What does an axle ratio of 4.0 signify in terms of drive shaft revolutions?

An axle ratio of 4.0 means that the drive shaft revolves four times for each revolution of the axle. This ratio indicates the relationship between the number of revolutions of the drive shaft and the axle itself.

When the axle makes one complete turn, the drive shaft must turn multiple times to transfer power from the engine to the wheels effectively. In this case, for every single turn of the axle, the drive shaft completes four full turns.

This ratio is crucial for vehicle performance, influencing acceleration, towing capacity, and fuel efficiency. A higher axle ratio typically offers better acceleration but can result in lower fuel economy, while a lower ratio may improve fuel efficiency but can sacrifice some power during acceleration. Understanding this concept helps drivers and mechanics optimize vehicle performance based on their specific needs.