摘要 |
An improved method and structure for setting pinion bearing preload and fastener clamp load in a vehicle differential is provided. The apparatus and method provide a preload spacer readily accessible outboard of the pinion bearings and input yoke. Pinion bearing preload is set according to the present invention by the force of the pinion gear on the inner cone of an inner bearing and the force of an input yoke on the outer cone of an outer bearing. As a nut is torqued into contact with the input yoke, a preload spacer limits the movement of the nut as the input yoke engages the outer cone. This provides for consistent preload on the bearings and allows for increased clamp load for retaining the nut.
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