Spicer Drive Axles Service Manual Wheel Reduction Drive Axles (EA-50) - Manual (Page 5)

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Wheel Reduction Drive Axles
Description and Operation
Spicer wheel reduction drive axles described in
this publication have a base single reduction
axle combined with wheel reduction hubs.
These units are designed for off-highway
construction, agriculture and timber
applications.
This type of axle provides a vehicle with
superior traction and towing capabilities. This is
accomplished through a planetary gear systems
contained in the wheel hubs reducing wheel rpm
and increasing torque.
Power Flow and Torque Distribution
Torque (power flow) from the vehicle driveline
is transmitted to the differential through the
primary drive pinion, ring gear and differential.
The gearing and differential design depends on
the particular axle model. The primary gearing
design can be spiral bevel or hypoid. The
differential design can be open, automatic
locking or manual locking. The differential
transmits torque to the axle shafts which drive
a planetary gear system within the wheel hub.
The planetary carrier rotates against a fixed
gear and drives the wheel hub.
Differential gear ratios range from 3.08:1 to
7.17:1. Hub assembly ratio is either 4.2:1 or
4.5:1 depending on the axle model.