Propeller shafts transfer the drive from the transfer case to the final drive units at the front and rear beam axle assemblies.
Each propeller shaft has a universal joint at both ends, to transmit the drive through a varying angle, and a sliding joint incorporated in the shaft between them, to accommodate changes in shaft length.
The front axle drive shafts are enclosed within the axle housing. They are splined at their inner end to the differential side gears, and to the front hubs at their outer end.
A constant velocity joint in each shaft allows for steering movement while continuing to transmit the drive.
The rear axle drive shafts are splined at their inner end to the differential side gears. A flange on the outside locates on studs on the rear hub to transfer the drive to the wheel.
The rear hub, which is a fully floating type, is mounted directly onto the outside of the axle housing and is independent of the axle shaft
Two tapered roller bearings support the hub on the housing and adjustment is provided to maintain end-float within specifications.
The mass of the vehicle, and all forces from forward motion and side thrusts, are transferred from the wheel directly to the axle housing, through the tapered roller bearings.
The axle shaft is relieved of all these forces and is used only to transmit torque.
