Mitre boxes for heavy-duty and specialist vehicles
At Pailton Engineering, we understand that reliable, high-performance steering and drivetrain solutions are essential for any vehicle, especially those operating under demanding conditions. Our mitre boxes, also known as mitre gearboxes, are engineered to provide efficient and precise power transmission, enabling smoother vehicle handling, improved steering responsiveness, and enhanced durability.
From heavy-duty commercial trucks and buses to specialised military vehicles, our mitre boxes are designed to excel where it matters most.
Pailton Engineering’s mitre boxes are designed to be “set and forget” and will last for the lifetime of the vehicle. Our bevel boxes can come with an Ingress Protection (IP) rating of 66 or 67, providing you with the assurance that they have been independently tested.
What are mitre boxes?
Mitre boxes are mechanical assemblies that transfer rotational power between shafts set at different angles, often 90 degrees. By changing the direction of torque, these gearboxes allow engineers to optimise power flow within the vehicle’s drivetrain and steering system.
Whether it’s directing the driver’s steering input to the wheels or managing power distribution in a differential, mitre boxes play a critical role in overall vehicle performance. When integrated correctly, they deliver precise steering control, increased torque handling, and reliable performance under the toughest conditions.
Adapted for larger, more demanding vehicles
Larger vehicles, such as commercial trucks, buses, and heavy construction equipment, place higher demands on their drivetrain components. Ours feature thicker, more robust gear teeth, engineered from heat-treated alloys and specialised steels, ensuring durability and wear resistance.
We can provide alternatives to the standard 1:1 ratio and can provide oppositional rotation too, for turning circle restrictions or atypical applications. In addition, advanced lubrication and cooling systems help mitigate heat build-up and prolong the service life of every mitre box we produce.
Flexible mounting and configuration options
We recognise that no two applications are exactly alike. To accommodate diverse mounting requirements, our mitre boxes are available in a range of configurations, including floor-mounted, “T box,” “Tri Box,” front-mounted, and side-mounted options.
We also offer multi-gear assemblies suitable for dual-steer applications, providing greater flexibility in vehicle design. You can customise these solutions further with various levels of ingress protection, ensuring that your mitre box continues to perform even in challenging climates and conditions.
Serration options
To meet the precise needs of your application, we provide a range of serration options, including:
• 1×54, 66, or 79
• 19.05×48
• 22.23×48
These options allow you to achieve the desired interface between the mitre box and connected components, while bolt flat or circumferential groove preferences offer additional customization.
If required, Pailton Engineering can supply mitre boxes either as standalone units or pre-built into a steering column assembly, streamlining integration and reducing lead times.
Engineered for extreme environments
Our highest-performing bevel boxes are military grade and suitable for wading applications, but all our bevel boxes are tested to ensure longevity in the harshest under chassis environments found in commercial vehicle applications.
We incorporate cold-resistant materials, corrosion-resistant coatings and high-strength alloys that maintain their integrity at sub-zero temperatures and resist rust in humid conditions.
Industry-leading quality and expertise
With decades of experience in designing and manufacturing custom steering and drivetrain solutions, Pailton Engineering has earned a reputation for excellence. Our commitment to quality extends from concept and design through to rigorous testing, ensuring that our mitre boxes meet the highest standards of reliability and performance.
Get in touch
Whether you operate a long-haul transport fleet, manage a fleet of military or off-road vehicles, or require specialized steering solutions for construction equipment, our team is ready to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.
