The cross of the steering shaft is one of the maincomponents of the drive shaft of each car. This mechanism performs the function of transmitting torque from the box to the drive axle (usually the rear one) at a constantly varying angle during rotation. Today we will look at how the steering shaft spider is made, what it is made of and how it works.
Material
Directly the body of the mechanism is made ofhigh strength alloy steel. In the production of the mechanism called the steering shaft crosspiece, a long heat treatment stage takes place, as a result of which the surface quality of the spikes is high. Bearing steel is used as the material for the outer rings. It is also used for the production of clip needles, which are also part of the cross.
Device, appointment, principle of work
The very cross of the steering shaft ("Toyota Prado" inincluding) is a kind of X-shaped hinge, ensuring the alignment of all elements that rotate during the transmission of torque. The hinge of the driveshaft has two forks, which are connected with a crosspiece. The ends of these devices are connected to four spikes, and the forks themselves are attached to the “cardan” pipe. Thus, the steering shaft crosspiece (including the VAZ-2113) is driven by needle bearings, put on 4 studs (ends) of the whole mechanism.
It is also worth noting that each of the two forksthere are special holes. Needle bearings are installed in them. The reliability of fixation and protection against displacement of these device provides a retaining ring. Its thickness depends on the allowable axial clearance. By the way, some car enthusiasts change the regular retaining rings to small device sizes in order to reduce play and vibrations.
The purpose of the cross is to providea movable joint that can change its angle in case of a rough road, thanks to which the driveshaft ensures the transmission of torque to the drive axles. It should be noted that the cross of the steering shaft can also extinguish the resulting shocks and vibrations during a run of a car on unevenness. Thus, this small detail extends the life of the entire shaft, taking all the load and shocks at the joint.
Dimension
Not all cars are equipped with the sameby the size of the crosspiece. Each model is equipped with its own device, so when buying, you should not focus on the choice of device for a different model of car. Here, for example, the Gazelle and the Volga, despite the fact that they have a common engine and even a device as a whole, are equipped with completely different cross-pieces.
Life time
The cross of the steering shaft is very simpledesign, due to which so steadily withstands shocks and can be as durable as possible. On average, this device fails on the 500-thousandth run, so it is considered one of the most durable and durable parts in the entire design of the car. The only thing that the mechanism needs is periodic lubrication. If you regularly monitor the state of the cross, it will serve even longer than the above period.
