Inventors:
Dwayne E. Arff - Peoria IL
Barrett A. Flinn - Peoria IL
Wallace A. Lelm - Washington IL
Assignee:
Caterpillar Inc. - Peoria IL
International Classification:
F16C 1910
Abstract:
Apparatus is disclosed for preloading a thrust bearing disposed for carrying axial loads between a first member and a second member of a torque converter that are rotatable relative to each other about a central axis. The apparatus includes a first race assembly carried by the first member and disposed on one side of the thrust bearing. The first race assembly includes a fixed race having a radial bearing surface adapted to engage the bearing. A second race assembly is carried on the second member and is disposed on the other side of the thrust bearing. The second race assembly includes a floating race, a support ring, and a plurality of coil springs. The support ring has an annual groove with a bottom face disposed toward the thrust bearing and a plurality of apertures opening into the bottom face. The groove is adapted to receive the floating race and the apertures are adapted to receive the coil springs. The coil springs are adapted to urge the flowing race toward and maintain the race in engagement against the thrust bearing.