Abstract: A tool adapted to tighten tie-down straps utilized to secure cargo transported on flatbed trailers or the like. The tool includes an elongate handle having a standard ratchet mechanism fixed at one end thereof. A cylindrical socket extends from one side of the ratchet mechanism. The cylindrical socket is designed to encompass a conventional winch drive shaft. Diametrically spaced openings are formed in the circumferential wall of the socket for receiving a locking pin therethrough. The cylindrical socket could be configured internally, at least, to match the winch drive shaft with which it will be used, e.g., square, hexagonal, etc.

Abstract: A manual cranking apparatus for the landing gear of a semi-trailer. The cranking apparatus includes a rotatable mechanism that is permanently connected to the cross-shaft of the landing gear. The rotatable mechanism is adapted to be folded such that, in storage position, the mechanism is positioned beneath the trailer.

Abstract: The fifth wheel release tool is a device for applying the required force for releasing the latch mechanism of the fifth wheel hitch securing a semi-trailer to a truck tractor. The release tool has a hook which is removably secured to the hitch release handle, a non-resilient line extending from the hook, a treadle or stirrup secured to the opposite end of the line from the hook, and a saddle which is removably secured to a relatively fixed structure and over or through which the flexible line runs. This assembly transfers the tensile force applied to the release handle from the horizontal to the vertical as the flexible line passes over the saddle component. A person using the present release tool need only apply one's weight to the treadle or stirrup, in order to apply sufficient force to release even a relatively sticky hitch release.

Abstract: A manual cranking apparatus for the landing gear of a semi-trailer. The cranking apparatus includes a rotatable mechanism that is permanently connected to the cross-shaft of the landing gear. The rotatable mechanism is adapted to be folded such that, in storage position, the mechanism is positioned beneath the trailer.

Abstract: A manual cranking apparatus for the landing gear of a semi-trailer. The cranking apparatus includes a rotatable mechanism that is permanently connected to the cross-shaft of the landing gear. The rotatable mechanism is adapted to be folded such that, in storage position, the mechanism is positioned beneath the trailer.

Abstract: A manual cranking apparatus for THE landing gear of a semi-trailer. THE cranking apparatus includes a spoked wheel which is permanently connected via an articulating shaft to THE operating cross-shaft of THE landing gear. THE articulated shaft is arranged to allow THE apparatus to be folded such that, in storage position, THE wheel is positioned beneath THE trailer. In use, THE apparatus is unfolded so that THE diametric plane of THE wheel is parallel to THE side of THE trailer. When unfolded, THE wheel is positioned at a height which enables THE operator to assume an erect posture, thereby reducing THE potential for back strain and increasing the amount of torque generated by THE same amount of muscular force.

Abstract: For a rotary lawn mower, a cutter means provides an attachment or original equipment, providing novel means of carry of flexible strips which provide cutter elements, the strips being easily mounted in the cutter body, and the mounting of the cutter body onto the mower's drive shaft providing an automatic means of holding the filaments strips to the cutter body.