Abstract: A load skidding vehicle including a vehicle frame and front and rear wheels on the frame. A grapple mechanism is mounted on the frame and includes a grapple outside of the periphery of the frame for partially lifting a load to be skidded across the ground. A force applying member is carried by the frame for applying a force having a substantial downward component to a load grasped by the grapple at a point spaced from the point of engagement of the load with the grapple and remote from the frame to thereby provide a reactive force tending to equalize the weight distribution on the wheels of the vehicle.

Abstract: A composite inspection plate-step has a first member and at least one step member. The first member has a middle portion and inner and outer surfaces. The first member has at least one opening of a preselected configuration through the middle portion and is defined by a lower edge.The step member has first and second portions and is of a generally "J" configuration. The first portion extends substantially completely across and a preselected distance through the opening in the first member and is fixedly connected to the lower edge of the opening and is generally horizontal in the installed position. The second portion is fixedly connected to the outer surface of the first member.The first member is releaseably connected over an inspection port of associated structure by fastening means.

Abstract: An improved fairlead roller assembly wherein the wear portion is removably installed to permit facilitated maintenance and replacement. The wear portion of the assembly is defined by a tubular element which is captured endwise between improved end members and removably secured thereto by readily removable securing structure.

Abstract: A wheel assembly comprises an axle housing secured to the frame of a vehicle, a spindle secured to the axle housing and a wheel rotatably mounted on the spindle. The axle housing and wheel spindle are secured together at radial flanges thereof by a plurality of circumferentially disposed bolts. A concavity is formed on the inner face of each of the flanges to impose compressive forces on radially inner portions thereof when the flanges are drawn and secured together by the bolts.