A rolling ball spline type of slip joint includes a first tubular member having
a plurality of inwardly extending regions formed therein. The first tubular member
has a wall thickness that is essentially uniform throughout the circumference thereof.
The slip joint also includes a second tubular member having a plurality of outwardly
extending regions formed therein. The inwardly extending regions of the first tubular
member are radially aligned with the outwardly extending region of the second tubular
member to define a plurality of longitudinally extending raceways. The second tubular
member has a wall thickness that is essentially uniform throughout the circumference
thereof. A plurality of balls is disposed in each of the raceways for transmitting
rotational force between the first and second tubular members, while accommodating
a limited amount of relative axial movement therebetween.
