Retainer assembly for a splined hub/shaft connection within a constant velocity joint

摘要

A retainer assembly is provided for attaching a splined shaft (50) with a splined hub (34). The retainer assembly is particularly useful in a constant velocity joint to attach the halfshaft with an inner hub (either an inner race or spider assembly). The retainer comprises specifically designed grooves (54, 38) at the outboard end of the splined shaft (50) and splined bore of the hub (34). The grooves (54, 38) are located outside of the splined area. A retaining ring (26) is also provided. The retaining ring (26) has a specific geometry that includes a pair of opposing legs (28) that are integrally connected to provide a v-shaped cross section and are flexible with respect to one another. The first of the legs (28) of the retaining ring (26) engages the groove (54) on the shaft (50) and the second of the legs (28) engages the groove (38) on the hub (34) to prevent relative axial movement between the shaft (50) and the hub (34) when in the retained position. A method of assembling the retainer is also provided.