We've been pretty quiet since mid-summer but it's not for lack of progress.. In the period since our last post we: finished cover design revisions, began tool development for injection molding, approved the first tool, tested 2 cover materials, decided on cover materials, tested mount pad configurations, bolstered mounting pads from test data, refined the product offering & finally, in November we're shipping backorders for the first design to our very patient customers..
Cover designs were adjusted to better fit the larger u-joints, 1760, 1810, 1880, RPL30, these covers look big when they're sitting on a bench. However, when installed the covers fit snug to the yoke and look like a factory installed option. We also took out a bit of weight (but not strength) in the flange interfaces which helps in the molding process too.
The underside of a working truck is not a friendly environment so the covers can't be dainty. We tested the 2 toughest materials used in auto & truck applications, "No Break" Polypropylene (PP) & Engineering Grade Nylon. We chose Nylon because the flexural modulus is lower (the part is stiffer) at high ambient temperatures than the PP. We've tried to break them, repeatedly. You could grind them up but I don't see how they can be broken.
Mounting pad tests led to (a) larger pads (b) separate size part numbers for drive-shaft mounted covers. Here's the logic; by the time you place your order, the drive shaft diameter has been measured. Now, you can order the correct size instead of paying for up to 7 additional pad sets only to be discarded. We still offer the kit with all 8 sets if that's preferred. The part numbering is intuitive as it equates to the drive shaft tube O.D. Example: Kit number 5060DSK fits a 5.060" (5-1/16") O.D. Drive shaft with Standard sized 1710 series (like SPL250) u-joints. Mount Pads are now available separately as well & part numbering is similar, Part Number 4625PD is for a 4.625" (4-5/8") O.D. shaft.
Finally! We have good inventory of Red & Black covers to fit 4.625" & larger driveshafts with Standard sized (1710 series) U-joints like Spicer SPL170 & SPL250. We're pushing the toolmaker so we can get the next parts in stock ASAP.
Thank you for stepping with us through the process of creating this new solution to an old problem.
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