Automobile - Front axle beam and Stub axle

A beam axle is a rigid beam which connects a nearside wheel and an offside wheel. This kind of hub is used mainly on larger vehicles, where a beam axle is fitted instead of independent suspension. This axle is also often found on trailers and in both the front and rear of four-wheel drive trucks.

Front axle and Stub axle

What is Front axle?

• A front axle is a rotating shaft at the front of a vehicle that turns the front wheels.
• Vehicle design can be quite variable, and axles come in a range of formats and designs to meet different needs.
• Replacement of a front axle may be necessary in the wake of a serious accident or other damage, like heavy rusting. 

Functions of Front Axle:

1. It supports the weight of front part of the vehicle.
2. It facilitates steering
3. It absorbs shocks which are transmitted due to road surface irregularities.
4. It absorbs torque applied on it due to braking of vehicle.

Types of Front Axle:

1. Dead front axle

             - Dead axles are those axles, which do not rotate.

             - These axles have sufficient rigidity and strength to take the weight.

             - The ends of front axle are suitably designed to accommodate stub axles.

             - In which there is no connection with the engine and having no differential mechanism.

             - The front dead axles are four types : (i) Elliot axle, (ii) Reverse type, (iii) Lemoine,                              (iv) Reversed lamoine type.  

     2. Line Front axle

           - Line axles are used to transmit power from gear box to front wheels.

           -  Line front axles although, front wheels. This axles although resemble rear axles but they are               different at the ends where wheels are mounted. Maruti-800 has line front axle.

What is Stub Axle?

• Stub axles are connected to the front axle by king pins. Front wheels are mounted on stub axles arrangement for steering is connected to stub axles.
• Stub axle turns on kind pins. King pins is fitted in the front axle beam eye and is located and locked there by a taper cotter pin

Types of Stub Axle:

1. Elliot
2. Reversed elliot
3. Lamoine
4. Reversed lamoine

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