With Ground Traversing Means Patents (Class 269/17)
  • Patent number: 5486014
    Abstract: A dolly includes an elongated rigid support member for receiving a lower end portion of a panel-shaped support leg of an upright piano. The support member is formed by an elongated bottom wall and a pair of side walls rigidly connected along opposite longitudinal side edges of the bottom wall and extending upwardly therefrom so as to define an elongated channel extending between the spaced side walls and above the bottom wall of the support member. The channel is open along its upper end to receive the lower end portion of the support leg of the upright piano. The dolly also includes a pair of carriages supporting the opposite ends of the support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1996
    Inventor: Darald F. Hough
  • Patent number: 5383653
    Abstract: An apparatus for repairing articles, such as jet skis, and including a pair of rings which are disposed in a parallel, spaced relation and connected together by a group of braces of adjustable length. Each ring is provided with a pair of flats, and the flats on one ring are oriented with the flats on the other ring. A support member extends generally chordwise across each ring, and is provided with a recess or cradle, and the ends of the water ski are received within the respective recesses. A clamping member, such as a rachet take-up belt, is associated with each ring and clamps the end of the jet ski against the respective support member. The jet ski in an upright condition is clamped to the respective support members and the rings are then manually rotated to invert the jet ski and enable the lower surfaces of the ski to be worked on. Engagement of the flats with the supporting surface maintains the rings in a position such that the jet ski is upright or inverted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1995
    Inventor: Andrew G. Stuck
  • Patent number: 5383652
    Abstract: An engine mounting apparatus, particularly suitable for a large aircraft engine, has a front member able to receive and support a front engine portion separated from the rear engine portion which can be loaded on to and supported by a transportable stand. The support framework enables the front engine portion to be inverted and loaded on to a pallet for transportation purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1995
    Assignee: Air New Zealand Limited
    Inventor: Henricus F. G. M. Van Den Berg
  • Patent number: 5373593
    Abstract: A hand cart for lifting, transporting and installing toilets, including a wheeled base and frame designed to straddle a toilet. The lifting member includes a hand operated screw jack and ball engaging grapples and a rim clamp to securely hold the toilet on the cart during the lifting and transporting process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 20, 1994
    Inventors: John R. Decky, Louis F. Atzel
  • Patent number: 5356164
    Abstract: An apparatus for supporting a seamless gutter as it is being formed has a frame with two clamps longitudinally spaced apart in the direction of travel of the gutter and two ground engagement wheels longitudinally positioned between the clamps and laterally positioned on opposite sides of the gutter so as to support the gutter on the ground as the apparatus travels with the gutter being formed. Preferably, the apparatus is foldable to a collapsed storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1994
    Inventor: Chase E. Miller
  • Patent number: 5335923
    Abstract: A dolly specifically adapted to carry a snow plow blade having a mounting yoke and straight lower edge has a longitudinal beam elongated between front and rear extremities, a transverse beam orthogonally attached to the longitudinal beam and having an upwardly directed channel for receiving the straight lower edge of the plow blade, and a cross bar for supporting the mounting yoke. The cross bar is mounted atop a jack device which controls the elevation of the cross bar. Monodirectionally rotatable wheels are mounted beneath the extremities of the longitudinal beam. Omnidirectionally rotatable wheels are mounted beneath the extremities of the transverse beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1994
    Inventors: John M. Langenback, Glenn L. Langenback
  • Patent number: 5328161
    Abstract: An apparatus for repairing articles, such as jet skis, and including a pair of rings which are disposed in a parallel, spaced relation and connected together by a group of braces of adjustable length. Each ring is provided with a pair of flats, and the flats on one ring are oriented with the flats on the other ring. A support member extends generally chordwise across each ring, and is provided with a recess or cradle, and the ends of the water ski are received within the respective recesses. A clamping member, such as a rachet take-up belt, is associated with each ring and clamps the end of the jet ski against the respective support member. The jet ski in an upright condition is clamped to the respective support members and the rings are then manually rotated to invert the jet ski and enable the lower surfaces of the ski to be worked on. Engagement of the flats with the supporting surface maintains the rings in a position such that the jet ski is upright or inverted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1994
    Inventor: Andrew G. Stuck
  • Patent number: 5324005
