Drive shafts, also known as propeller shafts, and they are very essential for the running of most vehicles as they transfer power from the engine, to the wheels. This is a very important sub assembly since it is responsible for the movement of the vehicle and its smooth running. It is due to this reason that knowing about the design and working of drive shaft, along with their proper care, can go a long way in appreciating them and keeping a vehicle in the best condition.
What is a drive shaft?
A drive shaft is a transmission process by which mechanical energy within the form of torque and rotation is conveyed from the engine to other parts and mainly the wheels. Mostly used in rear wheel drive, four wheel drive, and all wheel drive car types, the drive shafts are critical components of the vehicle’s drive train.
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Components of a Drive Shaft
Shaft: The major part of the drive shaft is consisted of steel, aluminum or carbon fiber; As far as the material selection is concerned, it must be light and strong enough to bear the torsional load.
Universal Joints (U-Joints): These are joints that flexible, enabling the drive shaft to transfer powers and torques even in a situation whereby the transmission shaft and the wheels are out of alignment.
Slip Yoke: This one enables the drive shaft to change the length when the suspension is in a certain position or movement in order not to bind or further get damaged.
Center Bearing: Located in longer drive shafts, its function is to bear the shaft and also minimize vibration.
How Drive Shafts Work
It is attached at one end to the transmission and at the other end to the differential of the vehicle. When the engine produces power, it goes through the transmission housing and then turns then passes the rotational force through the drive shaft. Finally, the universal joints fitted at each end of the drive shaft enable it to conform with the operation of the suspension while at the same time transmitting power to wheels.
Types of Drive Shafts
Single-Piece Drive Shafts: They are often used in Vehicle’s where there is little space between the transmission and the differential. They are much more elementary but can become susceptible to vibrating at higher speeds.
Two-Piece Drive Shafts: Appearing in longer vehicles, these one have a center support bearing and two joined shafts with a U-joint. Some of the advantages they include are better balance and less vibrations.
CV Drive Shafts: Constant Velocity (CV) drive shafts are mostly used in front-wheel drive as well as all wheel drive automobiles. They have CV joints that enable the power of wheels to be transmitted even when the wheels are not stationary.
Importance of Drive Shafts
Drive shafts are essential for the following reasons:
Power Transmission: They relay the power produced by the engine to the wheels in a bid to allow the particular vehicle to move.
Flexibility: Flexibility is by the use of the universal joints and the slip yoke for changes in the alignment of this suspension movement.
Durability: These components are normally made of strong materials and can therefore be able to handle a good amount of torque and rotational forces.
Common Drive Shaft Issues
Vibration: Owners of vehicles can be able to identify the early symptoms of drive shaft problems through some of the following factors; Vibration. This may be due to worn out u joint, the shaft is off balance or the center bearing has a problem.
Clunking Noise: A grinding noise when shifting gears or accelerating could also be as a result of a bad U- joints, or slip yoke.
Difficulty Turning: In case the drive shaft or some of its parts has worn out or has been corroded, it may lead to inefficiency in turning.
Squeaking Noise: A sound that resembles squeaking which becomes more frequent at higher speeds might be as a result of a worn out or dry U-joint that should be greased or replaced.
Maintenance Tips for Drive Shafts
Regular Inspection: It’s also good practice to conduct frequent checks on the drive shaft and its parts for any signs of wear and tear, rust or any issues at all.
Lubrication: Check that the U-joints are well greased so as to minimize the amount of wear and increase the available friction.
Balance Check: In case of vibrations, one should get the drive shaft balanced for better performance by a mechanic.
Replacement of Worn Parts: Worn or damaged U-joints, bearings and many others must be replaced as this will affect the functionality of the drive shaft.
A drive shaft is one of the crucial mechanisms of the power train system that makes sure that the power created by the engine gets to the wheels. How they work, the issues which may likely arise and how to maintain it are some of the ways which may help you to achieve a better performing drive shaft and not to mention a smooth drive. Regardless of the make and model of your car, whether it is rear-wheel-drive, four-wheel-drive or fancy all-wheel-drive car, drive shaft has not been retired from your car’s journey.
