What Is a Driveline on a Semi Truck?

A driveline is an essential part of a semi truck, connecting the transmission to the wheels. It is comprised of a series of shafts and joints that transmit power from the engine to the drive axle.

The driveline helps the truck go forward, and also allows it to turn corners. Without it, a semi truck would not be able to move.

The driveline starts at the transmission, which sends power through a torque converter and then to a driveshaft. The driveshaft is usually made of steel tubing and connects to another set of shafts that transfer power from the transmission to the wheels.

These are known as half-shafts or axleshafts. They are connected to either side of the differential, which then transfers power to each wheel.

The driveline also includes several joints that allow for flexibility during turning maneuvers and when going over bumps in the road. These joints come in various sizes and shapes depending on their purpose, but all are designed with rubber gaskets or seals that minimize friction and ensure smooth operation.

Universal Joints: Universal joints allow for rotation in multiple directions while transferring torque from one component to another. They are used on both sides of the differential so that each wheel can rotate independently.

Constant Velocity Joints: Constant velocity joints are used in place of universal joints on some models of semi trucks. They allow for greater flexibility than universal joints while transferring torque more efficiently.

Drive Flanges: Drive flanges attach the half-shafts or axleshafts to each wheel hub assembly. The drive flange is made up of two parts: a hub flange which bolts onto the wheel hub assembly, and a yoke flange which bolts onto the half-shaft or axleshaft.

Conclusion:

A driveline is an important component in any semi truck as it transmits power from the engine to its wheels. It consists of several pieces including driveshafts, universal or constant velocity joints, and drive flanges that work together to provide efficient power delivery while allowing for necessary flexibility during maneuvering and when encountering bumps in the road.

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Karen Watkins