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Difficulty: MediumDriveshafts and Differentials

When a rear-wheel-drive vehicle travels over bumps, vertical suspension travel constantly alters the distance between the transmission output shaft and the rear axle assembly. Which component allows the driveshaft to expand and contract in length to prevent driveline binding?

  1. A
    Universal joint
  2. Slip yokeAnswer
  3. C
    Differential spider gear
  4. D
    Hypoid ring and pinion

Answer

The slip yoke allows the driveshaft assembly to slide axially over the output shaft, compensating for distance variations caused by rear suspension motion.
The slip yoke features internal splines that mate with the external splines of the transmission output shaft. As the rear axle travels up and down over road unevenness, the slip yoke slides axially into and out of the transmission tailhousing, allowing the overall driveshaft assembly to lengthen and shorten freely without binding or damaging driveline bearings.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the mechanical problem described in the driveline scenario.
Vertical motion of the rear axle swings through an arc controlled by suspension links, constantly changing the linear distance between the transmission and the differential.
Because the transmission is fixed to the chassis and the axle housing moves independently, a rigid one-piece shaft would bind or damage internal bearings without length flexibility.
2
Evaluate the functional role of each driveline component.
A splined slip yoke slides back and forth on the transmission output shaft to provide linear axial travel, while universal joints provide angular flexibility.
Identifying the distinct roles of angular deflection versus linear displacement isolates the correct component.

Key Concept

Driveshaft Slip Yoke Linear Compensation
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Driveshafts and Differentials

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