16 Differential Components and Their Functions for Cars
Talking about car performance when driving long distances, it cannot be separated from the role of the differential component. When hearing the name of this component, some people may feel unfamiliar. However, this component has another name known by automotive enthusiasts, which is the axle component. Here is a more detailed review:
What is the Differential Component?
The Differential component, also known as the axle component, is located at the rear of the car, precisely between the two rear wheels of the vehicle.
This component has the main function of transmitting the rotational power generated by the engine to the wheels to move the car. Thus, the car can move forward and backward, and the wheels can turn left and right.
16 Car Differential Components and Their Functions
What are the differential axle components? There are 16 components present. This car axle component has several main components, and each component has its own function. Here are the functions of each differential component:
1. Drive pinion shaft
The drive pinion shaft functions as a rotating shaft to connect the propeller shaft and the rotation (differential gear). You can find this component in the drive pinion gear that is integrated with the pinion gear shaft.
2. Drive pinion gear
This component is smaller than the side gear and has a nearly identical shape. You can find this component in the differential, specifically on the side gear. The function of this component is to regulate the rotation of both side gears.
3. Spider gear
This component functions to differentiate the rotation of the gears. This component is usually located on the side gear at a ninety-degree angle.
4. Spider gear shaft
This component facilitates the movement of the spider gear.
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5. Ring gear
This component has a large ring shape and functions to receive rotation from the pinion gear.
6. Differential case
This component serves as the housing for various car axle components.
7. Side gear
This component functions as the receiver of rotation from the spider gear and transmits it to the axle shaft.
8. Axle Shaft Bearing
This component serves as the base or bearing for the side gear that rotates to the axle shaft housing.
9. Bearing Cap
This component functions as a binder for the differential case.
10. Adjuster Nut
This component functions to adjust the meeting point of the drive pinion with the backlash (ring gear). This component has a shape resembling a nut.
11. Oil Seal
This component is located at the end of the axle and functions to prevent oil from leaking out of the axle.
12. Differential oil tube
This component serves as a place to fill the axle oil.
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13. Universal Joint Flange
This component functions as a damper when there is a change in the angle of the propeller shaft during rotation. Thus, when power transfer occurs, the process is very smooth.
14. Axle Shaft Housing
This component serves as a cover for the wheel axle and axle system.
15. Axle Shaft Housing Cap
This component facilitates the exit of axle oil during the process of replacing the old axle oil with new oil.
16. Gasket
This component has a crucial function, which is to prevent leakage from every joint when pressure occurs. Thus, the risk of axle oil leakage can be avoided.
These are the 16 main components of the car axle that you need to know. To keep the condition of the car's differential components in optimal condition, it is advisable to perform regular and periodic servicing. You can visit the nearest Daihatsu dealer to get assistance from expert technicians. Hopefully, the above review is helpful.