    Abstract: Lift attachment devices are described for detachably connecting an item to be lifted (e.g., a lawn mower) to lift apparatus (e.g., the type which includes an elevatable tool bar). The attachment devices each include a hanger for attaching the device to the tool bar and a clamp to detachably connect to the item to be lifted. The clamp support can be rotated relative to the hanger and then selectively locked in a desired position. The attachment devices enable a variety of items to be elevated by a conventional lift so that servicing and repair of the items can be performed efficiently. Lift apparatus is also described for connecting an item to be lifted to an elevatable tool bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1994
    Assignee: Beattie Incorporated
    Inventors: John M. Beattie, Jimmie D. Sinden
  • Patent number: 5316277
    Abstract: A portable vise is disclosed including a beam along which a hydraulic cylinder assembly is positionable to adapt the vise to a wide range of work pieces. The hydraulic cylinder assembly includes a carrier slidably engaged with a beam flange and which is lockably engageable to the beam during a clamping operation. A lock or stop includes a pair of leg members insertable within a selected pair of beam defined apertures. The cylinder assembly includes a lever operated pump with a self-contained fluid reservoir. The beam is supported on a turntable in turn carried by a pedestal having a wheel equipped base. For clamping articles with curved surfaces, a pair of supplemental jaw plates are provided, each having an irregular clamping surface to assure positive engagement with a clamped article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1994
    Inventor: Willie E. Banks
  • Patent number: 5308094
    Abstract: A transport apparatus is arranged to include a platform pivotally mounted relative to and within the legs of a table structure, whereupon the platform includes lever apparatus to cantilever the platform and project wheel members of the platform to engagement to an underlying support surface to permit rolling support of the table structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 3, 1994
    Inventors: Clyde C. McWhorter, Lynne C. McWhorter
  • Patent number: 5299659
    Abstract: A bed transporting apparatus comprised of a lower telescopic movable frame supported on unidirectional casters. A vertical frame is secured to the lower movable frame and has a vertically displaceable bed supporting frame guidingly secured thereto. An hydraulic piston displaces the bed supporting frame in a vertical plane. The piston is operated by a hydraulic oil pumping lever and a valve controls the operation of the piston. The bed supporting displaceable frame has lower bed support arms to supportingly engage a side member of a bed and is further provided with an upper retractable guided connecting strap which is engageable with an opposed side member of the bed. The strap is wound about a drum which, when actuated, causes the bed to tilt along its side against the bed supporting frame and be held secured thereagainst. An extendible section of the lower telescopic frame is retracted to provide for the passage of the transporting apparatus and the bed held thereon through door openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1994
    Inventors: Roger Imbeault, Yves Lacoursiere
  • Patent number: 5297915
    Abstract: A jack for lifting and moving heavy truck parts, such as clutch assemblies and fly wheels. A hydraulic cylinder assembly is mounted on a wheeled frame for pivotal movement through an arc of greater than 90 degrees so that an object secured to the end of the rod of the cylinder can be moved from a horizontal position, where it rests low in the frame, to a vertical position tilted slightly forward for easy placement or removal of the object under the truck. When the cylinder is in the vertical position and the rod is slightly extended, the object may be rotated in a horizontal plane which assists in positioning the object under the truck. Yet, means is included for limiting the range of such rotation when the rod is completely retracted so that while the object is being lifted up or down it will not swing around the rod and fall off of the apparatus. While secured to the end of the rod of the first cylinder, the object may be rotated in a plane parallel to the axis of the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 29, 1994
    Inventor: Francis L. Bach
  • Patent number: 5294098
    Abstract: An apparatus for mounting a car door by a single mechanic is provided. The apparatus supports a car door to be mounted on a vehicle on a base. Arms connected to the base support the door upon the base. The apparatus is mounted upon a floor jack or an equivalent elevating device to effect chances in vertical orientation of the apparatus. The elements used to mount the apparatus on the elevating device also allow pivoting of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1994
    Inventor: Douglas M. Bundy
  • Patent number: 5269501
    Abstract: A vehicle and vehicle parts transportation system used for moving, positioning and manipulating a vehicle and vehicle parts primarily when a vehicle is damaged or in the need of repairs. The system consists of a power module having interchangeable legs and parts that allow the power module to be reconfigured as to its height, width and length and various tool modules. The power module becomes a different tool as required or desired by the operator by simply adding or removing a tool module. Each specific tool module provides the necessary lifting and motive force apparatus and means for maneuvering the tool module for performing the necessary operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1993
