Abstract: A differential adapter is provided for adapting a typically standard axle assembly to use in a railroad track vehicle. Such an axle assembly has a spur gear, a differential case with a plurality of radially extending openings, connected to the spur gear, and has two axle sections each with a splined inner end. The adapter is dimensioned to fit within the differential case and comprises a body with two axially extending, axially aligned splined openings therein which are dimensioned to mate with respective splined inner ends the axle sections. The adapter also comprises a plurality of lugs extending radially outward from the body, and dimensioned and spaced apart thereon so as to snugly fit within respective radially extending openings in the differential case when the openings in the body mate with the respective inner ends of the axle sections. A differential and axle assembly which preferably utilizes such an adapter is also provided.

Abstract: A vehicle for use in transporting heavy equipment having a hydraulic system including a hydraulic pump, which vehicle has a hydraulic motor arranged to drive a pair of railroad track wheels. The vehicle also has an arrangement such that the hydraulic motor of the vehicle can be releasably interconnected with the hydraulic system of the heavy equipment to drive the former from the latter. A ramp can be reversibly lowered to an inclined position to facilitate loading and unloading of the heavy equipment onto the vehicle. The railroad track wheels are each electrically insulated from their corresponding axles.