Integrated slew drive

A method of assembling a slew drive, comprising:

• (a) providing a threaded plug;
• (b) providing a retaining ring;
• (c) providing a housing comprising a first distal housing section and a second distal housing section, wherein the first distal housing section includes a threaded section operative to receive the threaded plug, wherein the second distal housing section includes a groove operative to receive the retaining ring;
• (d) providing a worm gear comprising a central threaded section, a first distal shaft section including a first shoulder, and a second distal shaft section including a second shoulder;
• (e) providing a first bearing seated on the first distal shaft section and abutting the first shoulder and the threaded plug;
• (f) providing a second bearing seated on the second distal shaft section and abutting the second shoulder and the retaining ring;
• and
• (g) providing a worm wheel comprising worm-wheel teeth operative to engage the central threaded section of the worm gear;
• whereby rotating the threaded plug in engagement with the threaded section, a compressive force is exerted upon the worm gear.