Getting To Know Your Driveline: Yokes

How A Yoke Helps Connect Your Driveline

The yoke in your semi-truck's driveline is a small but extremely important component to consider when it comes to making sure you can safely and comfortably operate your vehicle. If you've been keeping up with our series on drivelines, then you'll be excited for our article on yokes. To help you increase your knowledge about the yokes in your big-rig's driveline, our experts have put together the following article. Keep reading to learn more!

What Is A Driveline Yoke?

In general, a yoke is described as a component that unites, couples, or connects two things. In your driveline, a yoke is a simple torque input and output piece. Typically, the hub diameter of the stub locates the mating part, which is typically a tube. The external spline of the stub mates to the internal spline of the slip yoke.

What Does A Driveshaft Yoke Do?

The slip yoke is a vital part of your vehicle's driveshaft. It is the component that allows the shaft to flex when going over rough or uneven roads. This flexibility lets your driveshaft's Universal-joint continue rotating properly in demanding terrain conditions.

What Is The Difference Between A Weld Yoke And A Slip Yoke?

While it may not seem like it, there is a big difference between slip and weld yokes. A tube or weld yoke is a yoke incorporating a locating diameter that aligns a tube or other driveshaft component. A slip yoke is designed to facilitate axial movement to the allowed length of axial travel. Typically, the hub diameter of the stub locates the mating part, which is typically a tube. The external spline of the stub mates to the internal spline of the slip yoke.

Where Is The Yoke On A Driveshaft?

The slip yoke is designed to be an internal splined shaft that connects to the driveshaft. The idea behind the slip yoke is to transfer power from the transfer case to drive shaft. The yoke slips in and out of the transfer case. Without the slip yoke, the U-joints could not rotate with the drive shaft properly.

What Are The Signs Of A Damaged Slip Yoke?

There are several indications you can use to determine whether your slip yoke has been damaged. Here are a few signs you may need to replace your slip yoke:

1. Clunking noises: This condition may be caused when the slip yoke does not slide smoothly through the output shaft splines.

2. Vibrations under the floorboards: yokes out of phase or misaligned angles can cause vibrations you'll feel under the floorboards.

3. Whining sounds: Even though it is not necessarily the most preeminent symptom of a faulty slip yoke, slip yokes without enough grease can create some whining sounds.

4. Grinding or squeaking sounds: IF you are hearing grinding or squeaking sounds, it is also possible that you have a damaged yoke.

How Much Play Should A Slip Yoke Have?

For safe and comfortable operation of your vehicle, a slip yoke should have two inches of engagement at all times.

Read More About Drivelines

If you have been researching drivelines and would like to know more about some of the individual components that make up the system, we have several articles designed to help you do exactly that. Click on any of the links below to read more about each part!

· Getting To Know Your Driveline ­

· Getting To Know Your Driveline: Clutches

· Getting To Know Your Driveline: Yokes

· Getting To Know Your Driveline: Driveshaft

· Getting To Know Your Driveline: U-Joints

· Getting To Know Your Driveline: Differentials

Shop Now For Semi-Truck Driveline Parts

For those looking into replacement parts for their semi-truck, you've definitely found yourself at the right location. No matter what driveline part you've been needing for your semi-truck, we have a full selection for you to choose from. Whether you are looking for clutches, axles, yokes, driveshafts, universal joints, or differentials, we'll have it from some of the most notable brands in the industry. Login or create an account to start saving on your next driveline component today!