Which Axle Drives on a Semi Truck?

Semi trucks are very powerful vehicles, and they require strong axles to help them traverse the roads. The rear axles are especially important, as they are responsible for actually propelling the truck forward. To understand how a semi truck moves, it is important to know which axle drives on a semi truck.

The drive axle is the axle that receives power from the engine and transmits it to the wheels. It is typically situated at the rear of the truck, in order to maximize traction and power delivery.

Most semi trucks have two drive axles, which are connected by a power divider. This allows for a more even distribution of power between both axles.

Single-Drive Axle

A single-drive axle is generally used on smaller semi trucks with lighter loads. This type of axle has only one wheel hub that is connected directly to the transmission output shaft. This allows for better fuel economy and improved handling due to its reduced weight.

Tandem-Drive Axle

Tandem-drive axles are commonly found on larger semi trucks that carry heavier loads. This type of axle consists of two wheel hubs that are connected by a differential gear set. Tandem-drive axles provide more traction and better load balancing than single-drive axles.

Conclusion:

Overall, it is important to know which axle drives on a semi truck in order to understand how the vehicle moves and performs on the road. The two main types of drive axles used on semi trucks are single-drive axles and tandem-drive axles, with each providing its own unique benefits depending on the size of the truck and its associated load.

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James Gardner