Method for controlling axle shaft endplay in differential assembly
US6497027B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 22, 2000 |
| Grant date | Dec 24, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 24, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49771
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method for controlling an axle shaft endplay in a differential assembly is disclosed. The desired axle shaft endplay is determined by a differential manufacturer based on the specific operating conditions of the differential assembly. In accordance with the endplay controlling method of the present invention, first the differential is partially assembled by mounting side gears and a differential pinion shaft carrying pinions in a differential case. Then, the manufacturer determines a thickness of an axle shaft-retaining ring that would provide the desired endplay. The manufacturer is provided with an endplay controlling kit of a plurality of the retaining rings of assorted thickness. The appropriate retaining ring is selected from the kit having the thickness as determined in the previous step. Next, axle shafts are inserted into the differential case through the side gears, and the selected retaining ring is mounted to the axle shafts. After this step, the assembly of the differential is completed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.