    Assignee: Hein-Werner Corporation
    Inventors: Reinald D. Liegel, James Ballard, James C. Graham, Craig A. Wisner, Jeffrey V. Russell
  • Patent number: 5259602
    Abstract: A transmission stand for supporting front wheel drive transmissions. The transmission stand comprises a framework having a head portion, a base portion and at least two legs projecting forward from the base portion for stabilizing the transmission stand when the transmission stand is upright. Each of the legs includes a distal tip which acts as a fulcrum when the transmission stand is rotated from a generally horizontal position to an upright position and vice versa. The transmission stand further comprises attachment device pivotally mounted to the head portion of the framework, and pivotally adjustable about a pivot axis from a position generally forward of the head portion to a position generally on top of the head portion. The attachment device further includes support for supporting the bell housing of a transmission. According to a preferred embodiment, the support for the bell housing is rotatably mounted on the attachment device such that the support can rotate about a rotation axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1993
    Inventor: Donald D. Rogos
  • Patent number: 5259601
    Abstract: A worktable and particularly a worktable and viceclamp of general utility for accomplishing a variety of tasks such as repair and service of equipment and tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1993
    Inventor: Roger G. Vass
  • Patent number: 5244221
    Abstract: A multi-use hand truck or dolly apparatus and more particularly, a hand truck useable in the commercial building construction industry. It is capable of being used in both a vertical mode as well as a horizontal mode. When used in its vertical mode, it is capable of carrying up to five doors or other large objects. When used in its horizontal mode, it serves as a sturdy planar work support surface and permits a workman to perform required tasks thereon. Additonally, the apparatus can be joined with another like apparatus and present a much larger horizontal planar work surface. The apparatus includes telescopic frame members which permit accommodation of various length loads. Further, a plurality of swivel casters are provided which allow full rotational movement of the apparatus when used in its horizontal mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1993
    Inventor: John S. Ward
  • Patent number: 5226656
    Abstract: A movable dolly or carrier for transporting doors, windows, or other construction panels. A wheeled base includes panel support members and a reversibly attached storage compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1993
    Inventor: Donald G. Mayer
  • Patent number: 5205571
    Abstract: A cart apparatus for lifting and moving aircraft chair units is described. The cart comprises a U-shaped frame with two sets of swivel-mounted casters on the bottom of the frame for mobility. A pair of upright support tube members with angle support members at their ends extend above the frame to support the rear stretcher bar of the chair unit. The baggage bar of the chair unit is held in place by a stop at the end of each leg of the U-shaped frame. A releasable retaining device for holding the baggage bar against the stop is also provided. The cart enables a single person to easily place the chair unit on the cart and move the cart and chair unit from place to place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1993
    Inventors: Allen J. Geier, George F. Engebrecht
  • Patent number: 5203065
    Abstract: A toilet fixture installation apparatus provides a compact structure for the support, movement, and alignment of toilet bowl fixtures during their installation. The inventive apparatus includes a three-wheeled base structure having a pair of lower frame members connected by a crossmember and defining a base plane, a fixed vertical mast portion carrying a sliding mast elevated by a jack member, a fixed horizontal boom extending from the sliding mast in the direction of the lower frame members, a fixed shoe assembly at the end of the fixed horizontal boom and bearing an outwardly-extending toilet bowl gripping member, an adjustable shoe slidably mounted and selectively fixed on the fixed horizontal boom bearing a toilet bowl gripping member extending in the opposite direction from the fixed shoe toilet bowl gripping member, this adjustable shoe also being vertically adjustable relative to the fixed shoe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Inventor: Morris P. Peters
  • Patent number: 5190265
    Abstract: A service tool is provided for removal and replacement of vehicle parts. The service tool comprises a base, a lift arm mechanism including a base end in a distal end, the base end being pivotally mounted to the base. A jack is mounted to the base and the lift arm mechanism for pivotally moving the lift arm mechanism to adjust height of the distal end. A vehicle part adaptor is included for receiving a vehicle part to be removed or replaced. A ball and socket joint mounts the vehicle part adaptor to the lift arm mechanism distal end for allowing rotary motion of the vehicle part adaptor relative to the distal end in every direction and adjustable screws adjustably limit movement of the vehicle part adaptor to control attitude of the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1993
    Assignee: OTC Division of SPX Corporation
    Inventors: Gerald E. Barry, Larry W. Betcher, C. P. Emerson
  • Patent number: 5184653
