Free-Wheeling Devices and Their Control

DEVOTED to the mechanism of free-wheeling devices, this paper contains detailed descriptions of the devices now in use on American cars and a résumé of the experiences of the Studebaker Corp., which pioneered the device in this Country, and other prominent manufacturers, showing how present designs of roller clutch have evolved from those first developed, in which several rollers of graduated sizes were used in each pocket. Lubrication of free-wheeling transmissions is discussed.

Coil-spring clutches and one English design in which frictional contact is obtained through wedge-shaped shoes are also described.

The author concludes with the suggestion of a combination unit to include free-wheeling, service brake and sprag.