Abstract: A solenoid operated spool valve has a dampening reservoir formed at one end of the spool and which is ported for immersion in a fluid sump. The reservoir port is oriented vertically above the spool and a cap with an offset port is received over the reservoir port to baffle fluid flow from the reservoir and prevent the reservoir from draining when the port is fluid starved in the sump.

Abstract: A combination thermally responsive refrigerant expansion valve with integral electrically operated inlet shutoff valve having an inlet shutoff valve seat surrounded by a flow diffuser which eliminates undesirable flow noise. In the preferred embodiment the diffuser comprises a plurality of radially extending flow channels formed adjacent the inlet shutoff valve seat integrally in a one-piece valve seat member.

Abstract: A solenoid operated valve has a moveable armature sealed within an armature guide with a fluid dashpot disposed therein for velocity dampening armature movement as the armature closes an air gap with a stationary pole piece.

Abstract: A method of preventing a vacuum from developing in a low-pressure area of a vehicle anti-lock brake system comprises providing periodically opening normally closed electromagnet valves when brakes are not applied, the valves connecting wheel brakes to a tandem master cylinder by low pressure lines passing through the low-pressure area. As a result, pressures in a tandem master cylinder of the system and the low-pressure area level off and thus a vacuum trapped in the low-pressure area is eliminated.

Abstract: A damped piston assembly is configured for use in a vehicle anti-lock braking system pump includes a piston, an insert and an elastomeric annular element. The piston has an axial cavity in a piston end portion. The insert has a cylindrical portion slip fit to the axial cavity of the piston. The insert also has a lip at an insert end portion with a diameter larger than the axial cavity of the piston and less than or equal to an outside diameter of the piston. The an elastomeric annular element is positioned between the lip of the insert and the end portion of the piston. The elastomeric annular element defines a gap between an end of the cylindrical portion of the insert and a bottom of the axial cavity in the piston when the piston is in an unloaded condition.