What component transfers power from the transmission to the rear axle in rear-wheel-drive trucks?

The component responsible for transferring power from the transmission to the rear axle in rear-wheel-drive trucks is the driveshaft. This component acts as a mechanical link, rotating to transmit torque generated by the engine and delivered through the transmission to the rear differential.

The driveshaft is typically a long, cylindrical tube that must withstand significant load and rotational forces. It connects directly to the output shaft of the transmission at one end and to the rear differential at the other end. As the vehicle accelerates, the driveshaft spins, converting the engine’s rotational power into motion for the wheels.

In the context of rear-wheel-drive vehicles, the driveshaft is essential for transferring the engine's power to the rear axle, which then uses the rear differential to adjust the torque as necessary for each rear wheel to maintain traction and stability.

Other components mentioned, such as the rear differential, CV joint, and axle shaft, play different roles in the vehicle's drivetrain. The rear differential distributes power to the wheels, the CV joint allows for flexibility and movement of the axle during turns, and the axle shaft connects the differential to the wheels. Each of these components is important, but the driveshaft specifically is the critical link for the power transfer from the transmission to the rear axle