Biased pin retainer block for a rotary coupling system

Abstract

A rotary coupling system for railroad cars and the like includes a rotary connector which is mounted in a yoke and to which a car coupler is attached for unitary rotation. The yoke has an aperture or opening through which a pivot pin is inserted into aligned pin receiving holes in the rotary connector and a shank of the car coupler. An improved pin retainer block is provided to selectively close the opening and retain the pin in the receiving holes. Plural flanges extending radially outward of the retainer block provide support therefor in the yoke pivot pin opening between inner and outer radially inward extending support surfaces. The support surfaces are axially spaced apart from each other a predetermined distance for accommodating predetermined limited axial movement of the retainer block in the pivot pin opening. A spring-biasing means acting on the retainer block continuously urges it toward an innermost position with the flanges thereof in contact with the inner support surface of the yoke pivot pin opening. The dimensioning and spacing of the support surfaces, retainer block, pivot pin, and other system components are such that under the influence of the retainer block, the pivot pin is urged toward contact with the wall of the yoke at the area thereof disposed opposite the pivot pin opening. Such action enhances pivot pin location in the rotary connector and compensates for wear in order to better maintain integrity for the coupling system components.