(53282 products available)
Ready to Ship
Ready to Ship
A car rear axle is situated at the car's back. It helps to support the weight of the vehicle and transmit power from the driveshaft to the wheels. Without the rear axle, the wheels cannot turn. Moreover, it also holds the wheel hub and brake assembly. The rear axle comes in different types, including the following:
Live Rear Axle
The car's rear wheels turn with the shafts that run to the rear differential in a traditional rear-wheel drive layout. This setup is known as a ""live axle."" The axle shafts spin ""live,"" meaning they turn with the wheels and drive the car forward. Most rear-wheel drive cars have a leaf spring setup. However, some live axle rear-wheel drive cars use coil springs. The live rear axle is a common choice for cheap cars because it helps to cut costs and reduce the car's weight. The simple construction of the live rear axle makes it cheap to manufacture and easy to maintain. The live axle also provides good road-holding ability. As the wheels on the same axle are fixed together, the car can keep going in a straight line on a dry road. The traction is better on firm roads. The leaf spring live rear axle is mostly used on utility vehicles, trucks, and cheap cars. Coil spring live rear axles are mostly used on sports cars and performance vehicles.
Dead Rear Axle
The dead rear axle, unlike the live rear axle, does not power the vehicle's rear wheels. It merely supports the back wheels. The dead rear axle is also called a ""non-driven axle."" The dead rear axle is usually found on front-wheel drive layouts where the front wheels do the driving. The dead rear axle is commonly used for independent rear suspension setups. The individual suspensions provide better ride quality and handling. Sports cars and high-end luxury cars use independent rear suspension to improve their performance and driving experience.
Single Rear Wheel Axles
Single rear wheel axles come with one wheel on each side at the back of the vehicle. Most cars, especially sedans and sports cars, have single rear wheel axles. The single rear wheel axle helps to improve the car's aerodynamics and reduce its weight.
Dual Rear Wheel Axles
Dual rear wheel axles have two wheels on each side at the back of the vehicle. This rear axle setup is commonly found on heavy-duty trucks and commercial vehicles. Dual rear wheel axles provide more traction and stability on the road. The dual rear wheel axle also increases the load-carrying capacity of the vehicle. Some utility vehicles come with removable dual rear wheel axles.
Some standard specifications for car rear axles are as follows.
Load rating
The axle must support the vehicle's weight and any additional loads. The load rating indicates the maximum weight the axle can handle without damage.
Gear ratio
The gear ratio affects acceleration, top speed, and fuel efficiency. A higher ratio provides more torque for off-road or hauling loads, while a lower ratio offers better fuel efficiency and higher speeds.
Axle diameter and strength
Thicker, stronger axles are more durable but add weight. The diameter is chosen based on the required balance of strength and weight for each vehicle's design.
Bearing size
The bearings support the axle and must be correctly sized to reduce friction and handle the loads placed on them. Larger bearings last longer but also add weight.
Material
Common materials for rear axles include steel and aluminum. Steel is strong and durable but heavy. Aluminum is lighter but does not support as much weight.
Brake compatibility
The axle must work with the vehicle's braking system. Proper sizing and mounting points are needed to attach brake components securely.
Differential type and compatibility
The rear axle must be compatible with the vehicle's differential. This includes ensuring proper sizing, gear matching, and mounting point alignment.
Maintaining a proper car rear axle is vital for vehicle safety and performance. Check these maintenance tips.
Regular inspections
Inspect the axle and surrounding components for signs of damage, wear, or leakage. Pay attention to the housing, bearings, and seals. Early detection of issues can prevent more extensive repairs and potential safety hazards.
Keep it lubricated
Use high-quality lubricants in the differential to reduce friction and wear on gears. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for type and interval of lubricant changes. Proper lubrication is essential for the smooth operation of the rear axle components.
Monitor tire wear
Uneven tire wear can strain the rear axle and other drivetrain parts. Check all tires regularly for equal wear patterns. If noticed, have the tires rotated or replaced as required to maintain proper vehicle handling and axle health.
Avoid overloading
The axle has a maximum load rating. Carrying excess cargo or towing more than the rated capacity strains the rear axle and can cause premature failure. Know the vehicle's limits and adhere to them for optimal axle performance and longevity.
