Karl Berger, GKN Driveline senior director of constant velocity joints, said: “GKN innovations make vehicles better to drive and more efficient. For premium rear-wheel drive programmes seeking CO2 emissions reductions, this system represents a step forward in weight, efficiency, performance and refinement for premium rear-wheel drive cars.”
The VL3 CV joint is claimed to increase torque capacity by up to 27% with no increase in packaging size. Available in four sizes, the VL3-33ISM variant now has a torque capacity of 3300Nm. The VL3 CV joint system is also said to maintain performance while reducing package size by approximately 7%.
With a plunging distance of 18mm, the VL3 is suitable for a rear constant velocity sideshaft for medium working angles with low axial forces and minimum backlash. It uses a Monobloc Tubular Shaft and Face Spline connection to the wheel hub to achieve packaging and weight advantages as well as noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) behaviour benefits, which results in a more refined driving experience.
The VL3 Monobloc joint uses a track geometry with four pairs of opposed ball tracks instead of three, which is claimed to enable it to transmit more torque to wheels within the same packaging space. The joint is further enhanced through the use of a diaphragm boot sealing system, instead of a standard boot and cap, which helps reduce axial packaging, grease volume and weight.
Berger added: “These latest innovations offer improvements in strength, endurance, efficiency and weight, helping to produce a dynamic driving performance and optimising power delivery from the engine to the wheels.”
