| 摘要 |
A structure for securing a flexible boot to a face of the outer race of a constant velocity joint which includes providing the boot with a generally annular flat flange portion having a uniform thickness and a plurality of apertures formed therethrough. A securing structure includes a generally annular retaining ring having a corresponding plurality of apertures formed therethrough, with an axially extending collar portion formed about each of the apertures. The axial lengths of the collar portions are approximately 80 percent of the thickness of the boot flange. The boot is secured to the face of the outer race by disposing the retaining ring thereabout such that the collar portions extend through the boot flange apertures. Respective threaded fasteners are inserted through the retaining ring and boot flange apertures into axially extending bores formed in the outer race, which fasteners may be the way by which the joint is mounted. When tightened, the bolts cause the retaining ring to compress the boot flange to provide a seal between it and the outer race. However, because the collar portions engage the face of the outer race, the retaining ring can compress the boot flange to only approximately 80 percent of its original thickness, thus preventing the boot flange from being crushed if the threaded fasteners are over-tightened. In a further embodiment, there is provided a shell integral with the retaining ring to prevent ballooning of the boot at high rotational speeds.
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