Spring hanger and method for attachment
AssigneeReinke Manufacturing Co., Inc.
InventorsJohn E. Davis, Mark R. Virus, Daniel O. Seacat
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
An improved suspension that may be used in any dynamically loaded beam structure, such as a trailer chassis. Specifically, an improved spring hanger and method for attachment are discussed, in which the improved spring hanger is welded to the web of a support beam, where stresses are lower, as opposed to the bottom flange thereof. Methods are provided for welding the spring hanger to said beam alongside as well as in contact with existing, transverse support members.
Claims13
A spring hanger for use in a vehicle suspension for attaching suspension components to a longitudinal support beam comprising a web and lower flange, comprising:
- a first plate and a second plate in spaced, substantially parallel relation;
- a spring seat disposed between and secured to said first and second plates;
- wherein opposite ends of said first and second plates extend away from said spring seat upwardly and downwardly such that when viewed in an end view the hanger is substantially H-shaped;
- a first pair of corresponding openings in the lower ends of said first and second plates adapted to receive a suspension component;
- and
- a first weld member associated with the upper end of said first plate and a second weld member associated with the upper end of said second plate, said weld members being spaced apart from one another and having inwardly projecting planar portions for reducing the space between said weld members and engaging the web of said support beam and being attached thereto.
A method for attaching a spring hanger to a traverse support member of a vehicle chassis, wherein said member comprises a web and a lower flange, said method comprising the steps of:
- providing a spring hanger having a first plate and a second plate in spaced, substantially parallel relation, and a spring seat disposed between and secured to said first and second plates, wherein opposite ends of said first and second plates extend away from said spring seat upwardly and downwardly such that when viewed in perspective the hanger is substantially H-shaped;
- fitting said hanger about said support member such that said upper ends of said first and second plates extend above said lower flange of said member;
- providing a pair of weld members associated with said upper ends of said first and second plates, each of said weld members having inwardly projecting planar portions for engaging and being attached to said web of said support member;
- and
- welding said weld members directly to said web.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.