SHAFT ASSY FRT AXLE RZEPPA
Front axle shaft assembly Rzeppa type
Constant velocity (CV) drive shaft
Rzeppa front axle shaft assembly for front wheel drive. This type of constant velocity (CV) drive shaft was primarily used by Ford during WWII on GPW jeeps and was also used on later models. The Rzeppa is a ball-bearing CV joint with inner and outer shaft components.
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Joint type Rzeppa constant velocity (CV) |
Construction Ball bearing system with cage |
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Application Front axle shaft with Dana 25 (10 spline) |
Vehicle See product category |
Features
- Rzeppa constant velocity joint with ball bearing system
- Contains long and short shaft section with CV joint
- Requires pilot pin for correct operation (early type)
- Ensures smooth power transmission at angle
- Proper lubrication with universal grease or thinner liquid lubricant necessary
★ The Rzeppa was a technically advanced constant velocity joint primarily used by Ford during WWII. The ball bearing system ensures constant speed transmission regardless of steering angle.
Application
Rzeppa front axle shaft assemblies were primarily used during WWII in Ford GPW jeeps. Also applied on later models with Dana 25 front axles (10 spline). Early and late versions exist: early type with nut and pilot pin, late type (from CJ-3A/M38 onwards) with snap ring without pilot. Components are not interchangeable between early and late versions.
Installation notes
Note: early Rzeppa (with nut) requires the pilot pin for correct operation - without pilot the joint becomes irregular. During assembly, thoroughly lubricate with universal grease or thinner lubricant suitable for CV joints. When disassembling, check whether pilot pin is not broken - a common cause of clicking noise in sharp turns. Use correct thrust washer (WO-A-780) for Rzeppa type.
Compatibility
Three different CV joint types were used during WWII: Rzeppa (primarily Ford), Bendix (primarily Willys) and Tracta (occasionally). These are NOT interchangeable without corresponding modifications in knuckle (different bushing/seal configuration). Late Rzeppa (CJ-3A/M38 and later) has different components than early WWII type - 100% not interchangeable.
Historical context
The Rzeppa was invented by Alfred H. Rzeppa in 1926 and was one of the first successful constant velocity joints. The ball bearing design was technically superior to simple universal joints and was primarily used by Ford during WWII on their GPW production.
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This part is intended for the restoration of historic military vehicles. Fitting, aligning, deburring or reworking is part of that work and is inherent to the nature of these goods. Dimensional variation also exists between original vehicles.
Installation requires technical knowledge of the vehicle. Unsure whether this part suits your version? Ask us before purchase at info@willys.be.
This part fits:
| Model | Years |
|---|---|
| Military jeeps | |
| Willys MB (early) | 1941, 1942 |
| Willys MB | 1942, 1943, 1944, 1945 |
📐 Diagrams & technical drawings
From the original Technical Manual TM 9-1803B — Ordnance Maintenance — Power Train, Body & Frame — only for Willys MB / Ford GPW (¼-ton 4×4)
