Spline gage system and method

摘要

An inspection device for inspecting production of splined members wherein the splined members are inspected to ensure that when the splined member is matched with a corresponding splined hole in an automotive drive system, the splined member will mate properly to serve its intended purpose. The apparatus of the invention is formed as a three-piece gage assembly that checks for lead errors and length errors set forth in the splined member. The combination gage includes a substantially cylindrical gage spacer, a splined ring gage, and a flush gage pin, which is associated with the splined ring gage, having a low end mark and a high end mark thereon. The markings indicate proper/improper axial length of the splined portion. The preferred embodiment is used to evaluate a drive pinion shaft of an automotive axle assembly.