This short axle carries the wheel bearing and hub for a single free-rolling wheel, entirely separate from the drivetrain. It typically bolts to or forms part of the steering knuckle on front-wheel-drive rear suspensions or non-driven front axles. It supports the vertical load of the vehicle corner while allowing the wheel to spin freely.
Heard on the job
The bearing seized up so badly it galled the stub axle, so we've to replace the whole knuckle assembly.
Also heard as
- spindle
Do not mix it up with
- Half shaft: A half-shaft transfers power from the differential to a driven wheel, whereas a stub axle simply supports a free-rolling wheel.