Abstract

An improved bearing assembly includes an eccentric locking ring which is utilized to lock an inner race member to a shaft. The inner race member has an eccentric groove with a depth which tapers between relatively deep and shallow portions of the groove. Similarly, the eccentric locking ring has a radial thickness which tapers between relatively thick and thin portions of the ring. When the locking ring is in a released condition, the relatively thick portion of the locking ring is disposed in the relatively deep portion of the groove. In order to lock the inner race in position on the shaft, the inner race and locking ring are rotated relative to each other so that the relatively thick portion of the locking ring is pressed firmly against the outer surface of the shaft by the circumferentially tapered groove in the inner race member. In order to hold the locking ring and inner race member in the locking condition, a set screw extends through a threaded passage into engagement with the relatively thin portion of the locking ring. In order to provide this screw thread with a solid connection to the inner race, the screw extends through a relatively thick wall portion of the inner race into the shallow portion of the eccentric groove.