Spicer Drive Axles Failure Analysis Service Manual - Manual (Page 25)

Wheel Differential
24
W
heel
D
iff
er
enti
al
Shock (Impact) Failure
Wheel Differential - Catastrophic Failure Wheel Diff. Spider - Shock Load
Side Gear - Catastrophic Shock Side Pinion - Shock Loaded
General Description: Shock damage occurs from overstressing the gear teeth or spider beyond the strength of the material.
The failure can be immediate (as from a sudden shock) or progressive (as cracking of the teeth or shaft
surface following the initial shock).
Usual Causes: • Rough trailer hook-up
• Spinning wheels grabbing on firm road surface
• Misuse of the inter-axle differential lockouts
Failure Prevention: • Vehicle Operation and Drive Practices - see Failure Prevention Section
Failed at Radius
Granular fracture
surface