Abstract: An auxilliary hydraulic steering system for use on mobile vehicles having an engine-driven pump supplying hydraulic fluid under pressure to a steering control unit and an accumulator. The accumulator is charged with fluid under pressure from the pump through a charge/discharge valve and connects with the supply line to the steering control unit only when this valve shifts in response to a predetermined pressure in said supply line.

Abstract: A telescopic boom includes at least two sections and a manual section is sections being extended and retracted by a single hydraulic ram. A first coupling selectively connects or releases the ram's cylinder case from the second boom section while a second coupling connects or releases the other end of the cylinder case to the manual section. The first coupling includes a crank for coupling and uncoupling the cylinder case and second section. The second coupling includes a retrieval pin movable into position for connecting the cylinder case to the manual section when retracting the manual section within the second section, and releasable lock mechanisms are provided to lock the manual section in extended position. The method of operating the boom includes the step of pivoting the boom to a near vertical position prior to extending the manual section relative to the second section.

Abstract: An arrangement for keeping taut and untangled the hoses of the hydraulic system of the telescoping booms of a crane includes a wheel around which the hose is trained and a cable by which the hose can be stretched and pretensioned so that the resiliency of the hose itself maintains the conformity of the hose to the wheel.

Abstract: A system for disconnecting or neutralizing a transmission including a normally open switch, which is closed upon depression of the secondary brake pedal, wired in series with a brake light switch and the coil of a solenoid operated valve. When the coil is energized the valve is shifted to cause the transmission to be neutralized.