Gimbals play an essential role in the operation of a car. They are used to transmit engine power to the drive wheels. They are constantly called upon from the start of a vehicle and throughout the journey. Due to the intensity of the movements to which they are subjected, these parts can wear out. It is therefore important to have the gimbals checked and changed by a competent mechanic as soon as the first symptoms of deterioration appear.
The gimbals: how do they work?
The invention of this transmission system dates back to the 16th century. Originally, it was a device used to transmit the rotation from one shaft to another, even if the latter is not in a similar axis to the previous one. From this point on, the gimbal shaft is used for the entire PTO shaft. Currently, gimbals are used to drive the force of torque and engine out of the gearbox to the drive wheels. They are used when starting, accelerating, braking or steering, regardless of suspension movements and wheel orientation. Traction cars are equipped with a gimbal shaft for each front wheel, this element being installed on the rear tires for propulsion vehicles. 4-wheel drive cars are equipped with a gimbal shaft at each wheel.
When should the gimbals be changed?
The life span of the gimbal shafts varies depending on how the car is driven and how it is used. These elements can operate normally between 100,000 and 150,000 km, except in exceptional cases, especially for certain 4×4 vehicles that frequently travels on difficult roads and have to put heavy demands on their gimbals, for example. Excessive acceleration, driving only in urban areas and worn shock absorbers are also factors that promote gimbal shaft wear. The replacement of the gimbal shafts is essential when certain symptoms appear, such as a click or an unusual noise during each vehicle maneuver (starting, accelerating, braking or turning). As soon as you notice that there is grease inside the rim of the tires, immediately go to a garage to have the universal joints of your vehicle checked and replaced. When these elements are worn, they should be replaced immediately. Otherwise, they may break when you drive at high speed or when negotiating a turn. You could lose control of the car. You can perform a first check by turning your car over fully to detect a possible slamming. Then drive in one direction and then in another to find out which side the faulty gimbal shaft is on. When performing a slot, be careful for friction and noise that may indicate gimbal shaft wear.
Parts associated with the gimbals: to be checked and changed periodically
The bellows
These elements protect the universal joints against oil leakage and dust. They also contain the necessary grease reserve to ensure the proper functioning of the gimbal shafts. Drilled or cracked bellows can cause early wear of the gimbal shafts. When you notice such anomalies, consider changing the bellows so as not to cause irreversible damage to the gimbals.
The clutch
This component plays a key role during the starting, stopping and transmission of rotational movements between the gearbox and the engine of a car. It is composed of a stop and 2 trays. When certain symptoms appear, such as difficulty in shifting from one gear to another, resuming work, slipping or loss of engine power, do not hesitate to have this item checked and replaced by a professional garage. A change of the complete clutch kit, including the mechanism, discs and stop, allows you to obtain an optimal result and the guarantee of being able to drive safely for a long period of time.
Bearings and spinnaker seals
These elements also play an essential role. They contribute to the proper functioning of the moving parts of a car and ensure the transmission of traction. A regular check is essential and a replacement must be carried out every 100,000 km. In conclusion, you now know why it is necessary to have the gimbals of your car checked and changed. To ensure the sustainability of the new elements put in place, use the services of a professional.