I need some live axil design tips!

[Joe G.]

1) Typically, either shaft collars or snap rings are used. Shaft collars simply clamp onto a shaft to prevent motion, while snap rings are seated in a groove, which must be machined into the shaft. Snap rings are very precise, however, and much smaller compared to shaft collars.

2) For securing the wheel's linear position, the same methods are used. However, careful use of spacers can reduce the number of collars and snap rings needed.

For securing the wheel's rotational position, a keyed or hex shaft is used, and the wheel is either mounted using a special hub that matches this shape, available from andymark, or broached, to have a hex hole or keyway cut in its central bore.