Abstract: A differential axle assembly for providing differential torque transfer between an input shaft and two output shafts is disposed within a housing. Friction discs are splined to each of the output shafts. Reaction discs are splined to a stationery brake housing or trumpet casting in turn fixed relative to the differential housing. A piston or actuator selectively compresses the reaction plates to frictionally engage with the friction plates and apply a braking torque to the output shafts. Grooves are formed in the friction discs to cause lubricating oil to be thrown outward through the friction plates and enter oil cooling channels formed to divert the lubricating oil. The lubricating oil is preferably split off through two oil cooling channels. A first oil channel extends along the differential housing outward toward the wheel. A second oil channel extends inward toward the differential case. The lubricating oil absorbs heat as it flows through the brake.

Abstract: A wheel end is provided where the spindle is an integral cast and machined trumpet-shaped arm made from high strength ductile iron, and a seal retainer is provided to locate and protect the inner wheel bearing and wheel end from debris. The trumpet-shaped arm is formed with a long parabolic radius machined with a reasonable surface finish to reduce or significantly eliminate stress concentrations. The mating cast iron seal retainer is employed to provide proper location for the inner wheel bearing and to transfer axial loads of the bearing to the spindle shoulder. In addition, the seal retainer retains the inner half of the seal face and provides a sealing surface to prevent escape of the axle wheel end oil. In this design, the outside diameter of the seal retainer is made to fit inside the wheel hub bore where it is protected from rocks, stumps, other debris, etc.