In a message dated 4/28/2003 7:44:19 PM Eastern Standard Time,
LISTSERV@GERRY.VANAGON.COM writes:

> Steve, what bending are you talking about?  Sliding a piece of metal like
> this with forces transmitted through a shift linkage from a mortal human
> cannot damage this part.
> There is no bending, and drag reduction would not prolong the blocking
> ring's lifespan.(against cracking)
>
Pat,  its hard to believe that this part fails exclusively in shear.  I tend
to believe that there must be a bending component in the forces, granted that
it must be very small compared to the shear.  Even a small bending component
would have a substantial effect on the fatigue life.
Its my understanding that its not the blocking ring as you call it, that
fails but rather the hub over which it slides.

cheers,
Steve Cotsford
Columbia SC