🔍 Key Concepts

• Mud pump power end components (crankshaft, connecting rod, crosshead, pony rod) and how motion is transferred • Difference between pipe fittings (nipple, flange, coupling) and mechanical motion-link components • Function of the pony rod as an intermediate member between the main drive and the piston rod

💭 Think About

• Visualize the motion path: crankshaft → connecting rod → ? → pony rod → piston. Which part in the answer choices fits into that mechanical chain? • Ask yourself which options are typically used to join sections of pipe that carry fluid, and which option is used to guide or transmit reciprocating motion in a pump. • Think about which item in the list is designed to keep the rod aligned and convert rotary motion into smooth linear motion, rather than simply sealing or joining pipework.

✅ Before You Answer

• Eliminate choices that are primarily pipe/pressure line fittings rather than moving mechanical linkages. • Confirm which component in a reciprocating pump is directly joined to the connecting rod on one end and the pony or piston rod on the other. • Make sure the part you choose normally slides in guides and transmits reciprocating motion, not a static bolted or threaded pipe connector.