Abstract: The externally threaded surface of a clutch adjusting ring is provided with circumferentially spaced friction-enhancing plugs, preferably formed of nylon. The plugs are friction fit into bores located between the first and last threads of the externally threaded surface. The nylon plugs are slightly longer than their bores and, therefore, the top surfaces of the plugs extend slightly beyond the externally threaded surface. As the externally threaded surface of the ring is threaded into the cover, the corresponding internally threaded surface of the cover cuts through the radially extending plugs located in the threads of the ring. The plugs frictionally grip the cover thereby preventing, or greatly reducing, the amount of play in the adjusting ring, yet allowing the ring to be readily turned manually.

Abstract: An outboard constant velocity universal joint for a steered wheel of a vehicle includes a one-piece, structurally-integral inner race and first shaft and a one-piece, structurally-integral outer race and second shaft. The inner race has an outer surface of partially spherical configuration. The outer race has a closed end and an open end with an inner surface of partially-spherical configuration and of constant radius extending from the open end to the closed end. The inner and outer races fit closely together in the manner of a ball and socket without any cage between the surfaces thereof. A cage or retainer is located in the closed end of the outer race with a convex outer surface substantially equal in length to the radius of the inner surface of the outer race. The cage has a plurality of fingers extending only into end portions of the grooves of the inner race. The fingers have outwardly-extending flanges extending into grooves of the outer race.

Abstract: A system and method of tool path processing is taught which offsets a tool path from a given geometric sequence, avoiding tool interference and accounting for coincident tool paths. It guides a numerically-controlled machine tool in the manufacturing process. In accordance with the present invention, a computer-aided-manufacturing system defines or allows definition of a pattern to be machined by a tool having an offset, analyzes the pattern for points of intersection, breaks down the pattern into contiguous segments between points of intersection, structures a list of the segments, ordered between intersection points, defines tool path chains, responsive to the list; validates the tool path chains to define valid tool paths, and, guides the movement of the tool along a valid tool path.