Universal joint

Abstract

A universal joint for coupling a pair of members with a connecting rigid link rockable about two sets of pivot axes. Each of the two members has a corresponding bolt hole through which extend respective stepped bolts defining two pivotal axes about which the link can pivot and rock. The link has opposite end portions each defining a loop through which extends a corresponding stepped bolt connecting a respective end of the link to a corresponding one of the two members the link couples. Each coupling bolt has a length with a major diameter extending axially through a respective coupled member and the corresponding loop of an end portion of the link to which it is coupled. An individual elastic sleeve is disposed circumferentially of the individual major diameter lengths of the bolts and a washer is disposed on each respective major diameter length between an end of the elastic sleeve and an internally threaded nut threaded on an external thread of a minor diameter length at the end of the individual stepped bolts. The link pivots about the elastic sleeves in opposite circumferential directions when coupled members rock. Provision is made for reducing play in the universal joint and allowing the link to pivot at either end about individual axes normal to the individual pivotal axes defined by the corresponding coupling bolts and elastic sleeves thereon. Each elastic sleeve has an elastic collar around each opposite end thereof disposed between the coupled member at one end and the link and at between the link and washer on an opposite end of the sleeve to define at opposite ends of the link corresponding axes normal to the pivotal axes defined by the respective coupling bolts.