Abstract: A quick coupling device for quickly and easily coupling and decoupling a work implement to and from a stick assembly is disclosed. The quick coupling device includes a hook member defined in the stick assembly. The hook member defines a recess. An implement pin secured to the work implement is positionable within the recess. The quick coupling device further includes an over-center spring which biases or otherwise secures the implement pin within the recess. The quick coupling device yet further includes an actuator which selectively loads the over-center spring so as to secure the implement pin within the recess, or alternatively removes the load from the over-center spring so as to allow the bucket to be decoupled from the stick assembly. In one embodiment the actuator includes a operator controlled fluid cylinder, whereas in another embodiment the actuator includes a lever assembly having a lever with a cam lobe secured thereto.

Abstract: A hammer assembly which decreases the severity of impact shocks generated by the hammer assembly during operation thereof is disclosed. The hammer assembly includes a housing defining a chamber. The housing further defines an injector port and an exhaust port each being in fluid communication with the chamber. The hammer assembly further includes a work tool positioned in the chamber, a piston positioned within the chamber, a first hydraulic pressure source which moves the piston in a work stroke toward the work tool, a second hydraulic pressure source which moves the piston in a return stroke away from the work tool, and a damping fluid source in fluid communication with the injector port. The hammer assembly still further includes a first valve which allows damping fluid to be advanced from the damping fluid source and into the chamber during the work stroke, and prevents damping fluid from being advanced from the damping fluid source and into the chamber during the return stroke.

Abstract: A method of coupling a fluid-powered work implement to a boom assembly of a work machine is disclosed. The boom assembly has a first male fluid coupling attached thereto. The boom assembly also has a plunger attached thereto. The work implement has a first female fluid coupling attached thereto. The first female fluid coupling has a first locking sleeve slidably secured thereto. The method includes the step of moving the boom assembly toward the work implement so as to align the first male fluid coupling with the first female fluid coupling. The method also includes the step of actuating the plunger so as to cause the first locking sleeve to be moved from a first locked position to a first unlocked position. Moreover, the method includes the step of further moving the boom assembly so as to advance the first male fluid coupling into the first female fluid coupling.