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.