Abstract: A clamping mechanism for an adjustable steering column incorporates a pre-set but variable preload. An operating handle is fitted on a shaft to rotate between clamped and unclamped conditions. Part of the shaft is provided with opposed flats about which a shaft lock washer is non-rotatably fitted. The lock washer operates with a stop member to prevent rotation of the assembly and a nut is tightened on one end of the shaft to the required preload.

Abstract: A vehicle steering wheel lock housing is mounted as an interference fit on the end of a steering column which has an extended slot. The lock housing has an internal peg which slides in the slot and is spaced from the inner end of it. In the event of vehicle crash, the lock housing is driven further down the slot continuing to be loaded as a result of the interference fit, the tube closing around the slot after the tube has passed the peg. Instead of the steering lock housing, another tubular member could be mounted on the end of a steering column to achieve the required collapse facility.

Abstract: A device to absorb energy transmitted through a steering column for a vehicle in the event of a vehicle crash and/or driver impact on the steering wheel includes a slotted member in the form of a saddle bracket for connection to a steering column, a second member in the form of a bolt or the like extending through the slot of the first member and a third member in the form of a strap which is arranged to restrict relative movement between the first and second members upon vehicle crash, etc. The strap is stiff but ductile and is wrapped over the bolt so that, if the steering column collapses, the bolt will move in a direction out of the slot of the first member and run into the strap which is then unwrapped, thereby absorbing energy transmitted through the steering column. The strap can also itself be slotted.

Abstract: A locking device for an adjustable steering column assembly for a vehicle has first and second interengageable disc members each being provided with toothed areas which pass through respective windows of the other disc member to engage in corresponding portions of the steering column. A spring is interposed between the two members to urge them apart which has the effect of withdrawing the toothed profiles out of engagement with the steering column assembly so that they are retracted in the windows. The invention has for its effect to facilitate free movement of a steering column in a fore and aft direction and/or up and down direction, while being able to reliably lock the column in position when desired.

Abstract: A self-adjusting pivot mechanism for a car steering column arranged to take up wear and backlash, the mechanism including a housing bracket 9 for receiving a steering column 10, the housing having opposed symmetrical tapered trunnions 9A received in corresponding female tapered portions 11A of housing support brackets 11. The male and female tapered portions are resiliently urged towards one another by means of sprag washers 12 secured on extremities of the tapered portions 11A, which washers draw the parts 9A and 11A towards one another. Relative rotational movement between the portions 9A and 11A is accommodated.

Abstract: A shaft has rolling member bearings, a compression spring acting to urge the bearings toward the shallow groove in one end of the shaft and a ring fitting round said end, with a portion extending into the groove so that the spring force acts on the ring to assist in retaining the ring in the groove. In order to assist the retention of the ring in the groove, the ring may be provided with a chamfered surface on the outside of the ring at its end which is fitted to the groove. The groove may be axially longer than the ring portion extending into the groove so that the ring can move relative to the shaft. This is advantageous when, for example, tightening a steering wheel onto the shaft against the ring.