IMPROVED SPLIT SPROCKET ASSEMBLY

摘要

A split sprocket assembly (10). The sprocket assembly (10) does not require additional separate fasteners extending substantially parallel to the axis of the drive shaft (18). Further, the sprocket assembly (10) includes first (26) and second sprocket (30) sections having integrally formed connecting means to connect the sprocket members (26, 30) about the shaft (18). The connecting means preferably includes a projection (42) formed on one sprocket section (26) and a complementary recess (46) formed on the other sprocket section. The geometry of the projection (42) and the recess (46) is preferably that of a dove-tail shape. The connecting means further includes means for preventing axial movement of the sprocket sections (26, 30) relative to one another. In one embodiment, the sprocket assembly (10) does not require any additional separate fasteners at all, and the preventing means includes locking members (50) to provide a cylindrical snap fit. In an alternative embodiment, the preventing means includes fasteners (58) extending in a direction perpendicular to a plane including the axis of the shaft and through both sprocket members.