Abstract: A differential case has a plurality of spaced apart recesses on an internal surface for receiving a plurality of side pinions within the recesses. The side pinions are driven by the case without a differential spider or differential pin.

Abstract: An actuation enhancement for an automated vehicle inter-axle differential (IAD) locking system. The vehicle having an engine and a tandem drive axle. The IAD actuation enhancement locking system comprises a rotating sliding clutch and a rotating side helical gear, which are capable of an engagement mode and a disengagement mode, a microprocessor, and an electrical connection between the microprocessor and an engine electronic control unit. When the sliding clutch and the helical gear are placed in the engagement mode or are placed in the disengagement mode, the microprocessor momentarily communicates a data link message to the engine electronic control unit to break engine torque, to facilitate engagement or disengagement of the sliding clutch and the helical gear.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an automatic inter-axle differential lock actuation sensing method for a vehicle having a tandem drive axle. The inter-axle differential lock actuation sensing method comprises providing a clutch locking mechanism of an inter-axle differential for a vehicle, the clutch locking mechanism having a first set of teeth in a fixed position and a second set of teeth on a sliding clutch, locating a speed sensor such that when the clutch mechanism is disengaged the sensor measures a speed of the sliding clutch, and when the clutch mechanism is fully engaged the sensor measures zero speed even though the sliding clutch continues to rotate, providing a speed of the vehicle from a vehicle data link, and using the speed sensor-speed and the vehicle speed to determine status of clutch mechanism engagement.

Abstract: A two-piece anti-lock brake sensor bracket has a first bracket member or mounting bracket which is welded to an axle housing adjacent a wheel hub. A second bracket member which is a sensor holder is snap-fit onto the first bracket member. An anti-lock brake sensor is mounted in the second bracket member. A snap-fit design for attaching the two bracket members also provides a quick-release, allowing the second bracket member to be detached from the first bracket member. The sensor holder has protrusions which engage with apertures in the mounting bracket. This two piece design can accommodate variations in tone wheel diameter and position with only minor modifications. Additionally, this design is “universal” in that the same type of two-piece bracket assembly works with reduced envelope brakes. Therefore, manufacturing and assembly costs are reduced.

Abstract: A breather assembly (100) for a vehicular drive axle (10). The breather assembly includes a body member (102) having a vertically extending drainback tube portion (114) and a horizontally extending connecting portion (120), and a curved formed hose member (104) to minimize leakage of lubricant (S) from the drive axle axle housing (26) and ingestion of exterior water into the housing.