The objective of the drive shaft, also known as the propeller shaft or prop shaft, is to convey torque from the gearbox to the differential, which then transmits this torque to the wheels in order to move the vehicle. The drive shaft is a part of the drive train in a vehicle. [2] Since various parts of the vehicle must be located in various places, the drive shaft is largely utilized to deliver torque between components that are far apart. Since the transmission and rear axle are located on opposing sides of the vehicle, a long drive shaft is required to connect them.
In cars with varied arrangements for front-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, and the previously mentioned front-engine rear-wheel drive, drive shafts are used in diverse ways. Drive shafts are also used by motorbikes, locomotives, and marine craft. The drive shaft arrangement for a typical front-engine, rear-wheel-drive car is shown below (some cars have the transmission at the back).
Due to the distance between the rear axle and the transmission in a rear-wheel drive car (Figure 2), the drive shaft is substantially longer than in other systems.
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In This Article...
Why would a propeller shaft be used?
The propeller shaft’s job is to transfer torque between the driving axles, the transfer case, and the transmission. Two rotational axes that are not exactly in the same plane can be connected by the propeller shaft. The propeller shaft must be able to balance out this relative movement because the transmission and axles move relative to one another during the suspension process.
Prop shaft: What does that mean?
a shaft with a screw propeller at its end that transfers power from the engine to the propeller in definition 1
Drive shaft: A shaft that transfers energy from an automobile’s transmission to its back axle.
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What distinguishes the drive shaft from the propeller shaft?
Whether a prop shaft or drive shaft connects the engine to the rear wheels of a RWD car is a matter of debate at Automobile Layout. These two sentences in this article (my underlining) appear to represent the basis for the difference in opinion:
The word “drive shaft” in British English only refers to a transverse shaft that distributes power to the wheels, particularly the front wheels. A propeller shaft, often known as a prop-shaft, is a drive shaft that connects a gearbox to a rear differential.
I need few things to be explained:
- Does “In British English” apply to the first statement alone or to both?
- Can a prop shaft be used to connect a front engine to a rear transaxle? (ie is the term prop shaft strictly tied to gearboxes at the engine end). Thanks. Stepho 07:04, April 24, 2012 (UTC) Reply[reply]
The longitudinal shaft is referred to as the propeller shaft rather than the drive shaft in British English usage. This holds true for vehicles with RWD, rear transaxles, or even 4WD. There may be two propeller shafts connecting a transfer box to each axle in some 4WD situations. 24 April 2012, 8:30 a.m. Andy Dingley (talk) (UTC) Reply[reply]
How much does it cost to replace a drive shaft?
Drive Shaft Repair costs typically vary depending on what caused the problem and how quickly it can be fixed. The cost to simply replace it would range from $500 to $1000. However, you can also anticipate that the parts will cost around half as much and the labor will cost about $200. Therefore, even for a straightforward repair, you could end up spending between $150 and $1700. That might not seem like much, but if you want to cut costs like this, it could be a problem.
The costs will vary whether you are only fixing half of a shaft or half of a section. Depending on where you live, this might run you $350-$850. Once more, the price of parts is comparable across all repairs. Labor makes up the majority of the remaining cost, with prices ranging from $150 to $250 depending on the service center, the state, and local taxes.
Costs will rise for automobiles with 4-wheel drives or rear-wheel drive. The typical cost of this type of repair on this kind of car will be between $700 and $1800.
Where is the shaft of the propeller located?
- the propeller shaft,
- final shaft
- middle shaft(s), and
The main shaft that emerges from the engine is the thrust shaft. In high-speed engines, it directly receives the crankshaft’s rotational motion and rotates at its fastest rate.
The thrust shaft is additionally coupled to other parts that are located further aft in high rpm engines.
The intermediate shaft is the following element. The number of intermediary shafts a ship may have is not specifically limited. Beyond 2 shafts, it might be challenging to service and maintain, nevertheless. The significant catenary force that is applied on the entire propeller shaft is the cause of this. Due to their weight, this force has a tendency to damage and distort parts.
The propeller shafts may sustain long-term damage if the strong vibrational shocks acting on them are combined. Therefore, it is desirable to have less intermediate shafts. The only justification for having several intermediary shafts is if the engines and propellers are situated at different locations.
