Abstract: A cap acting as a grease retention feature and venting system allows crash optimization of a propeller shaft with a plunging constant velocity joint. The cap is located between a constant velocity joint and a tube of the propeller shaft system. The cap includes: a rim sealed against the inner diameter of the constant velocity joint, an interior vent chamber, a vent hole facing the interior components of the constant velocity joint and leading to the vent chamber, and an annular radial groove along the entire circumference connected to the vent chamber. The outer race has a hole perpendicular to the joint axis to complete venting to the atmosphere. In the event of a vehicle crash, the constant velocity internal joint components contact the device, causing the device to dislodge from its fixed position, contact the friction weld curls and fracture at a determined load.

Abstract: Disclosed is a cap that will act as a grease retention feature and venting system, while allowing crash optimization of a propeller shaft with a plunging constant velocity joint. The cap is located between a constant velocity joint and a tube of the propeller shaft system. The cap includes: a rim sealed against the inner diameter of the constant velocity joint, an interior vent chamber, a vent hole facing the interior components of the constant velocity joint and leading to the vent chamber, and an annular radial groove along the entire circumference connected to the vent chamber. The outer race has a hole perpendicular to the joint axis to complete venting to the atmosphere. In the event of a vehicle crash, the constant velocity internal joint components contact the device, causing the device to dislodge from its fixed position, contact the friction weld curls and fracture at a determined load.

Abstract: A constant velocity joint support bearing system having a bearing assembly supporting a first shaft connected to one member of the constant velocity joint. A first labyrinth seal on one axial side of the bearing assembly is formed by a shoulder that is unitary with the outer member of the constant velocity joint and by a radially inward projection on a bearing support bracket holding in place the outer race of the bearing assembly. A second labyrinth seal is formed between a cylindrical section of the bearing support bracket and an annular member that axially retains the bearing on the first shaft. Both the bearing support bracket and the annular member are formed from stamped sheet metal. The shoulder and the annular member are shaped to promote centrifugal slinging of contaminants away from the bearing assembly.