    Abstract: Disclosed is a device for transporting and draining a toilet fixture comprising a generally hollow body containing a water reservoir. The body has a top panel with a toilet mount, a bottom panel with locking casters, a carrying handle, and a drain. Securing bolts are provided for anchoring the toilet to the toilet mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1993
    Inventor: Danny Lacy
  • Patent number: 5181821
    Abstract: A brake drum support apparatus for use with a vehicle having a brake drum and for supporting the brake drum as the brake drum is removed from the vehicle. The brake drum support apparatus includes a base for resting on a support surface; a drum cradle for cradling the brake drum; and a drum cradle brace structure for attaching the drum cradle to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1993
    Inventor: Connie L. King, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5167057
    Abstract: A puller is vertically movably mounted on a transport cart and includes a base assembly having at least a pair of puller jaws pivotally mounted thereto. The puller jaws are pivotally moved relative to the base assembly by means of a cam ring which is axially moved with respect to the base assembly by means of a plurality of hydraulic cylinders connected thereto. A hydraulic ram is mounted in the base assembly and has a ram point adapted to engage the end of the shaft upon which the gear is mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1992
    Inventor: Dean S. Somerville
  • Patent number: 5160125
    Abstract: Disclosed is an automotive transmission utility stand which comprises a base, an upright stanchion connected to the base, and a bracket attached to the upper portion of the stanchion and which bracket having a means to be removably attached to the rear mount of a transmission. Further this invention can be equipped with an output shaft retainer which adjustably mounts on the stanchion and which is also horizontally adjustable outwardly over the base to match different transmission sizes. Even further, the invention can be equipped with means for tilting the stand to adjust the center of gravity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1992
    Inventor: Bobby L. Jenkins
  • Patent number: 5143507
    Abstract: A wheel handling apparatus has an upright frame movably supporting a carrier connected to a wheel holder and a power unit for operating the wheel holder. A winch mounted on the carrier is used to move the carrier along the frame. The wheel holder has a body rotatably mounted on the carrier and a cone head connected to the power unit. The body supports arms that are moved into engagement with a wheel when the head is moved by the power unit into the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1992
    Assignee: Vix Design Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald E. Haugen, David T. Murphy
  • Patent number: 5141211
    Abstract: A universal work station apparatus has a base with a vertically extending post attached thereto. The base has four legs attached thereto and each leg may have a wheel or roller thereon and at least two of the legs have a telescoping extension. Each of the legs can be rotated and positioned in different predetermined positions to accommodate different work loads attached to the work station. The four legs generally extend an equal distance in four directions but the legs can be repositioned and telescoped for a second position for supporting large elongated work pieces. A plurality of interchangeable work support attachments are attached to the vertical post. In addition, tool attachment trays are provided along with one tray with a hardware cloth bottom can be positioned for cleaning tools and workpieces placed thereon. A universal work mounting attachment allows the attachment of a large number of small engines, transmissions, and other pieces of work.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1992
    Inventor: Joseph E. Adams, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5139233
    Abstract: A lift jack adaptor for cradling a heavy irregularly shaped object such as an automotive transmission includes a rigid base for mounting to a lift jack and pairs of laterally spaced arms extending up from the base, the upper ends of those arms being terminated by flanges for engaging the underside of the object cradled in the adaptor. These flanges are fastened to the object and positively connect the object to the adaptor so that one can raise and lower the object using the jack and repair the object in relative safety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1992
    Inventor: Arthur Goss
  • Patent number: 5135205
    Abstract: A tool to assist a single worker of a car body reblocking workshop in installing a door or the like vehicle body part on a vehicle. The tool includes a wheeled base frame supporting three upright posts. Each vertical post carries a transverse horizontal arm. The two opposite end arms form support arms to support the bottom edge of the car door in upright position. The intermediate or body part stabilizing arm endwisely carries a discoid plate applied against the car body part, and from which project two opposite belts hooked at their outer ends to the opposite lateral side edges of the body part. Each support arm is controlled in elevation by an independent motor, while the stabilizing arm can be adjusted vertically and horizontally. Horizontal positioning is controlled along an azimuthal axis and can also pivot vertically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1992
