint Retaining Ring
17 - Outer Joint Cage
18 - Outer Joint Outer Race

Drive axles are flexible assemblies consisting of an inner and outer constant velocity (CV) joint connected by an axle shaft. The inner joint is completely flexible, and can move in and out. The outer joint is also flexible, but cannot move in and out. These drive axles are used to transmit rotational force from the rear axle differential to the rear tire and wheel assemblies.

Seal and Clamp

The drive axle assemblies use inboard and outboard joint seals made of thermoplastic material, and clamps made of stainless steel. The functions of the seals are as follows:

* The seals protect the internal parts of the inboard and outboard joints.

- They protect the joint lubricating grease from surrounding detrimental atmospheric conditions (such as extreme temperatures, ozone gas, etc.).
- They protect the joint lubricating grease from foreign materials (such as stones, dirt, water, salt, etc.).

* The seals facilitate angular and axial movement of the inboard joint.
* The seals facilitate angular movement of the outboard joint.

The function of the clamps is as follows:

Provide a leak proof connection at both the housing and the axle shaft for the inboard and outboard joints.

The thermoplastic material performs well against normal handing, operational wear and conditions. This material however, is not strong enough to withstand abusive handling or damage due to objects such as sharp tools or the sharp edge of any other surrounding component on the vehicle.

Inner Joint

The inner joints are of the enhanced double offset design. The inner joints use a female spline which is installed over a stub shaft protruding from the rear axle differential.

Outer Joint

The outer joints are of the Rzeppa joint design. The splined shaft end which mates with the knuckle and hub assembly, incorporates a helical spline to assure a tight, press-type fit. This design assures that no end play will exist between the hub bearing and the drive shaft assembly for added durability and reduced bearing noise.