Top Things to Know About Rear Axles

Axle shafts need to be sturdy and strong on all vehicles. They need to be strong enough to handle the twisting force that is necessary to keep the vehicle moving under all situations. Here are some top things to know about rear axles and where they are located.

• There are full-floating axle shafts that are located on one end to fit the splines on the side gear. The other end usually has a flange that is bolted to the wheel hub; it slides into the shaft first and is bolted down to the hub.




• There are also semi-floating axles which are mounted a lot different. These are used to support the weight of the vehicle as well.




• The housing area of the axle is a steel casting location that can vary in size depending up the type of vehicle. The area mounts the axle shafts, wheels, and final drive.




• You will usually find the seats or flat surfaces on the top of the housing for springs. Vehicles with more than one rear axle, the torque rods are also connected on the top and bottom. There are also leaf springs help keep the axles in place.