Dodge 011529 PX40 Para-Flex Element

Yes, it was designed as one. Dodge states that Raptor meets or exceeds the torque, bore and speed ratings of those coupling styles and that all Raptor components can be used in existing applications without modification. Sizes map directly: Raptor E2 to E140 match Omega E2 to E140, and Raptor E2 to E80 match Dura-Flex WE2 to WE80. Raptor carries a 5-year limited warranty, which Dodge says applies even when it is used with competitors' components.

Raptor hubs are named by size, H for hub, then style: SB is a stock finished bore, CB a custom finished bore, RB a rough bore, TL a Taper-Lock bushed hub and QD a QD bushed hub, so 20HSB is a size 20 stock bore hub. A trailing M, as on E2M elements and HRBM or HTLM hubs, marks the metric Raptor range (metric hardware, bores and keyways); metric hardware elements need hubs tapped for them, so keep M hubs with M elements. Inch finished bores are a clearance fit for sizes E2 to E60 and an interference fit for E70 to E140; heat those evenly to 350 F in an oven or oil bath, not with a torch.

Yes. The Raptor element is split horizontally, so it can be replaced without moving or realigning the connected equipment and without locking the shafts. Elements are sold separately from hubs by coupling size; for example the E3 standard element is 015844. Standard elements are natural rubber, and an optional Armored element adds protection from ozone, petroleum oils and some chemicals. Both are rated from -45 F to 220 F, with a service factor adjustment above 180 F.

A complete Para-Flex coupling is two flange assemblies and one element, plus two bushings when bushed flanges are used. Flanges come bored-to-size, Taper-Lock (type H or type F flange assembly) or QD bushed (PX50 to PX200). Each size has a standard element and a neoprene element; for example PX90 uses element 011109 (standard) or 011300 (neoprene) and a 2517 Taper-Lock bushing. The range runs PX40 to PX320, rated from 429 to 453, 000 in-lbs. PH series elements (PH87 to PH192) are typically used in high speed applications.

Dodge rates Para-Flex for a combined 4 degrees angular, 1/8 in parallel and up to 5/16 in end float misalignment. The element has reinforced fabric tension cords that carry most of the torque and also act as a wear indicator, showing when the element should be replaced. The tire is reinforced at the split to reduce fatigue. Para-Flex couplings carry a 5-year limited warranty.

Failed units go to Dodge's US plants for evaluation — about a week in transit plus one to two weeks of analysis, and you get the findings either way. Warranty covers workmanship and material defects; failures caused by the application (lubrication, installation) fall to the customer, but the failure analysis tells you the root cause so it doesn't repeat.