The front propeller shaft consists of the following components:
• | Constant velocity joint |
The rear propeller shaft consists of the following components:
Front Propeller Shaft Operation
The front propeller shaft connects the transfer case to the front axle. It transmits
the rotating force from the transfer case to the front axle when the transfer case
is engaged.
Rear Propeller Shaft Operation
The rear propeller shaft connects the transmission or transfer case to the rear
axle. It transmits the rotating force from the transmission or transfer case to the
rear axle.
Propeller Shaft Phasing Description
The propeller shaft is designed and built with the yoke lugs or ears in line
with each other. This produces the smoothest running shaft possible. A propeller
shaft designed with built in yoke lugs in line is known as in - phase. An out of
phase propeller shaft often causes vibration. The propeller shaft generates vibration
from speeding up and slowing down each time the universal joint goes around.
The vibration is the same as a person snapping a rope and watching the wave reaction
flow to the end. An in phase propeller shaft is similar to 2 persons snapping
a rope at the same time and watching the waves meet and cancel each other out.
A total cancellation of vibration produces a smooth flow of power in the drive
line. All splined shaft slip yokes are keyed in order to ensure proper phasing.
Universal Joint Description
The universal joint is connected to the propeller shaft. The universal consist
of 4 caps with needle bearings and grease seals mounted on the trunnions of a
cross or spider. These bearings and caps are greased at the factory and no periodic
maintenance is required. The bearings and caps are pressed into the yokes and held
in place with snap rings, except for 2 bearings on some models witch are strapped
onto the pinion flange of the differential. Universal joints are designed to
handle the effects of various loads and rear axle windup conditions during acceleration
and braking. The universal joint operates efficiently and safely within the
designed angle variations. when the design angles are exceeded, the
operational life of the joint decreases.