    Inventor: Francois Bedard
  • Patent number: 5127638
    Abstract: An apparatus which is mountable on a mechanic's dolly or fork lift includes a support plate which is bolted to the studs of a vehicle wheel hub for removing, repairing and/or replacing a vehicle wheel hub. The apparatus is fitted with adjustable tubular sockets for receiving varying spaced lift forks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1992
    Inventor: Cloyce G. Kent
  • Patent number: 5123636
    Abstract: The present invention is a low-contaminate work surface for processing semiconductor grade silicon. The work surface is comprised of a parallel array of silicon elements forming a planar surface. The silicon elements are of comparable purity with the semiconductor grade silicon to be process, thus minimizing contact contamination. In an additional embodiment of the present invention, the low-contaminate work surface is part of a work station which provides for initial screening and sizing of the semiconductor grade silicon being processed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1992
    Assignee: Dow Corning Corporation
    Inventors: Richard C. Dumler, Matthew J. Stavely
  • Patent number: 5123803
    Abstract: A stern drive handling device includes a wheeled lower support frame and an extensible upper support frame telescopically mounted on the lower support frame. A horizontally disposed hollow sleeve is secured to the upper end of the upper support frame and a screw jack is provided for adjusting the height of the sleeve relative to the lower support frame. A support bracket assembly is pivotally mounted in the sleeve for swinging movement about a horizontal axis and a pair of pivoted clamps adapted to engage the cavitation plates on the housing of a stern drive unit are pivotally mounted on the support bracket assembly for pivotal adjusting movement about a second horizontal axis orthogonal to the first horizontal axis. The clamps may be secured in any desired pivoted position and limit stops are provided to limit the pivoting movement of the clamps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1992
    Inventor: George F. Crabtree
  • Patent number: 5116264
    Abstract: A mobile positionable service bench 20 comprising of a square U-configured base 22 and a vertical mast structure 56 mounted upright on a square U-configured base 22. A winch 68 mounted on vertical mast structure 56 and a cable 66 connected thereto and to the elevator assembly 75 is operable to raise and lower tool tray 105. Elevator assembly 75 is equipped with dollies 78a, 79a, 80a and 81a to maintain alignment and facilitate travel and load carrying capabilities. Tray support arms 97 will pivotally mount to elevator assembly 75 and provide lateral positioning capabilities of tool tray 105. Light bracket 121 on tool tray 105 will accept the stem base of light fixture 123 to illuminate the work area. Air chucks 161a, 161b, 161c and 161d and electric outlet box 152a, 152b, 152 c, and 152d provide outlets for either pneumatic or electrical tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1992
    Inventors: LeRoy J. Wiederrich, Robert G. Butler
  • Patent number: 5051056
    Abstract: An apparatus for suspending and rotating a boat about its longitudinal axis in either direction, including a pair of movable and adjustable support frames having connecting arms which are designed to rotatably engage the support eyes (also known as ski tow eyes, wench eyes or mooring eyes) on the rear and front ends of the boat. The rear support frame includes a rotatable shaft upon which the rear end connecting arms are rigidly mounted so as to be capable of rotating the boat about its longitudinal axis. The rear support frame also includes a base frame with a pair of extensible legs which are adjustable to support and balance varying sizes of boats. Each support frame includes a hoist for causing vertical movement of the connecting arms which support the boat. The front end support frame is constructed so as to define a passageway therethrough to facilitate removal of the boat trailer upon which the boat rests, once the boat is hoisted therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1991
    Assignee: G. F. Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert R. Gibbons, Dennis Fried
  • Patent number: 5009406
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for removing a vehicle door and replacing it by a single operator. The apparatus includes a base having two vertically adjustable supports and a set of casters for moving the apparatus along the floor. The vertically adjustable supports engage the vehicle door at its lower edge to support it. A vertically extending frame rests against one side of the door. The frame is adjustable along the base to accommodate doors of varying widths. A strap holds the door against the frame. Once the vehicle door is secured to the apparatus it can be removed from the vehicle and rolled away. The door is secured in a fixed position on the apparatus, such that it will remain in substantially the same position it was when it was removed from the vehicle, thus, making it easy to connect the door back on the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1991
    Inventor: Gregory J. McDermott
  • Patent number: 4978132
