Question about Solid Axles

[yellow_2002_germany]

Why is a solid axle, like on 53-62 Vettes, sometimes called a "Live" axle?

 

[Ken]

The C2 forum will suit you better, you might even get a few responses. :L

I forget why they call solid axles "solid axles" or even why they are sometimes called "live axles."

 

[KOPBET]

Why is a solid axle, like on 53-62 Vettes, sometimes called a "Live" axle?

A "live" axle just means that it has engine power applied through it, versus a dead axle or beam axle which does not, and is rigid. Solid axle vs. IRS is self explanatory.

 

[Ken]

You are being a bit too literal in the translation Kop. What yellow is seeking I think, is why the first generation Corvettes are sometimes referred to as either a solid axle, e.g., the "Solid Axle" Corvette Club, and sometimes they are referred to as "live" axles. It's a matter of semantics, I think.

_ken

 

[KOPBET]

They are essentially the same thing with the semantics being the solid axle that is the "driven" axle is also a "live" axle.

My '89 Toyo truck has a "solid axle". Maybe I can start a Solid Axle Toyo club? :L

 

[Mac]

A "live" axle just means that it has engine power applied through it, versus a dead axle or beam axle which does not. Solid axle vs. IRS is self explanatory.

Live, dead and beam axles are almost exclusively truck vernacular. As KOPBET says "live" means an axle that contains a differential which translates engine power delivered via the drive shaft to the wheels. Many trucks have multiple axles and not all of them are powered hence the different names.

Some of the older front wheel drive cars had beam axles in the rear (ie: k-cars) but most have independent rear suspension with McPherson struts.

Then you have the C5 which has a transaxle (transmission & axle together) but that's another subject all together.

 

[Ken]

Now what was Randy asking for? Huh? LOL

Why is a solid axle, like on 53-62 Vettes, sometimes called a "Live" axle?

:Silly

 

[KOPBET]

Why is a solid axle, like on 53-62 Vettes, sometimes called a "Live" axle?

If this ain't what he's asking fer then I give up.

http://www.wittenburg.co.uk/OffRoading/Concepts/Suspension.html

 

[61 Silver]

Solid Axel

They say a picture is worth a thousand words!

Here are two photos: one of a 1965 rear independent suspension and the other of a 1961 solid axel differential.

Hope this helps!
Ray