u-joint
Angled shaft link
A u-joint (universal joint) is a mechanical coupling that connects two shafts at an angle, allowing power transmission even when the shafts aren't aligned.
Most commonly found in vehicle drivetrains, u-joints let the driveshaft flex as the suspension moves: The clunking noise turned out to be a worn u-joint.
The crossed design permits rotation through varying angles.
Rotating rod transmitting torque
- yokeCrosspiece binding draft animals
- slipMinor error or misstep
- transfer caseGearbox distributing power to axles
- transmissionSending of information
differential · axle · propshaft · coupling · bearing · cap · cross · trunnion
Pivoted rotational support
- articulationClear vocal expression
- angularSharp-edged or rawboned
- misalignmentImproper positioning relative to reference
- constant velocityUnchanging speed and direction
phasing · degrees · flex · pivot · coupling · linkage · steering column · industrial
What takes another's place
binding · rust · seized · noise · backlash · inspection · maintenance · lubrication
driveshaft
Rotating rod transmitting torque
- yokeCrosspiece binding draft animals
- slipMinor error or misstep
- transfer caseGearbox distributing power to axles
transmission · differential · axle · propshaft · coupling · bearing · cap · cross · trunnion · spline
gimbal
Pivoted rotational support
- articulationClear vocal expression
- angularSharp-edged or rawboned
- misalignmentImproper positioning relative to reference
constant velocity · phasing · degrees · flex · pivot · coupling · linkage · steering column · industrial · machinery
replacement
What takes another's place
play · binding · rust · seized · noise · backlash · inspection · maintenance · lubrication · failure
- pivot partspivot point, swivel, hinge, fulcrum, pintle
- suspension partsshocks, strut, springs, control arm, shock absorber