Abstract: An apparatus for controlling an automatic transmission of a motor vehicle, which has a first and a second transmission mechanism, and a testing device for testing for a shifting operation which requires shifting actions of both of the first and second transmission mechanisms. The apparatus further has a determining device for determining, based on a rotary member of the second transmission mechanism, that the shifting action of the second shifting mechanism is completed. The determining device determines that the shifting operation of the transmission is completed, at the time when a predetermined time interval has passed after the detemination that the shifting action of the second shifting mechanism is comleted. The point of time at which the completion of the shifting operation is determined may be utilized for various purposes for controlling the transmission.

Abstract: A ball joint includes a pair of generally hemispheric head members including facing surfaces. A bearing member is disposed between the facing surfaces. One of the head members is connected to a ball stud, the other includes a shank hole through which the ball stud passes. Both head members are enclosed in a ball seat which is deformed into conformity with a generally spherical outer surface of the combined first and second head members by a socket that is formed about them. An elastic member between the socket and the ball seat applies an axial force to said first and second head members, whereby a substantial preload on the ball joint permits take-up of wear during use.