The rear axle of a trailer is a typical driven axle, also known as a support axle, which does not have driving and steering functions. Its structure is simpler than that of a steering axle or drive axle, and it is connected to the frame through a suspension system, playing a role in load-bearing, braking, shock absorption, and maintaining driving.

The rear axle of a trailer can be divided into multiple categories according to different classification methods, such as drum and disc, lightweight and heavy-duty, regular and maintenance free, American and German, and so on. A few days ago, a car owner consulted with Darong Axle and wanted to replace the vehicle with a new axle. However, he was not sure if the original axle was American or German, and wanted to ask how to distinguish it.

Today, Darong Axle will focus on sharing with you the differences between American and German axles for your reference.

In general, the design of German style axles is more complex than American style axles, which is also to meet the lightweight and long-lasting performance characteristics of German style axles.

From the appearance, the brake drum surface of German axles is often reinforced with ribs. On the one hand, these reinforcing ribs can enhance the strength of the brake drum and to a greater extent avoid cracking or deformation of the brake drum; On the other hand, during high-speed driving of vehicles, these reinforcing ribs can increase the flow speed of air, improve the heat dissipation efficiency of the wheel end, and avoid overheating and failure of the wheel end.

From a maintenance perspective, the accessories used for German style axles are not compatible with American style axles and need to be purchased separately. Even for lubricating grease, it is generally necessary to use German specific products.

Of course, the most significant and reliable difference between German and American axles is still on the axle head, which is the exposed position of the axle beam at both ends after removing wheel end components such as wheels, brake drums, and bearings.

The shape of the axle head of a German style axle is relatively complex, generally presenting an irregular conical shape. The area near the axle beam is thicker, and the diameter at both ends is finer. The production process and processing accuracy requirements are also higher.

From a maintenance perspective, the accessories used for German style axles are not compatible with American style axles and need to be purchased separately. Even for lubricating grease, it is generally necessary to use German specific products.

Of course, the most significant and reliable difference between German and American axles is still on the axle head, which is the exposed position of the axle beam at both ends after removing wheel end components such as wheels, brake drums, and bearings.

The shape of the axle head of a German style axle is relatively complex, generally presenting an irregular conical shape. The area near the axle beam is thicker, and the diameter at both ends is finer. The production process and processing accuracy requirements are also higher.

On the other hand, the most significant advantage of American style axles is their good load-bearing and better resistance to construction. In addition, they are easy to maintain and have a relatively high cost-effectiveness. They basically do not pick up goods and can be widely used in various types of general cargo transportation. Therefore, they have become the most favored axle style among domestic car owners, with the highest market coverage.