Variable stiffness function through a check valve in a hydraulic

Abstract

Check valve assembly for a tensioner with a U-shaped retainer defining a cavity and having at least one retainer opening and axially extending flanges; a moveable member received within the cavity; a check valve spring received within the cavity and between the moveable member and the retainer; a valve seat having axially extending flanges and defining a seat opening nesting within the cavity of the retainer, and a check valve vent washer. The check valve vent washer has an outer circumference with a plurality of spaced apart legs and openings; and an inner circumference in fluid communication with the outer circumference through the openings, the inner circumference has a concentric interior well connecting the plurality of openings to a vent reservoir, a central ring defining a central hole in communication with the internal reservoir, the central ring comprising a vent groove connecting the vent reservoir to the central hole.