Wide Angle Propshaft - Front - TVB100610WA

When a 4x4 is produced the angle of the propshaft in relation to the two end flanges is carefully calculated in order that the vibration inherent with universal joints* is undetectable. The universal joints at each end of a propshaft are also set out of line, out of synchronisation to control this vibration, this is known as phasing.

Lifting the vehicle by raising the suspension alters the propshaft angles which often causes severe vibration. Aggressive mud tyres, noisy engine and transmission and the slower speeds associated with hardcore off-road vehicles usually masks the vibration and drivers often tolerate the additional drone or rattle from the shafts on overrun. A more road biased lifted vehicle will most likely find the noise and vibration too obtrusive and will be keen to rectify it. The most effective way to eliminate vibration is to fit a propshaft with a double cardan joint** at the gearbox end. This was found to be essential on the Discovery 2.

Double cardan propshafts are a successful vibration cure on vehicles lifted around 2". Beyond 2" even the double cardan joint cannot always accommodate the angle without vibrating. It is a common misconception that fitting a wide angle propshaft will cure vibrations caused by raised suspension. The cause of the vibration is the angle of the shaft in relation to its end flanges, fitting a wide-angle shaft does not change the angles. The vibration may seem reduced, but this will be coincidental with a new heavier shaft in perfect condition.

Wide angle propshafts are necessary for vehicles fitted with very long travel suspension where on full axle drop out the original propshaft yoke will bind up straining the joints and ultimately locking the shaft solid which in extreme cases can literally tear the shaft in half. A 32-degree yoke and joint will accommodate typical long travel suspension set ups on chassis using around 11" travel shocks.

* Universal joints working at an angle speed up and slow down during rotation.

** Double cardan joints have two universal joints joined by and intermediate shaft, the joints are phased or synchronised with each other which overcomes the speeding up and slowing down of a single joint thus reducing vibration. *Terrafirma double cardan propshafts are a direct replacement and do not require a transfer box flange adaptor.