Abstract: A selectively preloaded coupling assembly 10 for connecting tubular members includes a tensioned annular member 12 including opposing coupling means 14, an annular recess 22 formed within the tensioned member and a tension maintaining annular member 26 seated within the annular recess.

Abstract: Construction for a ball bearing retainer. There is provided a ball bearing retainer comprising an annulus having a plurality of circumferentially spaced ball receiving openings and one or more ball retaining fins extending radially from said retainer, arranged circumferentially therearound and positioned either tangent to, or for minor intersection with, the ball receiving openings. With balls in place in said openings, the outer ends of said fins are then displaced axially of said annulus toward said balls for retaining them in place. Such displacing of said fins may be accomplished by a single circumferentially applied rolling operation or a single press operation. By appropriate modification of the design, one, two, three or four such fins in varying sizes and arrangements may be used.