Abstract: A tie rod assembly for a motor vehicle includes an inner tie rod member, an outer tie rod member and an intermediate member. The intermediate member is telescopically associated with both of the inner and outer tie rod members. A generally C-shaped clamp is adapted to arrest relative movement between the inner and outer tie rod members. The clamp includes first and second ends which are spaced apart so as to define a gap. The outer tie rod member includes a longitudinally extending slot. The clamp is fixedly attached to the inner tie rod member such that the gap between the first and second ends of the clamp is aligned with the longitudinally extending slot of the inner tie rod member. As a result, clamping forces are more effectively transferred from the inner tie rod member to the intermediate member, and in turn from the intermediate member to the outer tie rod member.

Abstract: A sealing washer assembly includes a threaded fastener, a nut and a resilient member attached to the nut and washer or screw and washer. The resilient member, typically a polymer of propylene, ethylene or other suitable material, is oversized with respect to the nut. The assembly is useful for connecting one member to another via an opening in the first member, and particularly, provides a system for sealing the opening against the passage of fluid, such as air.

Abstract: A fastener retention system for a wheel cover of a vehicle that comprises a stud attached to, and projecting axially from, a brake system of the vehicle. The stud includes an outer surface that has a plurality of helical threads disposed thereon. Further included is a lug nut that has an end portion including an inner surface with a plurality of helical threads disposed thereon for screwingly engaging the helical threads of the stud. The end portion of the lug nut includes an outer surface having a plurality of helical threads disposed thereon. Moreover, a nut end, integrally formed with the end portion, is included and has a plurality of ramped teeth disposed radially thereon and opposite the end portion. A decorative cap nut for covering, and fixedly attaching to, the lug nut, is also included in the present system.

Abstract: A three element fastening assemblage comprising a nut formed with a head end and a collared end, a dished-shaped washer and a retaining strap having a circular aperture aligned on the strap longitudinal axis of symmetry. The washer central base has its seating surface axially depressed from a radially extending peripheral washer flange facing surface. The retainer strap has oppositely extending bifurcated ends defining pairs of washer retention prongs the distal ends of which are pre-bent to extend normally from a facing surface of the strap. The nut is initially positioned with its head end extending through the strap aperture with the nut collar providing a stop shoulder contacting the strap facing surface. With the strap facing surface in flush contact with the washer facing surface the prong distal ends are reverse bent about the washer flange circular edge thereby capturing the nut collar between the strap facing surface and the washer seating surface.