Drive axle system useable in 6 {33 {0 6 vehicle

摘要

A drive axle system of the type useable in a 6 x 6 vehicle, especially one utilizing a tandem axle assembly to transmit torque from the vehicle transmission to first and second rear drive axles. The system comprises torque dividing means within the tandem axle assembly and first and second torque transmitting means, such as the side gears of a differential. A first gear means transmits torque from the first differential side gear to the first rear drive axle and a second gear means transmits torque between the second differential side gear and the second rear drive axle. A third gear means is in engagement with the first gear means and may be clutched to a drive shaft to transmit torque directly from the tandem axle assembly to the front drive-steer axle, thus eliminating the need for a transfer case.