Abstract: Methods of bonding a male element and a female element, the method including applying an adhesive composition to at least the male element, the male element including a first metal; inserting at least a portion of the male element into the female element thereby forming an external interface between the male element and the female element, the female element including a second metal; and curing the adhesive composition to form an adhesive bond between the male element and the female element, wherein the first metal and the second metal are not the same, wherein the external interface of the male element and female element is covered by the cured adhesive composition and the adhesive composition covering the external interface of the male element and female element limits corrosion of at least a portion of the male element, the female element, or both.

Abstract: A flexible cover for an axle hub joint is provided. The flexible cover comprises a tubular member having a first end and a second end. The tubular member is configured to cover the axle hub joint. A first flange is defined at the first end of the tubular member and is rigidly attached to a wheel hub. A portion of the second end of the tubular member is configured to rotatably connect to a bearing groove and is free to rotate within the bearing groove.

Abstract: A flexible cover for an axle hub joint is provided. The flexible cover comprises a tubular member having a first end and a second end. The tubular member is configured to cover the axle hub joint. A first flange is defined at the first end of the tubular member and is rigidly attached to a wheel hub. A portion of the second end of the tubular member is configured to rotatably connect to a bearing groove and is free to rotate within the bearing groove.

Abstract: A device for accessing an elevated entry position on a machine including an operator position includes a platform, which includes a step surface, configured to ascend and descend between a base position and the elevated entry position, wherein the platform remains within an existing envelope of the machine throughout ascent, descent, and storage of the platform, and wherein the ascending and descending proceeds along an axis substantially orthogonal to the step surface. The device may further include a lifting mechanism operatively connected to the machine and the platform.

Abstract: A labyrinth-guard arrangement for a joint between a compactor wheel and a machine that protects against intrusion of wire wrap into a central cavity of the wheel is disclosed. The labyrinth-guard is formed by a cooperation between a first flange connected to an inner cylindrical portion of the wheel, and a second flange connected to a guard plate. The first and second flanges, along with other surrounding components, cooperate to form the labyrinth-guard.

Abstract: A device for accessing an elevated entry position on a machine including an operator position includes a platform, which includes a step surface, configured to ascend and descend between a base position and the elevated entry position, wherein the platform remains within an existing envelope of the machine throughout ascent, descent, and storage of the platform, and wherein the ascending and descending proceeds along an axis substantially orthogonal to the step surface. The device may further include a lifting mechanism operatively connected to the machine and the platform.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of preventing refuse from wrapping around the axle of a work machine is disclosed. A work machine includes a frame, an axle, at least one wheel, an operator compartment, an engine, and an axle protection system. The at least one wheel has a rim extension having an outer portion. The axle protection system includes a roof guard and an axle guard assembly. The axle guard assembly has a plate and a labyrinth guard. A channel is provided by the configuration of the guard assembly, plate, and labyrinth guard such that the outer portion of the rim extension is received by the channel. The plate extends substantially vertically from the perimeter of the axle guard assembly. Preferably, a flexible member is attached to the edge of the plate and extends such that it is urged in contact with the roof guard.

Abstract: In the operation of a construction machine over terrain strewn with debris, there is a tendency for the debris to work itself into areas of sealing interface such as between an axle and the final drive assemblies of the machine. When this occurs the seals and possible the life of the drive components can be greatly reduced. The present invention comprehends a guard assembly that has a bracket member that is positioned on an axle adjacent a cylindrical hub defined by the wheels. The guard assembly utilizes a plurality of plates positioned within, above and laterally spaced from the hub of an adjacent wheel to prevent the ingress of foreign material into the hub. The hub and the sealed interfaces and other components housed therein are thereby protected from possible damage as a result of contact with the foreign material.