Patent ID: 6371682
Filing Date: 2002-04-16
Classification: B60G,B62D,Y10T

Abstract:
A non-articulating joint assembly comprising:a shank member having a generally cylindrical end and a connecting portion end; a socket member including a first housing having a first bore, wherein said first bore is defined by a tapered inner wall surface; a cup-like inner bearing assembly having at least two mating split bearing members that substantially surround said cylindrical end of said shank member; said split bearing members having a tapered outer surface that matingly contacts said tapered inner wall surface of said first housing bore; a pre-loaded cap bearing assembly received in said first housing for exerting a predetermined axial preload on said inner bearing assembly and said cylindrical end of said shank member; said inner wall surface of said socket and said tapered outer surface of said inner bearing assembly cooperating with said cap bearing assembly to permit rotation of said shank member but resist articulation; wherein said cap bearing assembly includes an inner bearing, a spring member and a closure plate and wherein said inner bearing includes a top surface having at least one lubrication channel formed thereon and a bottom surface.