Protect from corrosion
Rear axles, especially in exposed areas, can corrode over time from moisture, road salt, and other environmental factors. Keep the axle and surrounding areas clean and use protective coatings or treatments to reduce corrosion risk.
Correctly install modifications
If modifying the rear axle (e.g., changing gear ratios, adding a limited-slip diff), have the work done by a qualified mechanic. Improperly installed mods can cause axle damage and affect vehicle stability. Follow all installation instructions and use quality parts for modified axles.
Choosing a proper rear axle for a car can be a tedious task. Here are some easy tips to guide people through the process:
Understand the Basic Function of Rear Axles
The rear axle is a crucial part of the car as it connects the two back wheels and supports the weight of the car. It also helps propel the car forward and keeps it stable. Knowing this will help people know which rear axle is suitable for which purpose.
Identify Driving Needs
Think about the driving habits and needs of the car. For example, if the car is for off-road purposes, a heavy-duty rear axle will be needed. But for a sports car, a lightweight and high rear axle ratio will be needed to match the front axle.
Consider the Vehicle Type
Different car types come with different rear axles. SUVs and trucks have a straight rear axle, while many sports cars and sedans use a trailing arm or independent rear axle system. When choosing a rear axle, consider the car type and make sure it fits.
Check the Specifications
When choosing a rear axle, check the specifications, such as the axle ratio, load capacity, and the type of differential it comes with. Make sure it is compatible with the car's specifications and requirements.
Think About Future Modifications
If there are plans to modify the car in the future, such as adding a lift kit for an off-road car or making the car run faster, then choose a rear axle that can handle those modifications. A suitable rear axle will save costs and time.
Get Professional Advice
If people need help choosing a proper rear axle for a car, they can take the car to a mechanic shop or a 4WD specialist shop. The mechanics there will help choose the proper rear axle for the car and the driving needs.
Replacing a rear axle is a challenging task that requires proper mechanical knowledge, experience, and specialized tools. Here are some steps to follow when replacing a rear axle:
Q1: What is the car rear axle?
A1: The rear axle is the shaft that connects the rear wheels and supports the vehicle's weight. It also bears the driving force and the braking force generated when the vehicle is running. The rear axle is an essential part of car power transmission.
Q2: What are the functions of the rear axle?
A2: The rear axle is a critical mechanical component of the car. It has the following functions: 1. It connects the two rear wheels, enabling them to rotate simultaneously, ensuring the vehicle's stability and traction on the road. 2. It bears the car's weight, which supports the vehicle's body. 3. It transmits power, and in the case of a rear-wheel-drive car, the rear axle receives power from the engine through a driveshaft and distributes it to the rear wheels, providing driving force. 4. It transmits braking force. The rear axle also transmits braking force to the rear wheels when the driver steps on the brake pedal, providing stopping power and ensuring the vehicle's safety.
Q3: Can a car run if the rear axle is broken?
A3: No, the vehicle cannot run if the rear axle is broken. The rear axle is a vital part of the car, connecting the two rear wheels, enabling their simultaneous rotation, and ensuring vehicle stability and traction. If the rear axle is broken, it may cause the rear wheels to lose synchronization, affecting the car's drivability and safety. In addition, an broken rear axle may damage other components, such as the rear suspension and the powertrain. Therefore, addressing rear axle problems as soon as possible is essential to ensure vehicle safety and performance.
Q4: Can the rear axle be repaired?
A4: Yes, the rear axle is repairable. However, the repairability depends on the damage's extent and nature. If the rear axle's damage is minor, such as a few worn or damaged parts, it is possible to repair and replace the relevant parts. However, if the rear axle is severely damaged or deformed, replacing the entire rear axle may be necessary.
Q5: How to maintain the rear axle?
A5: Regular maintenance of the rear axle is critical to ensure its performance and durability. Here are some maintenance tips: 1. Regularly check the rear axle for signs of wear, damage, or leakage. 2. Keep the rear axle clean and free of mud, dust, and water. 3. Regularly lubricate the rear axle joints to reduce friction and wear. 4. Ensure the rear axle's alignment and level are correct to prevent uneven wear and damage.
浙公网安备 33010002000092号
浙B2-20120091-4