Glossary “axle windup” Definition:
Term often used for axle tramp.

Glossary “axle shaft” Definition:
Alloy steel shaft that transfers torque from the differential side gears to the drive wheels. This shaft also supports vehicle weight on most passenger cars.

Glossary “axle shaft end thrust” Definition:
Force that is exerted on the end of an axle shaft that is most pronounced when the vehicle turns corners and curves.

Glossary “axle shaft tubes” Definition:
Tubes attached to the axle housing center section to surround the axle shaft and bearing. Rear suspension springs generally attach to the axle tubes to support the vehicles weight.

Glossary “axle tramp” Definition:
The tendency of a live axle housing to rotate with the wheels slightly and then snap back during hard acceleration. This action may be repeated several times, creating a loss of traction until the driver releases the accelerator.

Glossary “axle carrier assembly” Definition:
A cast-iron framework that can be removed from the rear-axle housing for service and adjustment.

Glossary “axle flange” Definition:
The outside end of the axle where the wheel, drum or rotor attaches with wheel studs or nuts.

Glossary “axle gears” Definition:
Bevel gears that transfer power from the differential pinion gears to the splined axle shafts.

Glossary “axle hop” Definition:
The tendency of a live axle housing to rotate with the wheels slightly and then snap back during hard acceleration. This action may be repeated several times, creating a loss of traction until the driver releases the accelerator.

Glossary “axle housing” Definition:
Designed in the removable carrier or integral carrier types to house the drive pinion, ring gear, differential, and axle shaft assemblies.

Glossary “axle ratio” Definition:
The ratio between the rotational speed (rpm) of the drive shaft and that of the driven wheel; gear reduction through the differential, determined by dividing the number of teeth on the ring gear by the number of teeth on the drive pinion.

Glossary “axle seat” Definition:
Suspension component used to support and locate spring on the axle. Also known as a spring chair.

Glossary “axle bearing” Definition:
A bearing that supports an axle or half shaft in an axle housing.

Glossary “axle boot” Definition:
The flexible cover that retains grease and/or oil in a transmission or a constant velocity joint.