Honda CR-V Universal Joints and Driveshafts
The Honda CR-V is a compact crossover utility vehicle produced since 1995. It uses a driveshaft to transmit torque and rotation from the transmission to the differential and then onto the wheels. Honda CR-V universal joints and driveshafts will help you upgrade or replace the old parts in your Honda CR-V.
What is the purpose of the driveshaft?The driveshaft is used to connect various components of the drive train that cannot be connected directly. As motion is transmitted to the wheels, the driveshaft must retain power along the entire length of the system. The universal joints, also known as a U-joint, consist of a pair of hinges oriented at a 90-degree angle from each other. The purpose of the universal joints is to transmit rotary motion between two different rods in which the axes are inclined to each other.
What characteristics affect the performance of the driveshaft?The various factors you need to consider in the driveshaft include the balance, the length, and the composition. Each characteristic affects the overall performance of the driveshaft. The balance ensures that the driveshaft is properly tuned to efficiently transmit power to the wheels and reduce vibrations. Most standard driveshafts are balanced between 3,000 and 3,500 RPM, although high-performance driveshafts can go higher. The length and diameter of the driveshaft affects how fast the automobile can go before the driveshaft becomes unstable and starts to bend. A shorter driveshaft with a larger diameter will increase the speed you can go before it fails.
Lastly, the materials from which the driveshaft is made also play a critical role in performance. Aluminum, carbon fiber, and various types of steel are some of the most commonly used materials in the driveshaft. Aluminum, a relatively lightweight material, reduces the rotational mass of the driveshaft, which creates more horsepower. Carbon fiber is extra efficient, durable, and strong, but its generally reserved for high-performance vehicles. Steel is typically the standard material used in most driveshafts.
What characteristics affect the performance of the universal joint?Similar to the driveshaft itself, the diameter of the universal joints can affect the performance of your Honda CR-V. A larger diameter equates to more strength. You should also consider the load capacity that the joint is designed to endure. A high-quality universal joint should deliver high rigidity and strength-to-weight ratio with more resistance to fatigue, wear, and corrosion. Most cars use a 1310-series joint, whereas high-performance vehicles typically use a larger joint. However, you cannot simply install a larger universal joint without also changing all the parts around it to match.
Is compatibility an important factor to consider?Yes, the compatibility affects how well the driveshaft will fit inside of your Honda automobile. Unless you want to customize the performance of your Honda CR-V, most drivers should follow the recommendations of their manufacturer so that the new driveshaft will meet the original equipment standards and ensure the best possible fit. If you are purchasing customized aftermarket parts for your LX or EX-L CR-V, you should make sure that they are compatible with the make, model, and year of your Honda.