Abstract: A universal slider bushing includes an inner body within an outer body. The inner body has a convex spherical segment. The outer body has a concave spherical segment or socket supporting the convex spherical segment for universal movement. The inner body has a central through-passage. A ball bearing supports a shaft in the passage for longitudinal sliding movement and for rotation about its longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for reducing side impact forces in a body-on-frame vehicle includes a plurality of impact reducing members connected between the body and the frame of the body-on-frame vehicle. One embodiment of the impact reduction member includes a flexible cord preferably constructed from polymer fibers. The cord is looped around a portion of the frame and a portion of the body. Another embodiment comprises a self-securing polymer sleeve. The impact reducing members further may be protected by a sheath. Connecting members for connecting the impact reducing members to the frame include an arm and a plurality of bolts connecting the arm to the frame. The impact reducing members reduce the side impact forces during a collision.

Abstract: A vehicle spare tire hanger arrangement comprises an elongated carrier member suspended from the vehicle by together with first and second holding rods depending from the vehicle underside for storing either a minimum or a maximum thickness spare tire substantially horizontally therebelow. The carrier member comprises a main tire support portion having first and second connectors adjacent each end thereof with each connector offset a predetermined dimension from one side of the main support portion. The first holding rod lower end is attached to the first end connector by a universal hinge assembly enabling the carrier member, upon release of the second holding rod from the second connector, to be pivoted about a transverse horizontal axis from a horizontal tire stowage position to a downwardly angled tire removal position.