Abstract: A low spring rate multi-convoluted collapsible spacer adapted for use as a bearing preloading element. The collapsible spacer comprises a substantially tubular body compressible in an axial direction thereof from a predetermined free length to a substantially shorter length. The tubular body includes a yielding zone and an elastic zone adjacent to said yielding zone. Each of the yielding and elastic zones has at least one convolution curved in the same radial direction. An average thickness of the body of the spacer in the elastic zone is substantially greater than an average thickness of the body in the yielding zone that provides the collapsible spacer a substantially higher resiliency in the axial direction in the elastic zone than in the yielding zone. As a whole, the collapsible spacer has a relatively low spring rate, thus larger amount of “spring back”, hence less sensitivity to wear and maladjustment.

Abstract: A low spring rate multi-convoluted collapsible spacer adapted for use as a bearing preloading element. The collapsible spacer comprises a substantially tubular body compressible in an axial direction thereof from a predetermined free length to a substantially shorter length. The tubular body includes a yielding zone and an elastic zone adjacent to said yielding zone. Each of the yielding and elastic zones has at least one convolution curved in the same radial direction. An average thickness of the body of the spacer in the elastic zone is substantially greater than an average thickness of the body in the yielding zone that provides the collapsible spacer a substantially higher resiliency in the axial direction in the elastic zone than in the yielding zone. As a whole, the collapsible spacer has a relatively low spring rate, thus larger amount of “spring back”, hence less sensitivity to wear and maladjustment.

Abstract: An apparatus comprising a support structure having at least one trunnion which is adapted to receive a generally cylindrical hollow tube. The trunnion includes an annular groove formed in an outer surface. The apparatus further comprises an annular reinforcing ring disposed in the annular groove. The support structure is preferably made of a non-ferrous metallic alloy and the reinforcing ring may be made of either a ferrous metal, such as iron or a steel alloy, or may be made of a composite material. The support structure may comprise an axle carrier or a disconnect housing of an axle drive assembly, or any other support structure having a trunnion which accepts a generally cylindrical hollow tube. The support structure may comprise a casting, and the reinforcing ring may comprise a prefabricated, one-piece construction which is cast in place in the trunnion groove of the support structure.