Straight Bevel
Straight Bevel Fig. 26.35. Straight bevel The main features of the bevel type of gear is illustrated in Fig. 26.35. The tapered teeth, generated from the centre, are machined on the case-hardened steel gears and then ground together to form a 'mated pair'. The position of the crown wheel relative to the pinion determines the direction of rotation of the axle shaft. If the crown wheel is fitted on the wrong side, which is possible on some vehicles, then this provides one forward and several reverse ratios. For correct meshing and for setting the clearance between the teeth (backlash), adjusters in the form of distance pieces, shims or screwed rings are used. When backlash is too small, expansion results due to heat and wear is caused by lack of lubrication. On the other hand excessive backlash produces slackness and noise. Each manufacturer recommends a suitable backlash, but it is generally in the region of 0.15 mm for cars and 0.25 mm for heavy vehicles.