Abstract: A method and apparatus reduces hot spotting in transmission clutch packs actuated by a piston with axial fingers engaging the clutch pack. The method and apparatus combine an alternative pack arrangement with the fingered actuator, the alternative pack preferably being an inverted double sided pack or a single sided pack. The friction plates may have single or double side friction layers, but a second set of plates are splined for rotation with the shaft when the friction plates and the piston are splined for rotation with the housing in which the shaft rotates.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for reducing wear in a piston actuated brake or clutch pack assist retraction of the piston by configuring the friction discs. Preferably, a core is shaped with waves that generate axial force during brake release.

Abstract: A method and apparatus reduces hot spotting in transmission clutch packs actuated by a piston with axial fingers engaging the clutch pack. The method and apparatus combine an alternative pack arrangement with the fingered actuator, the alternative pack preferably being an inverted double sided pack or a single sided pack. The friction plates may have single or double side friction layers, but a second set of plates are splined for rotation with the shaft when the friction plates and the piston are splined for rotation with the housing in which the shaft rotates.

Abstract: A porous intermediate compact is first prepared from metal particles, carbon and a temporary binder. The compact is then heated to remove the binder and then infiltrated with the vapor of a metal having a melting point lower than the compact.