Patent ID: 7117909

Claim:
A spindle plug assembly adapted to be mounted in an axle spindle for communicating a source of pressurized air through the axle with a rotary union assembly in a tire inflation system, said spindle plug assembly comprising: an arbor defining an upstream portion and a downstream portion threadably engaging said upstream portion, said portions defining an air flow channel extending axially through said arbor, an outwardly projecting radial flange defined by one of said arbor portions adjacent the other of said portions and an axially extending inclined portion defined by one of said portions so as to be proximate said flange; a sealing member carried by said radial flange for engaging an axle spindle and forming an airtight seal therebetween; a locking assembly disposed about said inclined portion of said arbor, said locking assembly moving radially outwardly upon said locking assembly being axially moved along said inclined portion of said arbor toward said flange, whereby said assembly engages the axle spindle and secures said spindle plug assembly in place within said spindle; and a fastening member engaging said arbor adjacent said locking assembly and moving said locking assembly along said inclined portion of said arbor upon said fastening member being tightened about said arbor.