Abstract: A method and apparatus for placing a pile and a pile cap includes a platform having a set of rail wheels, a tower having pairs of opposed arms which are configured to support a hoisting cable and rotatably mounted with respect to the platform. The apparatus may further include outriggers slidably mounted on opposite sides along the longitudinal axis of the platform, ground wheels oriented such that the axes of rotation are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the platform, and a rotating cutting blade movably mounted to the platform proximate the tower. The apparatus also includes a platform having a set of rail wheels, a tower with an arm having a slidably mounted hoisting cable and a slidably mounted counterweight, and a positioning mechanism to selectively position the counterweight along the arm.

Abstract: A multi-fold door for an enclosed railcar comprising a first panel, a second panel and a third panel is disclosed. The first panel is pivotally attached to the second panel at an edge of each panel and the third panel is pivotally attached to the second panel at an edge of each panel. A posterior edge of the first panel is attached to a corner post of an end of the enclosed railcar by hinges that are positioned externally to the enclosed railcar.

Abstract: A rail car extension system including a first main rail section, a second main rail section and a plurality of bow structures. The first main rail section is mounted with respect to an upper surface of the first side wall. The first main rail section includes a first upper rail portion and a first lower rail portion that extends from the first upper rail portion. The second main rail section is mounted with respect to an upper surface of the second side wall. The second main rail section includes a second upper rail portion and a second lower rail portion that extends from the second upper rail portion. The plurality of bow structures are each attached to and extend between the first main rail section and the second main rail section.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a railcar having an enclosing superstructure which is capable of accommodating large vehicles such as semi-trucks is disclosed. The method includes the preparation of a previously used railcar or a railcar originally manufactured for another purpose and the subsequent attachment of a preferably widened superstructure applied thereto. Usable space and dimensions within the superstructure enclosure are maximized by the use of shallow weight bearing side structures, large top chords, stabilizing door headers, an extension of the railcar deck and thin end doors. Railcar accessories are accommodated within the interior of the superstructure such that minimal useful space is used.

Abstract: A gondola rail car for hauling wood chips and the like having a pair of side walls, an end wall, a floor, an open end and an open top. A door assembly is pivotally mounted for swinging movement adjacent the open end. A ledge is provided to enhance access by an unloading vehicle. The car may be constructed from an existing box car.

Abstract: A rack for a truck bed which includes separate front and side assemblies, each assembly utilizing a lower frame having dowels for selective insertion into openings into truck bed edges or permanent sidewalls. A first rack member is pivotally attached to each frame of each respective assembly by hinges which are spring biased to cause the first respective rack member to be in folded position wherein the respective first rack member is disposed beside the respective frame and is movable to an extended position wherein the respective first rack member is disposed about the respective frame member.

Abstract: A side extension for increasing the volumetric capacity of a vehicle body includes an elongate wall, a first flange extending longitudinally of the wall and bent inwardly of the body from the wall along a bottom edge of the wall and at a sloped incline to the wall, and a second flange bent from the edge of the first flange and extending backward toward the wall. The second flange is fastened to a flange on the vehicle body which extends inwardly of the body. The first and second flanges substantially define a "V" in cross section increasing the strength of the side extension walls, maximizing the capacity of the vehicle body and preventing retention of material carried by the vehicle body at the junction between the side extensions and the vehicle body.

Abstract: Disclosed is a mounting connection for connecting side stakes of open top type rail cars such as gondolas and hoppers to the underframe of the rail car. The side stakes, which reinforce and support the side walls of the open top rail cars, are mounted to the underframe of the rail car by a tie strap rigidly connected to the underframe. The tie strap is pivotably mounted to the side stake by a transverse pin which allows the side stake to flex or pivot very slightly with respect to the underframe when forces are applied to the upper end of the side stake such as during loading thereby eliminating secondary bending moments and fracture at the junction of the underframe and the side stake.

Abstract: A diesel-engined rail shunting locomotive is provided which combines a very high level of noise insulation with excellent accessibility to the engine and associated apparatus. The locomotive is adapted for remote control by radio, and also has at least one cab for the operator. The engine and associated apparatus are covered by a noise insulating rectangular box-shaped hood which is liftable as a single unit by means of power-operated lifting means provided on the locomotive. The lifting means may be screw jacks located in the four corners of the hood. The cab has an end wall slightly spaced from adjacent the end wall of the hood, to simplify construction and improve sound insulation.