    Abstract: A pivotable hand truck for supporting or installing a heavy object is provided comprising an L-shaped structure, a pair of wheels secured to the L-shaped structure about which the structure may be pivoted between horizontal and vertical positions, and lifting means carried by the structure adapted to vertically adjust the object to a selected height above the floor surface. The lifting means is defined by a floor-engaging pedal affixed to the L-shaped structure, height-adjusting members carried by the structure, and activating means for activating the height-adjusting members when the pedal is moved between a non-operational position and an operational position. The activating means is defined by a rod member secured to the apparatus which engages the height-adjusting members, and coupling means mechanically coupling the rod member to the pedal. The coupling means is defined by a plurality of interconnecting lever arms, or, alternatively, a cable-and-pulley mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1990
    Inventors: P. Henry Wilson, William A. Kelso
  • Patent number: 4953836
    Abstract: Work holder apparatus for clamping large workpieces in position to carry out finishing operations comprising a base support unit, spaced parallel upright support members disposed thereon and extending upwardly to define a generally channel-shaped opening for insertion of a workpiece in the channel, a movable clamping member mounted on one of the support members including a workpiece-engaging surface in facing relation to the other of the support members, and clamping control means for horizontally advancing the clamp member toward and away from the other of the frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 4, 1990
    Inventor: Mark Starck
  • Patent number: 4932639
    Abstract: An apparatus supports automobile body parts for removal, installation or servicing. The apparatus includes a T-shaped dolly support and a vertical standard on which a support unit slides. The support unit includes a cross arm with cradles at its opposite ends for engaging under a body part to be handled and a head above the cradle which carries a clamp for securing a hook-carrying webbing strap to the support unit. A resilient bumper strip extends from the head to the cross arm. The position of the support unit is adjusted along the standard with a screw jack positioned behind the standard. The strap and hook assembly engages a part to be handled and draws it against the resilient bumper strip providing a stable support for the part. The cross arm is preferably tiltable from one side to the other. The apparatus can be used in conjunction with a wheel well adapter for supporting fenders and truck boxes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 12, 1990
    Assignee: TAC Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventor: Norm Fjellstrom
  • Patent number: 4930966
    Abstract: A tire dismantling and setting device includes a roller holder for loading or holding tires thereon, an axle retainer pre-fixed on a car axle, a driving bolt rotatably secured on the roller holder, and a pair of tire fasteners fastening the tires on the roller holder, whereby upon a clockwise rotation of the driving bolt to urge the bolt coupled with the axle retainer against the car axle, the holder and the fastened tires can be dismantled conveniently and safely. When rotating the driving bolt counter-clockwise, the bracket, the tire fastener and the fastened tires are pushed rearwardly to be mounted on a car axle conveniently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 5, 1990
    Inventor: Kuo-Feng Chien
  • Patent number: 4920628
    Abstract: Railroad car repair or servicing method using a fork lift of the type having ascending and decending degrees of movement that is equipped with an attachment for supporting a railroad car brake tread unit in which a replacement said brake tread unit is attached to the railroad car by advantageously using said ascending and descending fork movements to thereby obviate prior art possible back-injuring procedures required of the repair shop employees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 1, 1990
    Inventors: James Gennodie, John Di Domenico
  • Patent number: 4913614
    Abstract: A unique piano moving apparatus is provided which may be operated to safely and efficiently move a grand piano by one or two individuals of average physical ability. A keyboard and jack assembly having a first support portion is mutually spaced from and intersecured to an opposing end jack assembly having a second support portion. The support portions are respectively adapted to underlie and support the key board and front end portions of a grand piano. The keyboard and jack and oppasing end jack assemblies are operable to lift the piano to a position in which it may be tilted on its side while still being supported by the piano moving apparatus. The tilted piano may then be slid off the moving apparatus onto a movable platform which may then be conveniently rolled to and loaded onto a waiting transport trailer. A winch device may be used to pull the movable platform and piano into the transport trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 3, 1990
    Inventor: Patrick L. O'Rarden
  • Patent number: 4901989
    Abstract: An appliance tilt stand for releasably supporting a washing machine or other appliance in a forwardly tilted, secure position during servicing, comprises a base configured to be disposed on a floor surface and slid underneath an appliance from the front of the appliance to a point determined by the abutment of a stop member mounted on the stand base with the inside lower front frame of the appliance. The base also mounts, a spaced distance rearwardly of the stop member, an elongated, telescoping pivotal support arm mounting a pad member arranged to engage and support the front wall of an appliance tilted forwardly thereagainst, the arm also mounting an appliance-engaging arm configured to engage the top frame of an appliance and positively and securely lock the appliance in tilted position on the stand. Rollers are preferably also included on the base of the stand to permit the appliance repair tilt stand to serve also as an appliance dolly during servicing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1990
