A Laboratory Test Methodology Development For Validating 4wd Front Axle Spindle

Abstract

Tractor is a vehicle specially designed for performing various agricultural and off-road applications. With the increasing popularity of 4WD tractor, front axle design & validation has become critical. 4WD front axle spindle is a part of 4WD front axle assembly. The power transfers from engine to spindle through input shaft, differential unit, intermediate shaft and King pin shaft. Front axle spindle failure was observed during field testing. No component level test methodology was available to validate the spindle in lab. In this current scope, a new laboratory level test methodology has been developed for capturing the failure. The propeller shaft of the tractor was instrumented, and torque was measured for different application. The acquired torque data was extrapolated for spindle & test specifications were derived. The existing samples were tested in lab and the failure, same as reported during field testing, was simulated in lab. Modified samples were also tested in lab and improvement in terms of life was observed. Field testing was performed with the modified design again for confirmation. No further failure was reported from field testing which ensures the robustness of the newly developed laboratory test methodology.