Objectives • Describe the operation of universal joints • Explain how a differential works • Understand the differences between types of limited slip differentials • Describe the different types of rear axles and bearings • Select the correct gear oil for different applications
Slip Yoke • Attached to universal joint on front end of drive shaft – Other end fits over splines on output shaft • Slides in and out of transmission – As distance between transmission and differential changes • Automatic transmission – Sometimes a seal goes over the output shaft • Keeps ATF from leaking out of slip yoke through its vent hole
Constant Velocity Joints • Vibration caused by drive shaft speed – Canceled by putting two Cardan U-joints next to each other • U-joints: connected by centering socket and yoke – Phased to cancel each other’s angle – Speed change never leaves the joint • CV joints: used on larger luxury vehicles and pickup trucks • Ball and trunnion: used on FWD vehicles
Differential and Differential Construction • Differential transfers power to wheels – Increases torque with final drive gear reduction • Differential construction – Parts are housed in axle housing – Pinion gear is splined to flange • Crush sleeve functions – Keeps bearing separate from races – Maintains preload on bearings – Keeps front bearing race from spinning
Differential Housing • Differential housing holds drive pinion and case – Banjo housing has removable pumpkin – Salisbury axle (integral): third member not removable • Top of housing has vent and breather tube – Breather tube usually runs into fender well – Vent may have one-way check valve
Differential Operation • Each axle has splines – Mesh with side gear splines • Differential pinions mesh with side gears – Mounted on pinion shaft • Spider gears – Side gears and differential pinions • Power flow – During corner: side gears rotate against differential pinions
Differential Gears • Hypoid gearset – Pinion gear: lower than the centerline of ring gear – Teeth of hypoid gear: curved in spiral shape – Each tooth has concave and convex side • Convex side is the drive side • Concave side is the coast side
Types of Limited Slip Differentials • Several designs – Most popular has clutch packs • Torque applied to clutch pack: side gear locks – Older units: four pinion gears and two pinion shafts – Cone-type: cones forced against case by springs – Viscous coupling: sealed unit contains silicone fluid – Detroit Locker differential: has a ratcheting pair of clutch packs that force it to lock up