Spicer Convertible Tandem Axles - Manual (Page 63)

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Theor
y of Operation
Theory of Operation
Theory of Operation
Power Divider Operation

(Power Flow and Torque Distribution)
In operation, the power divider accepts torque from the vehi-
cle driveline and distributes it equally to the two axles.
This assembly is of the two-gear design consisting of an input
shaft, inter-axle differential, output shaft and two constant-
mesh helical gears.
The inter-axle differential compensates for minor variations in
speed between the two axles, the same way the wheel differ-
ential works between the two wheels of a single drive axle.
This unit also acts as a central point in distribution of torque
to the two axles.
The power divider also includes a driver-controlled, air-oper-
ated lockout. When lockout is engaged, it mechanically pre-
vents inter-axle differentiation for better performance under
poor traction conditions.
With Lockout Engaged

(Inter-Axle Differential is Operating)
1 - Input torque
2 - Lockout disengaged
3 - Forward axle torque is transmitted from the helical side

gear through the pinion helical gear, drive pinion, ring gear,

wheel differential and axle shafts.
4 - Rear axle torque is transmitted from the output shaft side

gear through the output shaft, inter-axle driveline, drive

pinion, ring gear, wheel differential and axle shafts.
5 - Input torque (power flow) from the vehicle driveline is

transmitted to the input shaft and the inter-axle differential

spider. The differential distributes torque equally to both

axles.
1
2
3
5
4