Section 146 (Drive Shafts): Description
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford RV Cutaway, 2002 Ford Econoline, 2002 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2002 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The driveline transfers engine torque to the drive wheels. Power is transmitted through the transmission to the drive shaft and then to the rear axle assembly.
The following types of drive shafts are available on "E" series models:
- One-piece drive shaft is standard on vehicles with a wheel base of 124" and 138".
- Two-piece drive shaft design is standard on E450 models that have a wheel base of 158" and greater. The two-piece drive shaft includes a front or "coupling" shaft, a rubber-insulated frame mounted drive shaft center bearing support, a splined slip joint and an intermediate universal joint.
- Three-piece rear drive shaft design is standard on E550 models. Three-piece rear drive shaft includes a front or "coupling" shaft, 4 "U" Joints, 2 rubber-insulated frame mounted drive shaft center bearings and a splined slip joint.
For exploded view of drive shafts, see Fig 1-Fig 3 .
Universal joints are a lubed-for-life design. Equipped with nylon thrust washers, located at the base of each "U" joint bearing cup, which control end play and positions the needle bearings and improves grease movement. Two types of "U" joints are used, a Dana design and a Ford design.