In simple terms, an axle is a cylindrical part that is inserted into the hub of a car and bears the weight of the car body. It can also refer to a car.
Axles are divided into integral and disconnected types according to different suspension structures. An integral axle is like a huge barbell, supporting the car body through suspension at both ends. It is often used with a non-independent suspension. A disconnected axle is used with a movable joint structure and an independent suspension.
From the perspective of drive mode, axles are divided into four types: steering axle, drive axle, steering drive axle and support axle. The steering axle can use the swing of the steering knuckle to deflect the wheel to achieve car steering and withstand vertical loads, road resistance, etc. The drive axle transmits the driving force transmitted by the engine to the drive wheel to achieve speed reduction and torque increase, and can also change the direction of power transmission. It is composed of a main reducer, differential, half shaft, and axle housing. The steering drive axle has two functions, steering and driving, and has a special structure and is widely used in all-wheel drive off-road vehicles. The support axle belongs to the driven axle, such as the rear axle of a three-axle car with a single axle drive and the rear axle of a front-wheel drive car.
Daily maintenance of axles is very important. Before operation, check whether the external connection bolts are loose, whether there is oil leakage, and whether there is abnormal noise. Mandatory maintenance is also required, generally after the vehicle has traveled 3000-5000km, including changing the lubricating oil, checking the gear oil, adjusting the front axle toe, and adjusting the brake clearance. Regular maintenance is performed every 10,000km after the first maintenance, including changing the lubricating oil, checking the toe, and checking the wear of the brake friction pads.
