1. Input Shaft: The power divider receives power from the transmission or driveshaft through an input shaft.
2. Differential Gear Assembly: Inside the power divider, there is a differential gear assembly consisting of ring gear, pinion gear, and differential side gears.
3. Ring Gear and Pinion Gear: The ring gear is attached to the input shaft, while the pinion gear is connected to a driveshaft that goes to the rear axle. As the input shaft rotates, it drives the ring gear, which in turn drives the pinion gear.
4. Differential Side Gears: The differential side gears are mounted on a carrier between the ring gear and the pinion gear. They rotate freely on their shafts and are connected to the output shafts that drive the left and right rear wheels.
5. Power Distribution: When the vehicle is traveling on a straight road, both rear wheels rotate at the same speed. In this situation, the differential side gears do not rotate relative to the carrier. The power from the input shaft is evenly distributed between the left and right output shafts, and both rear wheels receive equal amounts of torque.
6. Differential Action: When the vehicle encounters a turn, the outer wheel needs to rotate faster than the inner wheel to maintain traction. The differential allows for this difference in wheel speeds. As the vehicle turns, the differential side gears rotate on their shafts, allowing the output shaft connected to the outer wheel to rotate faster than the output shaft connected to the inner wheel. This ensures that both wheels can maintain traction and the vehicle can turn smoothly.
7. Locking Mechanism: Some tandem axle power dividers incorporate a locking mechanism that can be engaged to lock the differential gears together. When the differential lock is engaged, the differential action is disabled, and both rear wheels rotate at the same speed, regardless of the road conditions. This is useful when the vehicle requires additional traction in slippery or off-road conditions.
By distributing power between the axles and allowing for different wheel speeds, the tandem axle power divider enhances traction and handling of vehicles with two rear axles. It enables them to navigate turns and uneven surfaces effectively while transferring power efficiently to the wheels.
