The popularity of face spline technology developed by driveline specialist GKN Automotive continues to grow, offering an even lighter and more powerful option for current and future driveline solutions and opening up new repair opportunities for the aftermarket.  

Generally a sideshaft joint is connected with the wheel hub via a splined shaft, but GKN Automotive has replaced this longitudinal spline with a spline on the face of the joint. This interlocks with the spline on the wheel hub and the two are centred via the taper on the face spline joint. A fixing screw secures the parts and creates a non-positive connection.

The innovative design offers multiple benefits meaning an increasing number of vehicle manufacturers are making good use of this patented concept. It is lighter and more compact than conventional components and provides a greater surface area than a longitudinal shaft arrangement, thus permitting up to 509% higher torque transmission.

The face fixing simplifies initial assembly and maintenance, and guarantees a zero-play connection to the wheel hub, while a new, space-saving membrane boot enables articulation of up to 25 degrees.

The lower complexity and lighter configuration of the face spline design make it particularly well suited to future powertrains, such as electric, while the weight saving at the wheel noticeably improves the ride as the unsprung masses are lower by approximately 20%.

GKN Automotive’s ST technology (twin ball sideshaft with s-shaped ball track) lowers the joint’s internal friction even further, which pairs with the lower weight to deliver a positive effect on fuel consumption.

As well as the joint, the shaft itself offers further potential for improved efficiency. GKN Automotive combines the face spline joint with a hollow monoblock shaft that delivers exceptional stability and torsional stiffness paired with minimal weight. This gives a double effect with even greater benefits for fuel consumption and ride.

“The growing use of our face spline and monoblock technology in OEM applications promises increased sales potential for the aftermarket. As the developer, we can now also offer our face spline products to the replacement parts market with absolutely no compromise in design or quality,” says Frank Hürter, Commercial Director Automotive Aftermarket. “This means independent workshops can continue to maintain the latest vehicles, and profit from efficient, straightforward and reliable assembly.”