DIFFERENTIAL UNIT FOR VEHICLE

摘要

PURPOSE: To provide a differential unit provided with adjustable bearing assemblies which allow adjustment of the bearing preload and backlash within the differential unit without using adjustment shims. CONSTITUTION: The differential unit has a differential carrier 10 adapted to support a differential case assembly 18. The differential case bearing assemblies 24 rotatably support the differential case assembly 18 within the differential carrier 10 of the differential unit. Adjusting rings 44 are provided and supported internally in a pair of axle tubes 12 associated with the differential carrier. The adjusting rings 44 are selectively biased against the bearing assemblies to impart the desired bearing preload and backlash within the differential unit. The adjusting rings replace the use of adjustment shims, and can be operated without removing the differential case assembly. The adjusting rings are threadably supported within the axle tubes to provide a rigid construction which simplifies construction and adjustment of the differential unit.