A center bearing assembly includes a generally U-shaped bracket and a support
member
containing a bearing. In a first embodiment, a plurality of openings is formed
through the bracket. Each of the openings has axially forward and rearward tabs
provided thereon which extend inwardly toward the center of the bracket. The outer
surface of the support member is formed having a plurality of outwardly extending
protrusions. When the support member is installed in the bracket, the outwardly
extending protrusions of the support member are received within the openings formed
in the legs of the bracket to prevent the support member from being withdrawn radially
from the bracket. Portions of the axially facing surfaces of the support member
are engaged respectively by the tabs to prevent the support member from moving
axially relative to the bracket. In a second embodiment, a plurality of openings
is formed through the bracket, and a pair of circumferential inwardly extending
flanges is provided thereon. The protrusions of the support member cooperate with
the openings formed through the bracket to retain it therein.