Abstract: A shield assembly is provided for an axle assembly of a machine. The machine includes a ground engaging device including a hub. The hub defines a cavity and an inboard opening to the cavity. The axle assembly includes a spindle, a final drive rotatably coupled to the spindle, and a gap disposed between the spindle and the final drive. The shield assembly has a shield body coupled to the axle assembly and disposed within the cavity of the ground engaging device. The shield body is located above portions of the spindle and the final drive, and extends over the gap.

Abstract: An excavator bucket top assembly can be completed as an assembly before being attached to other components to form an excavator bucket. The top assembly includes a flat bottom plate and a top plate with two bends, each having relatively simple geometry for ease of manufacturing. Two hinge plates penetrate through the top plate and are joined to both the bottom plate and the top plate. The top assembly includes strategically positioned, continuous weld joints to avoid weld starts and stops that create stress risers. The top assembly produces a torque tube which is stiff and resistant to fatigue.

Abstract: An excavator bucket top assembly can be completed as an assembly before being attached to other components to form an excavator bucket. The top assembly includes a flat bottom plate and a top plate with two bends, each having relatively simple geometry for ease of manufacturing. Two hinge plates penetrate through the top plate and are joined to both the bottom plate and the top plate. The top assembly includes strategically positioned, continuous weld joints to avoid weld starts and stops that create stress risers. The top assembly produces a torque tube which is stiff and resistant to fatigue.