Dana Corporation

Torque-traction Technologies, Inc.

James L Oess

Robert G Joyner

Kevin J Breidenbach

Thomas J Saba

Martin J Pearson

A method of assembling components of a universal joint, such as a cross and a yoke, positions and maintains the rotational center axes thereof in co-axial alignment during the assembly process. The universal joint includes a yoke including a body portion and first and second arms, wherein the first and second arms have respective openings formed therethrough. The universal joint also includes a cross including a body portion having a plurality of trunnions extending outwardly therefrom. Initially, an assembly tool having a recess formed therein is supported on the yoke such that the recess is precisely positioned relative to the rotational center axis of the yoke. Then, the cross is supported on the assembly tool such that one of the trunnions is received within and supported by the recess formed in the assembly tool. As a result, the rotational center axis of the cross is co-axially aligned with the rotational center axis of the yoke. Lastly, bearing cups are installed within the openings and respectively about the trunnions of the cross to complete the assembly.

Method for facilitating the assembly of a universal joint

A seal between two telescoping members in a slip yoke assembly including a driveshaft section and a slip yoke. A circumferential groove is formed in the outer surface of one of the telescoping members of the slip yoke assembly. The groove defines an annular collar which extends circumferentially about the end of the slip yoke. One or more recesses are formed in the bottom of the groove. Additionally, one or more axially extending slots are formed through the collar. Preferably, the slots are angularly offset from the associated recesses by a predetermined amount. One or more radially inwardly extending protrusions are formed at one end of the seal. To install the seal on the slip yoke, the seal is initially oriented relative to the end of the hollow cylindrical end portion such that the protrusions are axially aligned with the slots. Then, the seal is moved toward the slip yoke until the protrusions engage the outer end surface of the slip yoke axially adjacent the slots. Axial movement of the seal continues until the protrusions of the sealing member are circumferentially aligned with the groove. At that point, the seal is rotated such that the protrusions move circumferentially through the groove. Such rotation is continued until the protrusions snap into the recesses formed in the bottom of the groove to quickly and easily retain the seal on the end of the slip yoke.

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Toledo, OH, United States of America

James L Oess