Abstract: A pivot socket of the present invention incorporates a stud shaft component having a partially spherical head portion disposed within a housing cavity, and an axial pin extension extending upward into the cavity therefrom. The partially spherical head portion seats against a partial spherical bearing surface disposed within the housing cavity, and the axial pin extension is enclosed within a resilient cushion. During use, lateral and axial loads imparted on the stud shaft are transformed into radial and axial component forces at the bearing surfaces. The radial force components are distributed to the interior walls of the housing cavity, while the axial force components are transferred axially through the resilient cushion to the end closure components secured to the housing. Little or no lateral force components are transferred to the resilient cushion from lateral loads imparted on the stud shaft, thereby reducing wear on the pivot socket components and extending the useful life thereof.

Abstract: A pivot socket of the present invention incorporates a stud shaft component having a partially spherical head portion disposed within a housing cavity, and an axial pin extension extending upward into the cavity therefrom. The partially spherical head portion seats against a partial spherical bearing surface disposed within the housing cavity, and the axial pin extension is enclosed within a resilient cushion. During use, lateral and axial loads imparted on the stud shaft are transformed into radial and axial component forces at the bearing surfaces. The radial force components are distributed to the interior walls of the housing cavity, while the axial force components are transferred axially through the resilient cushion to the end closure components secured to the housing. Little or no lateral force components are transferred to the resilient cushion from lateral loads imparted on the stud shaft, thereby reducing wear on the pivot socket components and extending the useful life thereof.

Abstract: An apparatus for moving the pivot point of an automobile steering mechanism. Tie rod connecting link (20) replaces an original equipment tie rod end. Connecting link (20) has a connecting link boss (22). Tie rod socket assembly (30) connects boss (22) with steering knuckle (40). Socket assembly (30) is comprised of stationary stud (36), socket (34), articulating stud (32).

Abstract: In order to check a vehicle for sagged coil springs, vertical distances are measured between the axis of each wheel and a predetermined location on the vehicle body, e.g., the underside of the fender. Those measured distances are compared with established values for that vehicle make and model. To facilitate that measurement a tool is elastically bent and the ends of the tool are mounted by friction-fit against the inside periphery of a wheel rim. The bent tool forms a convex bulge, the apex of which is aligned with the wheel axis and is disposed in or near a vertical plane in which the measurement is to be made. A reference mark provided at the apex of the bulge facilitates a measurement with a ruled tape measure.

Abstract: A vehicle spring suspension system comprising a primary spring and a secondary spring attached to the primary spring for aiding the primary spring to restore vehicle height and to carry increasing loads placed on or in the vehicle. The secondary spring is connected at one end by an assembly which can have serveral different arrangments for varying the load supporting function of the secondary spring on the primary spring, depending on the need for more or less load carrying cooperation between the primary and secondary springs.