Automobiles equipped with front-wheel drive in the 60s were very interested in engineers and developers of almost all automotive brands. It was believed that such a body layout makes it possible to get more free space in the cabin. To implement this idea, engineers came up with a rather complicated mechanism at that time. He allowed to ensure the rotation of the front wheels and control them with a more compact design.
How to create a joint
Since there are several types of angular velocity hinges, it is very difficult to determine exactly which structure was the first. But there is an opinion that the knot on the basis of balls, one of the most popular today, was invented in the 20s.
The idea of creating a cam mechanism came up with the French inventor Gregoire. In the early 20's, he received a patent for this invention.
A paired universal joint element of equal angular velocities was mainly used in American car models and in the French Panar-Levassor transmission systems.
SHRUS - what is it?
SHRUS is a hinge of equal angular speeds. It is used in the design of independent suspension on front-wheel drive cars. This part provides not only the energy of rotation, but also allows you to control the rotation of the wheels. So, this node allows you to rotate the drive wheel at an angle of up to 70 degrees. The part is similar to a hand grenade, so motorists nicknamed this hinge.
This design is also found in cars with rear or all-wheel drive, but only in models with independent suspension. In this case, the rear wheels are able to move horizontally and vertically. There is an external and internal CV joint. What is this detail, you will soon find out.
How are angular velocity joints
Depending on the type of part, the design may be different. However, knowing how the SHRUS works, what this element is, and what its role is, the following can be said. On the one hand, the shaft is connected to the wheel bearing, and on the other, to the differential. Hinges of equal speeds give the energy of rotation from the motor to the drive wheels through bearings.
The main components of the product are a clip and a case. And on the case, and on the cage located inside the case, special grooves are cut where the balls are installed. Balls very rigidly connect these components to each other, thereby transmitting rotation.
Thanks to the larger working angle that the outer CV joint possesses (which you already know), the rotation angle can reach up to 70 degrees. The range of possibilities of the internal hinge allows it to move only 20 degrees. So, both externally and internally, the product uses various kinds of elements. From the outside, the drive shaft is equipped with spherical, but from the inside - tripod joints.
The external product consists of a holder mounted on a shaft and with grooves along the radius.
The housing also has grooves. Balls are installed in them, with the help of which torque is transmitted.
Internal parts may vary in design depending on the vehicle model and type of suspension.
So, on VAZ models, the grooves are straight, not radial. In Ukrainian ZAZ, the rollers are mounted on three spikes, rotating on needle bearings.
In our article we consider SHRUS. What is it, you already roughly understand that they work in rather problematic places, because there is always a lot of dirt and dust, so they are equipped with special protection. To do this, use a protective boot - this is a rubber pad that is securely held on the case with the help of clamps.
Advantages and disadvantages
You already know a lot about CV joints (that these are important details in the design of a car). Therefore, you can discuss the main advantages and disadvantages of these products. Among the advantages we can distinguish such a property. When energy is transferred, there is no loss in power, as is the case when using other mechanisms with a different principle of operation. Also among the advantages - simple replacement and low cost.
Among the shortcomings are the design features of the anther. After all, it performs several functions at once.
It is a mechanism to protect against dirt and a container for lubrication. The disadvantage of such a part as a CV joint is that this connection is located where it is impossible to prevent its contact with other objects. So, the boot can be easily torn, and without grease the “grenade” will quickly fail.
Resource or little about maintenance
The resource of these parts may depend on a large number of various factors.
Most often, this indicator is different due to structural features, as well as use. And if the car owner cannot change the design, then the operating mode is completely in his power.
Depreciation of the "grenade" in vivo is inevitable. But often the capabilities of these nodes are sharply reduced due to the fault of the car owner.
Someone likes to start, so that the car skidded with the wheels turned out. In this position, the external nodes are in a partially clamped state - these are increased loads. The consequence is an emergency replacement.
Other car owners love tuning. Sometimes engine power increases to serious limits, which does not lead to anything good. The greater the torque, the faster the wear.
Anthers
Another group of drivers forgets to check the condition of the anthers. There is a factor that has a significant impact on the life of a part such as a constant velocity joint. It’s easy to guess that it’s a lubricant. So, you need regular maintenance of the mechanism. If the tightness of the boot is broken, then this will not only cause contamination of the mechanism, but also the lack of lubrication. All this is not the best way to affect the durability of the node.
To extend the life of the product, you need to regularly monitor the anther, and the manner of driving should be more calm. Then this unit will last a long time.