Differential and Rear Drive Axle Fundamentals

     The simple rear drive axle assembly is shown in Fig.  9.10. It consists of thefollowing parts：

    Pinion drive gear - transfers power from the drive shaft to the ring gear

    Ring gears - transfers turning power to the differential case assembly

    Differential case assembl， - holds the ring gear and other components that drivethe rear axles

    Rear drive axle - steel shaft that transfer torque from the differential assembly tothe drive wheels

    Rear axle bearings - ball or roller bearings that fit between the axles and theinside of the axle housing

    Axle housing - metal body that encloses and supports parts of the rear axleassembly