Abstract: A locator guide extension connected to a locator on a host component by at least one retention barb or like feature. The locator guide extension effectively extends the length of the locator to assists an operator in the initial alignment of the host component part to the assembly. An operator locates apertures in the assembly with the locator guide extension prior to inserting attachment clips of the host component. Once initially aligned, the operator pushes the locator guide extension and locator into the aperture, where the locator provides the final fit/finish location. The attachment clip connects the host component to the final assembly.

Abstract: A locator guide extension connected to a locator on a host component by at least one retention barb or like feature. The locator guide extension effectively extends the length of the locator to assists an operator in the initial alignment of the host component part to the assembly. An operator locates apertures in the assembly with the locator guide extension prior to inserting attachment clips of the host component. Once initially aligned, the operator pushes the locator guide extension and locator into the aperture, where the locator provides the final fit/finish location. The attachment clip connects the host component to the final assembly.

Abstract: A trim retainer assembly having a clip portion with a base and a molded housing having a keyhole and an opening. The keyhole in the doghouse is smooth for improved molding and elimination of tuning since there are no detents in the bore to tune or maintain. The base is provided with a pair of arms that are flexible and each arm having a self detent feature that passes through the opening in the housing to provide clip retention and, at the same time, float for tolerance variations is provided. The pair of arms also include nominal centering detents. The keyhole bore, opening, and clip portion provides clip detent, consistent retention effort, float, centering and anti-rotation.

Abstract: A push on doghouse retainer arrangement used for providing a connection between the B-pillar of an automobile, and an appliqué having a high-gloss surface, or “show surface.” The a push on doghouse includes a formed low profile spring steel base and a slightly raised low profile doghouse portion, which includes a slot for receiving a base of a clip portion. The base also includes at least one attachment aperture. The attachment aperture includes an effective amount of serrations for holding of the doghouse onto a low profile rib molded into the part. The present invention simplifies mold design, minimizes potential for a read condition, and provides a robust engagement for a winged clip type fastener in limited space.

Abstract: A trim retainer assembly having a clip portion with a base and a molded housing having a keyhole and an opening. The keyhole in the doghouse is smooth for improved molding and elimination of tuning since there are no detents in the bore to tune or maintain. The base is provided with a pair of arms that are flexible and each arm having a self detent feature that passes through the opening in the housing to provide clip retention and, at the same time, float for tolerance variations is provided. The pair of arms also include nominal centering detents. The keyhole bore, opening, and clip portion provides clip detent, consistent retention effort, float, centering and anti-rotation.

Abstract: A retainer for limited space attachment of a vehicle part with a class A surface to a vehicle. The retainer has an attachment base operable for being connected to a rib of the vehicle part. A securing portion including an aperture for receiving a fastener is provided in the retainer. The retainer includes at least one sidewall connected between the attachment base and the securing portion. The sidewall spaces the securing portion from the attachment base to allow for insertion of the fastener and provide predetermined torque tension characteristics.

Abstract: A push on doghouse retainer arrangement used for providing a connection between the B-pillar of an automobile, and an appliqué having a high-gloss surface, or “show surface.” The a push on doghouse includes a formed low profile spring steel base and a slightly raised low profile doghouse portion, which includes a slot for receiving a base of a clip portion. The base also includes at least one attachment aperture. The attachment aperture includes an effective amount of serrations for holding of the doghouse onto a low profile rib molded into the part. The present invention simplifies mold design, minimizes potential for a read condition, and provides a robust engagement for a winged clip type fastener in limited space.

Abstract: A retainer for limited space attachment of a vehicle part with a class A surface to a vehicle. The retainer has an attachment base operable for being connected to a rib of the vehicle part. A securing portion including an aperture for receiving a fastener is provided in the retainer. The retainer includes at least one sidewall connected between the attachment base and the securing portion. The sidewall spaces the securing portion from the attachment base to allow for insertion of the fastener and provide predetermined torque tension characteristics.