The various loads acting on the rear axle are

1) Driving thrust- Driving torque produced in the engine causes the thrust to be produced in the road wheels, which has to be transmitted from the axle casing to the chassis frame and the body of the vehicle.

2) Torque Reaction- If the rear axle is held rigidly when the road wheels are prevented from rotation, (due to driving needs or road conditions) the bevel pinion of the final drive tends to rotate around the crown wheel. It produces a tendency in the whole vehicle to rotate about the rear axle, or to lift off the front of the vehicle. This effect is known as torque –reaction.

3) Braking torque or thrust- The axle casing experiences the brake torque when the brakes are applied to the vehicle.

4) Side thrust- When the vehicle is taking the turn, the rear axle subjected to the side thrust or pulls due to any side load on the wheel.

5) Weight of the body- The rear axle may be considered a beam supported at ends loaded. This weight causes bending and shears force in the axle shaft.