Comprehensive safety and comfort equipment in modern vehicles continue to limit installation space for the power train, which is why GKN developed Countertrack® joints.
The joints transfer the same power, with a reduced diameter for modern platforms, through the use of a characteristic S-shaped track profile and the counter-running ball tracks.
The innovative design makes it possible to reduce internal friction, heat and size and to increase the transferable torque and maximum bending angle.
Benefits
- Power loss is reduced by thirty per cent over the entire bending angle.
- Weight is reduced by 15 per cent with higher power values.
- Thanks to the reduced heat level, up to 25 per cent greater torque can be accepted and transferred
The great reduction in weight which comes along with the development of new vehicle models also provides benefits in terms of consumption and carbon dioxide.
Spare parts
The joints are now available as spare parts, “Should repairs be necessary, GKN Countertrack® joints must be replaced with joints of the same design,” said Frank Hürter, commercial director of GKN Automotive Independent Aftermarket.
“This is because GKN SX joints are not exchangeable with other designs; drivers would immediately recognise a generic aftermarket part without the patented SX technology through greater turning radii experienced while driving.
“There’s also an increased risk of failure, as conventional compact joints do not offer the sideshaft as much space for movement when utilising full spring travel and/or for the full steering angle of the wheel in comparison to Countertrack® joints.
“As a result, the sideshaft can permanently damage the joint.”
For further information click ‘more details’ below.