Figure 13-16.Slip joint and common type of universal Joint.
Figure 13-17.Gears used in final drives.
upward or downward movement of the axle, as the
springs flex, shortens or lengthens the distance
between the axle assembly and the transmission. This
changing distance is compensated for by a slip joint
placed at one end of the propeller shaft.
The usual type of slip joint consists of a splined stub
shaft, welded to the propeller shaft, that fits into a
splined sleeve in the universal joint. A slip joint and
universal joint are shown in figure 13-16.
Universal joints are double-hinged with the pins of
the hinges set at right angles. They are made in many
different designs, but they all work on the same
principle. (See chapter 11.)
FINAL DRIVES
A final drive is that part of the power train that
transmits the power delivered through the propeller
shaft to the drive wheels or sprockets. Because it is
encased in the rear axle housing, the final drive is
usually referred to as a part of the rear axle assembly.
It consists of two gears called the ring gear and pinion.
These may
13-14