IMPROVED WAGON AXLE.
Wilbur F. Buckelew, Shreveport, La.—The object of this invention is to strengthen the wooden axles of wagons, and to fasten the skeins so that they will not become loose. A wooden axle is grooved longitudinally upon its under side throughout its entire length, to receive a rod, which is reduced in size at its ends, and threaded to receive the nuts. This rod is bent so as to conform to the tapering portion of the axle upon which the skein is placed. The skeins, having countersunk outer ends, are placed on the ends of the axle, and nuts having a beveled face corresponding to the countersunk ends of the skeins, are placed on the ends of the rod, and clamp the skeins securely on the axle. By giving the nut this peculiar form, it contains more threads than it otherwise would, and is in consequence stronger. The rod not only serves to retain the skeins securely in their places, but it also acts as a stay or truss rod for the axle, greatly strengthening it.