Abstract: An axial load bearing assembly that may be for a steering gear box apparatus includes a first member, a second member, a jacket, and an elastomeric ring. The first member includes a first surface facing axially with respect to a centerline. The second member is constructed and arranged to move axially with respect to the first member between an extended state and a compressed state. The second member includes a second surface that axially opposes the first surface. The jacket is engaged to one of the first and second members, and includes a face facing radially inward. The elastomeric ring is disposed axially between the first and second members for axial compression, and is in biased contact with the face at least when in the compressed state preventing radial expansion of the elastomeric ring during axial compression.

Abstract: According to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention a worm shaft subassembly for supporting a worm shaft is provided. The worm shaft has a worm shaft radial load, a worm shaft axial load, and a worm shaft axial travel. The worm shaft subassembly includes at least one damping member to support the worm shaft axial load. The at least one damping member has at least one damping member axial load. The at least one damping member limits the worm shaft axial travel. The worm shaft subassembly also includes a bearing to support the worm shaft radial load and the at least one damping member axial load.

Abstract: An axial load bearing assembly that may be for a steering gear box apparatus includes a first member, a second member, a jacket, and an elastomeric ring. The first member includes a first surface facing axially with respect to a centerline. The second member is constructed and arranged to move axially with respect to the first member between an extended state and a compressed state. The second member includes a second surface that axially opposes the first surface. The jacket is engaged to one of the first and second members, and includes a face facing radially inward. The elastomeric ring is disposed axially between the first and second members for axial compression, and is in biased contact with the face at least when in the compressed state preventing radial expansion of the elastomeric ring during axial compression.

Abstract: According to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention a worm shaft subassembly for supporting a worm shaft is provided. The worm shaft has a worm shaft radial load, a worm shaft axial load, and a worm shaft axial travel. The worm shaft subassembly includes at least one damping member to support the worm shaft axial load. The at least one damping member has at least one damping member axial load. The at least one damping member limits the worm shaft axial travel. The worm shaft subassembly also includes a bearing to support the worm shaft radial load and the at least one damping member axial load.