| The purpose of a DeDion axle is to rigidly
attach the wheel hubs, whilst allowing the final drive assembly to be attached
independently. The DeDion axle usually comprises of a tube section bent at either end. In
some examples, the section is rectangular in shape. Within the axle, a sliding joint is
incorporated to allow for variation in the wheel track during suspension movements. In
figure 16, a Watt linkage is used to join the leading and trailing arm. The Watt linkage
is arranged in such a way, so that vertical wheel movement can be created without creating
any roll steer. This is because during vehicle roll each wheel hub tends to rotate
relative to the other. The sliding DeDion tube also contributes to this. A major advantage
with using a DeDion axle is that it reduces the unsprung suspension weight at the rear;
especially if inbound brakes are fitted. |
