Abstract: A muffler mounting (26) for a muffler (21) which is connected to an internal combustion engine (11) by a rigid exhaust pipe (16). Previous mountings for such mufflers have either been of the rigid type, which subjects the muffler to undesired stresses resulting from shock, vibration or thermal expansion, or have utilized flexible rubber belting hangers which deteriorate rapidly when subjected to high temperatures. The present invention provides a relatively thin, flexible, generally-vertical metal hanger (52) comprised of a plurality of thin, stainless steel, strips (53) overlaid on one another, to flexibly connect and support the muffler (21) to the engine (11) or frame (12). The present invention is particularly useful in vehicles wherein the engine (11) is resiliently mounted on the frame (12) and wherein the muffler mounting (26) is subject to high temperatures, corrosion, and oxidation.

Abstract: A steering axle assembly including an elongated main frame, a pair of steering knuckles, each rotatably mounted on one end of the main frame and rotatably supporting steerable wheels, a hydraulic cylinder rigidly fixed to the main frame and having ports on each end through which hydraulic fluid is received, a piston slidable within the cylinder, a lever extending from outside the cylinder into the cylinder and connected to the piston, and a pair of tie rods each pivotally connected to the lever outside the cylinder and to the steering knuckles. The lever has a pivot between its ends so that as the piston reciprocates within the cylinder, the tie rods are movable to rotate the steering knuckles, and hence the wheels attached to the knuckles.

Abstract: A protective cover of a work vehicle has first and second frame members of a general U configuration connected to the vehicle at spaced apart locations with each frame member generally spanning the width of the vehicle with an operator's station position between said frame members. First and second supporting members of unique configuration are connected to the frame members and support an overlying roof member at preselected spaced apart locations.