Patent ID: 7568567
Filing Date: 2009-08-04
Classification: F16D,Y10S

Abstract:
1. A clutch assembly for use within a vehicle transmission, the assembly comprising: a first and second clutch hub flange having a continuous peripheral hub groove therebetween; a clutch drum having a flange wall with a peripheral flange groove; and a snap-ring retaining device having a main loop including an opening having a width which is reducable by compression of said main loop, the opening at least partially separating said main loop into a pair of operatively connected curvilinear portions, and a minor secondary loop positioned approximately 180° opposite said opening and directly connecting said pair of operatively connected curvilinear portions, said minor secondary loop being configured for affecting an amount of compressive force required for flexing of said curvilinear portions; wherein said clutch hub is insertable into said clutch drum, and wherein said snap-ring retaining device is insertable within both of said hub groove and said flange groove to thereby retain said clutch hub with said clutch drum.