Abstract: A multi-piece propeller shaft includes a constant velocity joint disposed between and operably interconnecting first and second shaft segments. The constant velocity joint includes an outer race extending along an axis A from a first outer race end operably connected to the second shaft segment to a second outer race end to define an inner surface bounding an internal cavity. A vent and seal assembly is disposed inside the outer race and defines a plurality of venting cavities disposed serially along the axis A in fluid communication with one another. A first one of the venting cavities is disposed in fluid communication with the internal cavity and a last one of the venting cavities is disposed in fluid communication with an environment of the constant velocity joint for venting air from the internal cavity to the environment.

Abstract: A multi-piece propeller shaft includes a constant velocity joint disposed between and operably interconnecting first and second shaft segments. The constant velocity joint includes an outer race extending along an axis A from a first outer race end operably connected to the second shaft segment to a second outer race end to define an inner surface bounding an internal cavity. A vent and seal assembly is disposed inside the outer race and defines a plurality of venting cavities disposed serially along the axis A in fluid communication with one another. A first one of the venting cavities is disposed in fluid communication with the internal cavity and a last one of the venting cavities is disposed in fluid communication with an environment of the constant velocity joint for venting air from the internal cavity to the environment.

Abstract: A shaft assembly that includes a propshaft member and a constant velocity joint. The constant velocity joint has an outer race, which is coupled for rotation with the propshaft member, an inner race, a plurality of bearing balls disposed between the outer and inner races to transmit rotary power therebetween, a shaft member coupled for rotation with the inner race, and a boot assembly that is sealingly engaged to the outer race and the shaft member. The shaft member defines a coupling portion that extends from the boot assembly. A method for coupling a shaft member to a driveline component is also provided.

Abstract: An angle-limiting ring coupled to an interconnecting shaft of a driving axle coupled to a fixed ball type outer constant velocity joint. The angle-limiting ring prevents the overarticulation of the joint at any time when the driving axle is not fully assembled into a rear wheel drive system. This prevents the loss of the ball bearings contained within the joint associated with this overarticulation. A snap ring may also be installed on the interconnecting shaft that allows the positive retention of the interconnecting shaft into the inner race.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a constant velocity joint (“CV joint”) and, more particularly, to a Rzeppa CV joint and method of forming the same. The method generally includes the steps of forming a bell shaped outer bearing race and separating the bell shaped outer bearing race into a disc shaped outer bearing race and a stub shaft. The method may further include the step of machining the bell shaped outer bearing race to create the stub shaft integrally connected to the disc shaped outer bearing race, before separating the bell shaped outer bearing race into the disc shaped outer bearing race and the stub shaft.

Abstract: A locking washer for axles on vehicles that prevents a nut from rotational movement relative to the axle. The locking washer includes a sleeve step having central passage with a non-cylindrical section that is rotationally coupled to the axle. The non-cylindrical section may include polygonal lobes or splines that engage a matching shaped portion on the axle. The washer is engaged directly on the shaped portion of the axle instead of the threaded portion of the axle and thereby reduces manufacturing costs and steps by eliminating machining of the threaded portion. The washer being engaged on the shaped portion prevents any relative movements between the axle and the washer from disturbances such as vibration, impact, and rotation.

Abstract: A locking washer for axles on vehicles that prevents a nut from rotational movement relative to the axle. The locking washer includes a sleeve step having central passage with a non-cylindrical section that is rotationally coupled to the axle. The non-cylindrical section may include polygonal lobes or splines that engage a matching shaped portion on the axle. The washer is engaged directly on the shaped portion of the axle instead of the threaded portion of the axle and thereby reduces manufacturing costs and steps by eliminating machining of the threaded portion. The washer being engaged on the shaped portion prevents any relative movements between the axle and the washer from disturbances such as vibration, impact, and rotation.

Abstract: A method of reducing hard machining time, and correspondingly increasing hard machining tooling life, of a non plunging type constant velocity joint for use in reduced angle applications. The method comprises forming a recess having a larger formed radius in a portion of the ball track and cage track areas that is non-functional in low angle operations prior to heat treat hardening. The new process results in a significant reduction of approximately forty-five percent in the hard machining of the ball and cage track surfaces.

Abstract: An angle-limiting ring coupled to an interconnecting shaft of a driving axle coupled to a fixed ball type outer constant velocity joint. The angle-limiting ring prevents the overarticulation of the joint at any time when the driving axle is not fully assembled into a rear wheel drive system. This prevents the loss of the ball bearings contained within the joint associated with this overarticulation. A snap ring may also be installed on the interconnecting shaft that allows the positive retention of the interconnecting shaft into the inner race.

Abstract: A method of reducing hard machining time, and correspondingly increasing hard machining tooling life, of a non plunging type constant velocity joint for use in reduced angle applications. The method comprises forming a recess having a larger formed radius in a portion of the ball track and cage track areas that is non-functional in low angle operations prior to heat treat hardening. The new process results in a significant reduction of approximately forty-five percent in the hard machining of the ball and cage track surfaces.