Reducing Friction in Steering Connections.
Page 73
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WHEN hall-and-socket or yoke ends are 'fitted to a track V V rod the contact in the joints of the stub-axle arms and the track-rod ends is of the sliding type. The object of the designer of the Summit track rod has been to provide rolling contact, thus minimizing friction, which entails reduced steering effort, less need for constant lubrication and a longer life.
From the accompanying illustration of one of the end sockets of the design in question thegeneral construction
can be gathered. The socket has a ,cup. formed in it base, making a race for the steel balls upon which rests the ballheaded pin passing through the steering arm on the stub axle. Above the head of the pin is another row of halls, which travel in a path formed in the screwed cap which closes the socket. This cap can be rotated to adjust the play in the bearing and is locked by a grub "screw. A stout rubber washer excludes water which might otherwise creep along the threaded portion of the pin.
A. grease-gun nipple is provided which needs attention about once a year, the socket acting as a reservoir; a ball bearing requires very little lubrication. •The split end of the socket is threaded and provided with a clamping bolt. When a rod is fitted the track adjustment can be set and locked by turning the socket on the rod and then tightening the clamping bolt.
For motorcars the price of the Summit track rod is it 19s. 6d.; for commercial vehicles it will be somewhat higher, according to the size of the parts concerned. It is made by t harles A. Haworth and Son, Maleham Street, Great Cheetham Street East, Broughton, Manchester; the fitment is also supplied by Kemps Vulcanizing Co., Ltd, 50 and 52, Hardman Street, Deausgitte, Manchester.