Spindle retainer for axle housing

摘要

A structure for positively retaining a journal portion of a spindle in a tube portion of a vehicle axle housing includes a transverse aperture formed through the tube portion near the outer end thereof. The aperture extends partially into the interior of the tube portion and is defined by a radius of curvature. A generally hollow cylindrical spindle is connected to the end of the tube portion. The spindle includes a journal portion which is telescopically received within the hollow tube portion. An annular groove is formed in the outer surface of the journal portion of the spindle near the inner end thereof. The groove is defined by a radius of curvature which is substantially larger than the radius of curvature defining the transverse aperture. When the spindle is inserted within the tube portion, the groove is aligned with the transverse aperture. A threaded fastener is disposed within the transverse aperture. The threaded fastener has a radius of curvature which is slightly smaller than the radius of curvature of the transverse aperture. The threaded fastener prevents the removal of the journal portion from the tube portion, thereby positively retaining the spindle within the axle housing.