Single Universal Joints

Single universal joints can compensate an angular offset of up to 45° between the input and output shaft.
They typically operate at larger angles and higher torques than other types of couplings. They are also torsionally rigid and do not flex or wind up.

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Single joints are subject to non-uniform speeds at input and output shafts. This means that when the speed at the input shaft is constant, the speed at the output shaft fluctuates.

Double Universal Joints

Double Universal Joints can be created from two single joints by pinning or butting the hubs together, or specially designing the double joints with a single center section, to eliminate additional machining and assembling.

The advantage over a single joint is either an increased operating angle (W configuration) or the capacity to compensate parallel misalignment
(Z Configuration). They can also compensate the non-constant veloctiy between driving and driven shaft on a Single Universal Joint as long as they are oriented correctly.

Telescopic Joints

Telescopic drive shafts or double cardan joints are essentially a double joint with a section in the center that allows a flexible length of the center piece. The adjustable center element of a double cardan joint allows the shaft's length to be varied for easy installation or to compensate for axial play. This type of shaft can be used wherever a drive and its output shaft have not only parallel and angular misalignment, but axial displacement as well. Anywhere the position of the motor (drive) or the load (output) is frequently changed, an articulated shaft with a telescopic segment allows quicker, simpler repositioning than possible with a rigid two-joint shaft.
 

There are also applications that require a length change of the drive shaft in operation since one or both ends move. Depending on the application and environment, different profiles can be selected to design the center sliding feature. The simplest form is a square or hex shaft on one side with a mating hub on the other side. These connections are robust and cost-efficient.

For more precision and /or torque capacity, parallel-sided splines or shafts with multiple keys are a better option. Angled or involute spline profiles are available for extreme cases, but they come at a significantly higher cost.

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Wear on the shaft can be an issue when the sliding features move under load and during rotation – especially for stainless steels. Heat treatment or special coatings can be used to counter the negative effects.

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In some cases, ball splines may offer a low friction and low wear option for long life.

Upgrading to a Double-Cardan Drive Shaft: A Solution for Angle-Related Vibrations

If you're upgrading or replacing the drive shaft in your Jeep, Toyota, or other truck or SUV, you may be wondering what type of drive shaft is best for your vehicle. One decision you'll need to make is whether to use a single-cardan or double-cardan drive shaft.

A single-cardan drive shaft, also known as a conventional or non-constant velocity (CV) drive shaft, has a single universal joint at each end. This type of drive shaft can be prone to vibrations when the operating angle of the drive shaft is too severe.

A double-cardan drive shaft, also known as a CV drive shaft, has two universal joints at the upper end of the drive shaft, near the transfer case or transmission. The two universal joints work together to reduce vibrations and provide smoother operation, even at severe operating angles. This type of drive shaft is often used in Jeeps and other off-road vehicles because it provides the smoothest drive shaft operation. A common misconception about the double cardan is that the second joint will allow the shaft to flex twice as far before binding. This is not true. It may flex a little further before binding but will not always flex further than a single joint. Again, smooth operation is the purpose of the double cardan. 

So, when should you consider upgrading to a double-cardan drive shaft? First, if your stock shaft is/was a double cardan you should almost always replace it with a double cardan. The change from single to double cardan is often made on lifted vehicles that are experiencing angle-related drive shaft vibrations. When a vehicle is lifted, the operating angle of the drive shaft can become too severe for a single-cardan drive shaft to operate smoothly, causing annoying drive shaft vibrations and potential damage to the drive shaft and other drivetrain components.

Upgrading to a double-cardan drive shaft can help reduce vibrations and wear, but it's important to note that the change may require modifications to your vehicle such as installing a slip yoke eliminator on your transfer case and/or adjusting your pinion angle with shims or adjustable control arms. 

In summary, if your vehicle is experiencing drive shaft related vibrations after installing a lift, you should upgrade to a double cardan drive shaft.