A Technique for Reduction of Axle Generated Noises

Vehicle “axle noise” resulting from the resonant vibration of rear suspension and driveline components was measured and then reduced by changing their structural properties. No changes were made to the rear axle assembly to achieve the noise reductions.

Mesh frequency and twice mesh frequency response measurements of the rear control arms, axle housing, and propeller shaft correlated exactly with vehicle noise periods.

Structural stiffness and mass changes to these components with the effect on noise and vibration response is presented.

A description of the eventual production hardware which attenuated “axle noise” to an acceptable level is also presented.