Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A sliding sleeve of a clutch of an automotive vehicle or the like, includes a radially adjustable anti-friction bearing. A cap supported on the sleeve extends around and is spaced from the bearing thereby defining a radial slot. A generally L-shaped spring ring has one leg which extends over the radial outside of the outer ring and is obliquely inclined outwardly so that its end engages the interior of a cap. The other leg of the spring ring extends radially inward past the axial outer end of the outer ring, is formed locked to the outer ring, and includes a sealing lip portion which extends into engagement with the surface of the inner ring for sealing the space between the outer and inner rings. The inner ring has a radially outward flange, and the sealing lip on the other leg of the spring ring engages the axially inward face of the radially projecting flange of the inner ring. In an alternate emboidment, the second leg of the spring ring is V-shaped and extends radially inward past the sealing lip and makes additional contact with the radial outside of the inner ring. The spring ring is of plastic material. It includes at its central portion an L-shaped sheet metal insert extending over the radial outside of the outer ring, axially down past the bearing outer ring for stiffening the spring ring.

First Claim