The tail shaft is the final component. It is primarily enclosed in the stern tube and is directly connected to the propellers. A gearbox that controls torque transfer connects the intermediate shaft and tail shaft. The tail shaft is designed to withstand a range of stresses that might be applied to the ship’s stern.
The linked bearing, which joins two nearby shafts, is the following element. By virtue of joints that are typically rigid and do not flex, the connection is accomplished. Using strong fasteners that can bear a lot of vibrational loads, the coupling units are bolted to one another.
Shaft bearings are parts that help the shafts support and carry their weight. They ensure smooth spinning by extending the length of the shaft. Depending on where they located, these bearings have varying constructions.
The thrust blocks are the final component of the marine propeller shaft system. At regular intervals, these blocks provide support for the propeller shafts. These blocks act as a conduit for transferring extra power from the shafts into the ship’s hull.
Some vibration happens as a result of the shafts’ extremely fast rotational rates. This further results in jarring shocks that can jeopardize the vessel’s structural integrity. As a result, the shocks can be distributed along the ship’s hull utilizing specialized bearings.
A strengthened structure is constructed to fasten these thrust blocks to the ship’s hull. The majority of the shock is dispersed into the hull girders and structures by a primary thrust block that is positioned aft of the engine crankshaft.
The majority of the parts that make up the propeller shafts are made up of the previously mentioned elements. Additionally, there are several minor components, such as bearings and sealants, that have various purposes.
What occurs if my drive shaft snaps while I’m on the road?
The following would happen if your driveshaft broke while you were driving: instantaneous loss of steering. a lack of forward or reverse movement being unable to accelerate
Single piece type propeller shaft:
This kind has a tubular shaft, two universal joints, and one slip spline joint. It is employed for transmission across small distances.
as well as being frequently used for front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. It gives the arrangement more strength. Because of the friction welding at the connections, it is more durable than a two-piece propeller shaft.
Two-piece type propeller shaft:
In the two-piece type arrangement, there are three universal joints, one slip joint, and two tubular shafts. Long-distance transmission uses it. like trucks and buses.
Because there are more joints, the strength factor is lower. Due to the lack of friction welding, it is less durable. Less torque is transmitted than if a single piece were used.
How can I tell whether my drive shaft has to be replaced?
Controlling your vehicle can be challenging if your driveshaft is damaged or deteriorating. Find out what symptoms and indicators to watch out for in the following paragraphs. A visit to your mechanic is necessary if your vehicle displays any of these symptoms because they are equipped to identify and resolve driveshaft issues.
Vibrations from under the vehicle
A malfunctioning driveshaft frequently causes the car to shake violently from the ground up. The driveshaft may shake due to worn u-joints, couplers, or carrier bearings. Failure to maintain these parts could cause additional harm to other drivetrain parts.
Difficulty turning
A u-joint problem may be the cause of your turning difficulties. It may be challenging to steer the car if the wheels are unable to turn properly due to a failed u-joint.
Squeaking noise
A u-joint that needs lubrication can make a low-speed squeaking noise that is more than just bothersome. As long as the u-joint does not exhibit evidence of extreme wear, a small amount of grease will silence the noise.
Would a prop shaft be useful?
Any vehicle’s wheels require power from the engine to turn and propulsion to move the vehicle. The part of a rear-wheel-drive vehicle that transfers this power from the engine to the rear wheels is known as the driveshaft, sometimes known as a propeller shaft or prop-shaft.
If you are operating a front-wheel drive car, the front wheels are powered by half shafts. However, a driveshaft is required in a four-wheel drive vehicle to transfer power to the front and rear wheels. This is why a four-wheel drive vehicle has two driveshafts. One for the front two wheels and the back two wheels, respectively.
While the majority of people probably won’t ever experience a poor driveshaft, it does happen. Continue reading to learn how a driveshaft works, what to look for if yours is having problems, and how much it would cost to replace it.
Is the transmission connected to the driving shaft?
Driveshaft
The initial part in delivering power to the differentials, axle shafts, and wheels is this shaft, which is attached to the transmission.
Which benefit of the propeller shaft is correct?
Because of its I low weight, (ii) high resistance to misalignment, especially sag, (iii) good torsional strength, and (iv) low resistance (low inertia) to changes in angular speed that occur when a hookes type coupling is used to drive the propeller, a tubular-section propeller shaft is typically used.