Method and apparatus for adjusting the backlash on a differential
US4821395A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 23, 1988 |
| Grant date | Apr 18, 1989 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 23, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T74/19623
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method for adjusting the backlash between the pinion gears and the bevel gears of a bevel-type differential is to mount the elements in the corresponding differential housing half, hold the pinion gears against the half and press the bevel gear towards the bevel pinion gears. The travel distance of the bevel gear is measured, and a shim is provided between the bevel gear and the housing having a thickness approximately equal to the difference between the measured displacement and the previously calculated desired displacement. An apparatus for practicing the method has a clamp for holding the pinion gears to the housing, locating means for precisely positioning the housing and bevel gear relative to one another, an air cylinder to press the bevel gears towards the pinion gear, and a micrometer used to measure the travel distance of the bevel gear. The clamp preferably also includes tangs resiliently pressing the bevel gear away from the pinion gears, both to aid in separating the bevel gear from the pinion gears and to compress any clutch pack in the differential, e.g., if it is a limited slip differential.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.