Abstract: A mounting arrangement for a V-rod in a vehicle suspension includes an axle housing having a mounting cavity formed thereon and a joint member installed in the mounting cavity so that a joint coupling extends outward from the axle housing. The joint member may include a ball joint mounted on a post mountable in the mounting cavity. The mounting cavity may be formed in a boss provided on the axle housing.

Abstract: A mounting arrangement for a V-rod in a vehicle suspension includes an axle housing having a mounting cavity formed thereon and a joint member installed in the mounting cavity so that a joint coupling extends outward from the axle housing. The joint member may include a ball joint mounted on a post mountable in the mounting cavity. The mounting cavity may be formed in a boss provided on the axle housing.

Abstract: A shimmed joint between two components includes a first component having a first surface and a first passage extending to the first surface, and a second component having a second surface and second passage extending to the second surface. A shim is also provided. A fastener is arranged to fasten the first component relative to the second component with the shim disposed between the first surface and the second surface such that an opening in the shim aligns with and permits flow communication between the first passage and the second passage. A gasket is provided and includes a tubular portion received in at least one of the first passage and the second passage and a flange portion extending outwardly from the tubular portion and contacting the first surface and the second surface. A method of forming a shimmed joint is also disclosed.

Abstract: A multiple rear drive axle system for a vehicle includes a first axle coupled with a drive shaft from a transmission of the vehicle. The first axle includes a first cantilevered input pinion mechanically coupled with the drive shaft and with a first driven gear. The system also includes an output shaft mechanically coupled with the drive shaft. A second axle has a second cantilevered input pinion mechanically coupled with the output shaft of the first axle system and with a second driven gear. The first and second input pinions are common, that is, are substantially identical pinions. The first and second driven gears are also common, that is, are substantially identical gears.