Abstract: A lock-ring system may include one or more lock-ring sections configured to at least partially define an annular lock-ring and one or more coupler plates configured to couple a first ring section end of a first lock-ring section to either a second ring section end of the first lock-ring section or to a ring section end of a second lock-ring section. The one or more coupler plates may be configured to be received in ring recesses of the one or more lock-ring sections. The one or more coupler plates may be coupled to the one or more ring section ends by fasteners and may be configured to slide relative to the ring recesses when the fasteners are loosened, so that a lock-ring formed by the one or more lock-ring sections may be mounted on, or removed from, a wheel assembly. A handle may be used to assist with maintaining separation of the lock-ring sections during handling and to assist with handling the lock-ring during removal and installation of the lock-ring on a wheel assembly.

Abstract: A bolt together wheel assembly with deflation system includes an inner wheel half, an outer wheel half, a bolt cover ring, and a removable valve stem. Clamping bolts and clamping nuts secure the outer wheel half to the inner wheel half. Venting port plugs secure the bolt cover ring to the outer wheel half over the clamping bolts. Loosening one or more of the venting port plugs to access the clamping bolts opens a seal to a vent port within the inner wheel half and releases pressurized air from a tire on the wheel, ensuring that the tire is deflated before the wheel can be disassembled.

Abstract: A lock ring spreader is capable of being mounted to a lock ring having a first end and a second end. The lock ring spreader comprises a first mount that is mountable to the lock ring near the first end of the lock ring and a second mount that is mountable to the lock ring near the second end of the lock ring. A crank arm is pivotally coupled to the first mount and extends radially outward from the first mount relative to the lock ring. A link arm is pivotally coupled to the second mount and the crank arm, and extends radially outward from the second mount relative to the lock ring. Pivoting the crank arm radially inward relative to the lock ring pivots the link arm relative to the crank arm and expands the distance between the first mount and the second mount.

Abstract: A lock ring spreader is provided. In one aspect, the invention provides for a lock ring spreader that includes a linear actuator suitable for spreading lock rings associated with large wheel rims, for example wheel rims suitable for use with mining equipment. The lock ring spreader includes mounts that can be removably coupled to a lock ring, whereupon the distance between the mounts is increased to expand the lock ring and remove the lock ring from the wheel rim. The lock ring spreader may be remotely controlled.

Abstract: A lock ring spreader is capable of being mounted to a lock ring having a first end and a second end. The lock ring spreader comprises a first mount that is mountable to the lock ring near the first end of the lock ring and a second mount that is mountable to the lock ring near the second end of the lock ring. A crank arm is pivotally coupled to the first mount and extends radially outward from the first mount relative to the lock ring. A link arm is pivotally coupled to the second mount and the crank arm, and extends radially outward from the second mount relative to the lock ring. Pivoting the crank arm radially inward relative to the lock ring pivots the link arm relative to the crank arm and expands the distance between the first mount and the second mount.