Examkin

Question

Difficulty: MediumDriveshafts and Differentials

In a rear-wheel-drive vehicle with a solid rear axle, vertical movement of the rear axle during suspension travel alters the distance between the transmission and the rear axle housing. Which component is specifically designed to slide on splines to allow the driveshaft to change its effective length and prevent drivetrain binding?

  1. A
    Universal joint
  2. Slip yokeAnswer
  3. C
    Ring gear
  4. D
    Spider gear assembly

Answer

The slip yoke allows the driveshaft to change its operating length as the rear axle moves up and down.
The slip yoke features internal splines that slide forward and backward over the output shaft of the transmission. This sliding action allows the driveshaft to expand and contract in length as the rear axle moves through its suspension arc, preventing severe mechanical binding and drivetrain damage.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the mechanical challenge caused by rear suspension motion.
As the rear axle moves up and down over road irregularities, the linear distance between the fixed transmission output shaft and the pivoting rear axle changes continuously.
Suspension travel swings the axle through an arc rather than a straight vertical line.
2
Identify the specific component designed to compensate for variations in linear distance.
The slip yoke (or slip joint) utilizes splines that slide in and out of the transmission tailshaft housing.
This axial sliding motion prevents mechanical binding and protects transmission and differential bearings from severe thrust loads.

Key Concept

Driveshaft Slip Joint and Axial Length Compensation
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Rate this question

Topics

Driveshafts and Differentials

More questions from this topic