Abstract: A method of making a compressible elastomeric pad from a preselected polymer material includes the steps of providing a preform including a substantially solid body having a predetermined cross-section disposed normal to a central axis of the preform and a pair of axial ends, each having a substantially flat surface disposed normal to the central axis and a central socket formed within at least one substantially flat surface. Next, providing a pair of forming plates, at least one of the pair of forming plates having a raised annular ring and an axially aligned cavity provided on one surface thereof. Then, positioning the preform between the pair of forming plates and axially aligning the exterior peripheral edge of the annular ring with a peripheral edge of a respective central socket. Finally, forming the pad and removing the pad from engagement with the pair of forming plates.

Abstract: A compressible resilient elastomeric pad includes a body defining a central axis, the body formed from a predetermined material and having each of a peripheral side surface, a first axial end and a second axial end, each of the first and second axial ends having a flat surface thereof disposed normal to such central axis. A first raised projection is centrally formed on the flat surface of the first axial end and a second raised projection is centrally formed on the flat surface of the second axial end. A first groove is formed in the flat surface of the first axial end in abutting relationship with a peripheral side surface of the first projection and a second groove is formed in the flat surface of the second axial end in abutting relationship with a peripheral side surface of the second projection.

Abstract: A method of making a compressible elastomeric spring including at least one compressible elastomeric pad enclosed by a pair of metal plates includes the steps of forming plates with a center aperture and a plurality of prongs positioned about a peripheral edge thereof, forming each end of the pad with an axial projection and abutting groove, aligning the plurality of prongs with each respective projection and respective groove and applying axial force to one end of the spring to frictionally interlock the plurality of prongs with such projection and groove. The method also provides for making a multi-tiered stack of pads separated by plates in the above described manner and pre-shortening the spring prior to installation into the conventional yoke. The above described method additionally improves axial straightness and lateral stability of the multi-tiered spring assembly.

Abstract: A draft gear assembly for cushioning buff and draft dynamic impact forces being applied to a center sill member of the railway vehicle during make-up of a train consist and in-track operation of such train consist includes a resilient cushioning member and a friction mechanism both axially mounted within the yoke with the friction mechanism positioned between the front end of the resilient cushioning member and the front coupler follower. A pair of the resilient cushioning members with the friction mechanism mounted therebetween may also be provided.

Abstract: A draft gear assembly which is mountable within a yoke of the railway vehicle for cushioning buff and draft dynamic impact forces encountered during make-up and operation of a railway vehicle includes a compressible spring positioned intermediate the front coupler follower and the rear follower in alignment with the longitudinal axis of the yoke. A pair of axially aligned compressible springs may be also provided being either separated by a center plate or by a wall of the yoke.