The axle and axle housing are very important parts of any car. Axle housing refers to the housing parts required for structural capabilities and carrying the axle’s driveline parts, bearings, and sealing. An axle is a shaft or rod that turns your vehicle’s wheels and supports its weight. Axles are vital components of any vehicle; they are three types: front, rear, and stub. Each of them needs housing. Here’s what you need to know about axle housing.
What Exactly Is an Axle Housing?
A car or truck’s axle assembly is a group of components that allows the wheels to revolve freely. A shaft known as an axle connects two wheels. It usually rests inside an axle housing. Bearings or bushings that allow it to revolve within the axle housing hold it in place. Because damage to the axle can cause the entire system to fail, the housing serves as a shield for the spinning axle. Because of the housing, axle lubrication is also possible.
The axle housing could also have other components that enable steering, driving, or load bearing. If the housing is primarily for load bearing, it is a dead axle because it doesn’t push the vehicle forward. For example, many front-wheel-drive vehicles have a rear dead axle to carry the load and maintain the left and right rear wheels on track. On the other hand, if the axle is part of a driving system, it is a drive axle.
Types of the axle housing
Axle housings are into two types: beam-style axles and independent-carrier-style axles. The key distinction is that the beam-axle housing includes axle tubes. Still, the independent carrier-style axle only includes the axle center portion, which contains the hybrid gears and differential.
- Independent Carrier Axles
To deliver torque to the wheel-end hubs, independent carrier axles (ICAs) use half shafts rather than axle shafts. As a result, ICAs do not respond to suspension loads. Typically, axle-carrier movement is independent of suspension movement. As a result, these axles are better for premium automobiles and ultra-high-performance vehicles like Ferraris.
- Beam Axles
Straight axle shafts are usually in beam axles and the whole axle housing shifts during suspension travel events. This beam axle also responds to suspension loads via shocks and springs using loads.
Axle housing is an essential part of a car. Axle housing protects the components within it from impact. It also permits lubricant within the gap, preventing axle components from prematurely breaking down. When purchasing an axle housing, ensure you consult with a professional mechanic.
