Federal-Mogul Motorparts gets US patent for design, construction of innovative ball joints

Federal-Mogul Motorparts, a division of Federal-Mogul Holdings Corporation, has been awarded a U.S. patent covering innovative improvements to the design and construction of the MOOG brand’s Problem Solver ball joints for vehicles equipped with compression-loaded suspensions.

The automotive service industry’s leading source of high-quality steering and suspension products that meet or exceed original equipment specifications, the MOOG brand now holds 47 U.S. patents.

“Innovation is a continuous process for MOOG product engineers,” said Richard Harvey, engineering director, steering and suspension products, Federal-Mogul Motorparts. “Our latest ball joint design improves on a well-established MOOG technology that already outperformed OE equivalents. Our engineering team never stops exploring new ways to help MOOG customers extend their quality and performance advantage within the repair market.”

The new patent, U.S. 9,291,195 B1, covers a multi-piece bearing system that extends the life of MOOG Problem Solver ball joints operating under high rotational load conditions for many late-model light trucks, Jeeps and SUVs equipped with compression-loaded suspensions. These vehicles utilize twin I-beam or solid axles. Original equipment-style upper and lower ball joints for many of these applications can bind – causing potentially severe steering returnability issues – if proper torque sequences are not followed during installation.

In addition to the technology covered by the latest patent in the MOOG portfolio, MOOG Problem Solver ball joints feature another innovative design that permits sufficient upper bearing movement even in cases when fasteners are not torqued in proper sequence. Also unique to this patent pending design is a precisely engineered knurl on the outside of the ball joint housing that helps correct for damage to the control arm or I-beam mounting hole. An oversized or misshapen mounting hole – common in repair situations – can permit excessive movement of OE-style parts, resulting in steering wander and/or abnormal tire wear. This design helps ensure a secure, interference fit for precise steering and handling.

The new MOOG Problem Solver ball joint also includes yet another unique patent pending feature, a pre-installed integral dust boot with an encapsulated Belleville washer. This design helps maintain an effective seal throughout the life of the part.