Abstract: An annular propeller shaft (10) for transmitting torque from an automotive ehicle transfer case to the rear axle of the vehicle, the propeller shaft having an internal spline (16) which receives an externally splined portion (18a) of a drive shaft (18) at its torque input end and which is adapted to receive an externally splined portion of a slip yoke of a universal joint at its torque output end. The torque input end and a major portion of the length of the propeller shaft are surrounded by an internally lubricated housing (12), and the drive shaft is rotatingly support with respect to the housing by a ball bearing (20). The propeller shaft is rotatingly sealed with respect to the housing by a seal (32) and is rotatingly supported with respect to the housing by a sealed for life, internally lubricated ball bearing (28) which is positioned outboard of the seal. The outboard ball bearing is protected from contamination from external debris by an annular sheet metal guard housing.

Abstract: A multiple-shaft transmission having multiple gear ratios, at least one ro having a gearset with gear elements (58, 144, 204) that are journalled on their respective shafts (44, 112, 206) and that are continuously in mesh, each shaft carrying a clutch assembly (178, 188) that may be selectively engaged and disengaged to complete and to interrupt a torque flow path through the gearset whereby the gear elements are isolated from the input and output driven and do not contribute to the total inertia mass of the driven rotating components of the transmission when they do not form a part of the torque flow path, thus reducing gear rattle and reducing shift efforts required to effect gear ratio changes.

Abstract: A double clutch arrangement for use in a transmission or other place where mechanical clutch is desired that has a high torque capacity and small engagement and disengagement forces at the shift lever. The clutch arrrangement is utilized on the output shaft of a two-position clutch having forward and reverse gears and includes a ball screw actuated clutch mechanism positioned between the shaft and an externally actuated encompassing shift collar in combination with a friction clutch mechanism. The friction clutch mechanism comprises either a pair of clutch friction packs positioned between the shift collar and the forward and reverse gears or a pair of cone clutches therebetween. Initial actuation of the forward or reverse friction pack or cone clutch will initiate the ball screw clutch mechanism to lock up the clutch in either direction.