Federal-mogul Corporation

Douglas A Drewes

Phillip D Yee

Eugene A Wolbers

A self-aligning clutch release apparatus includes an axially slidable carrier sleeve, a thrust plate floatably carried on the sleeve, and an anti-friction bearing shiftably supported on the sleeve independently of the thrust plate. The thrust plate can reorient itself in accordance with forces imposed by a clutch actuating yoke. The anti-friction bearing can shift relative to the carrier sleeve so as to be in a centered position relative to an array of clutch release levers.

Self-aligning clutch release bearing assembly

A clutch release mechanism for absorbing misalignments might occur between an annular driven member such as a bearing carrier and a stationary guide element such as a quill over which the driven member axially slides. A resilient spacer member is arranged between inner and outer tubular sleeves forming parts of the driven member such that the outer sleeve can be misaligned with respect to the inner sleeve without adverse effect on performance of the driven member. By absorbing misalignment between the bearing carrier and quill, wear between these members is significantly reduced.

Growing community of inventors

West Bloomfield, MI, United States of America

Douglas A Drewes