UNIVERSAL JOINTS
[Illustration:
Oil Plugs
Slip Joint
Oil-tight Washer
Oil Plugs
Slip Joint
Oil-tight Washer
Fig. 113. Slip Joint and Universal]
Universal joints were designed to transmit power from one shaft to
another at constantly changing angles. An automobile engine cannot be
hung at the low level required to allow straight line drive, as it
would have to be carried from six to eight inches lower than it is in
present construction, and this would allow very little road clearance
if any. And as the rear axle receives the power transmitted to it at
a constantly changing level due to torque and spring action, it is
necessary to have a flexible coupling on the propeller shaft between
the engine and the rear axle to prevent the gears and bearings from
being damaged from distortion.
Universal joints are made of the best steel or bronze, do not require
any adjusting, and will outlast the life of a car, providing they are
not driven at too great an angle, and are kept well lubricated. A metal
shell or leather boot is fitted to the joint to carry and provide
constant lubrication. This boot or container should be kept well-packed
with a heavy oil, (600-W steam oil, Whitemore’s compound or a light
graphite grease).
[Illustration:
_No 3001_
_No 3004_
_No 3003_
_No 3002_
_No 3006_
_No 3007_
_No 3008_
_No 3005_
_No 3009_
_No 3010_
_No 3011_
Fig. 114. Universal-Joint Construction Diagram]
Remove the oil plug every thirty days and pack the housing. Use a dope
or oil gun to force in the lubricant. The housing should be subjected
to regular inspections quite frequently as the lubricant often escapes
from the end boot due to distortion and wear.
Fig. 113 shows the rigid construction of a heavy duty universal joint
and slip joint. The ends of the shafts are yoked and fitted to a swivel
cross block; the leather boot follows the angle of the shaft and makes
the housing oil tight.
Fig. 114 shows a sectional view of the “Standard” universal joint,
manufactured by the Universal Machine Co., of Bowling Green, Ohio. The
left-hand cut shows the forward section and tapered shaft seat. This
joint gives a combined universal action and slip on a two inch square.
All points are concentric and always in balance. The bearings are
provided with grooves and holes for lubrication. A metal and leather
boot is also provided for protection, and as a grease retainer. And
owing to the flange type there are but four bolts to remove in order to
disassemble this joint.
The names of the various parts are given according to corresponding
numbers.
3001--Flange
3003--Adapter for same
3002--Socket
3006--Bronze caps
3007--Trunion head
3008--Metal boot
3009--Leather boot
3010-11--Boot clamps
3004--Oil plug
3005--Bolts