Abstract: A lightweight drive axle includes an elongate, tubular body having a first longitudinal end configured for coupling to a side gear in a differential and a second longitudinal end configured to support a vehicle wheel. The shaft further includes a screw disposed at the first longitudinal end of the body. The screw comprise a shank configured to be received within a bore in the body and a head having first and second portions. The first portion is disposed at one longitudinal end of the screw, has a first diameter and is spaced from the first longitudinal end of the body. The second portion is disposed between the first portion and the shank and has a second diameter less than the first diameter such that the first longitudinal end of the body and the first and second portions of the head define a groove configured to receive a shaft retainer.

Abstract: A lightweight drive axle includes an elongate, tubular body having a first longitudinal end configured for coupling to a side gear in a differential and a second longitudinal end configured to support a vehicle wheel. The shaft further includes a screw disposed at the first longitudinal end of the body. The screw comprise a shank configured to be received within a bore in the body and a head having first and second portions. The first portion is disposed at one longitudinal end of the screw, has a first diameter and is spaced from the first longitudinal end of the body. The second portion is disposed between the first portion and the shank and has a second diameter less than the first diameter such that the first longitudinal end of the body and the first and second portions of the head define a groove configured to receive a shaft retainer.

Abstract: A drive axle shaft and method for making the same are provided. A tubular blank is inserted in a first die including an orifice. The tubular blank is extruded through the orifice to form an elongate tubular body with a longitudinal axis. A first longitudinal end of the tubular body is heated. The tubular body is inserted into a bore in a support apparatus. The support apparatus defines a second die at one end surrounding the bore, and the first longitudinal end of the tubular body projects outwardly from the bore. A third die comprises a mandrel configured to be received within the tubular body. A wheel flange is formed by moving at least one of the support apparatus and the third die toward the other of the support apparatus and the third die to deform the first longitudinal end of the tubular body between the second and third dies.