    Inventor: Richard J. Stellato
  • Patent number: 4848717
    Abstract: An internal combustion engine may be tested by connecting a flexible inlet conduit leading from a coolant supply source to a coolant inlet provided on the engine. A flexible outlet conduit is connected to lead from a drain to a coolant outlet provided on the engine. A pressure gauge is mounted in fluid communication with a heater hose port provided on the engine. Coolant continuously flows from the coolant supply source through the inlet conduit, engine and outlet conduit to the drain. A pressure regulating valve in the inlet conduit is adjusted to provide the correct coolant pressure into the engine. The exterior of the engine is inspected for coolant leaks. A stand may be used to support an internal combustion during the test. The stand embodies a generally T-shaped frame that is rollingly supported above a support surface and supports a muffler to deaden the noise of the engine after it has been started.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1989
    Inventor: Fred Bevill
  • Patent number: 4846451
    Abstract: A portable engine removal structure having integral frame and supporting members for holding the transaxle, engine, suspension and transmission systems as a unitary structure for facile removal from the vehicle and replacement therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1989
    Inventor: Donald M. Squier
  • Patent number: 4841852
    Abstract: A mobile apparatus having utility in the construction of roof trusses at a job site. An elongate trailer frame is mounted to a wheel and axle assembly and is transportable on public highways by towing. A jig assembly supported by the frame is formed primary of uni-strut members and has a first elongate fixed position side rail and a second parallel but movable jig support rail. Plural transversely disposed jig members are slidably mounted for lateral movement along the extent of the first and second side rails of the jig assembly. A clinching device is mounted for longitudinal movement along the extent of the jig assembly by an overhead cantilevered track support structure. The jig assembly is longitudinally extendable, and the overhead track support member has a hingedly mounted auxiliary portion that may be deployed so that the clincher device can reach even the extended portion of the jig assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1989
    Inventors: Jim Kubiak, S. R. Bliven
  • Patent number: 4838199
    Abstract: A machine is provided, including a retaining and rotating device, to assist in two-side painting of body parts of motor vehicles. The device is attached to a round support tube, which is height adjustably connected at right angles to a baseframe. The retaining and rotating device includes members rotatable about the horizontal axis which retain the body part and allow rotation thereof for two-sided painting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1989
    Inventor: Martin Weber
  • Patent number: 4838530
    Abstract: Apparatus for handling large heavy components of motor vehicles includes a movable cart having a top planar surface member and a hydraulic lift mounted to the cart. The hydraulic lift carries on the upper end portion of the smallest piston a head apparatus which includes a plurality of movable and adjustable arms with an angle member on one end of each arm. The head apparatus is adjustable to engage the contour of the component to be handled.An adapter is mountable on the piston rod for use in handling a fuel tank containing fuel when work thereon is necessary.Fixed to one end of the cart are supports for a sleeve that can pivot through 360 degrees. The cart also carries a tank into which fluids flow from said motor vehicle and the component.The component to be handled, when lowered to the top planar surface, is maneuvered to a position and secured by an arcuate member that is mounted to a shaft slidable in the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1989
    Inventors: Joseph A. Chyba, William M. Kihlmire, Theodore J. Blackburn
  • Patent number: 4830335
    Abstract: A portable jack comprising a wheeled base and a support structure pivotably attached to the base. The support structure is pivotable from a lowered position in which the support structure is essentially co-planar with the plane of the base to an upright position in which the support structure is essentially perpendicular to the base. The support structure comprises spaced parallel guide members having hinged ends connected to the base to allow pivoting of the support structure. A locking device is provided to lock the support structure in an upright position. The support structure uses a carriage member which moves slidably along the guide members to support an article to be lifted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1989
    Inventor: John J. Schlitt
  • Patent number: 4810151
    Abstract: A door transporting and mounting machine is disclosed for transporting an mounting a door relative to a complementary door frame. The machine includes a wheeled supporting frame for portably transporting a door to a selected door frame site. A generally vertically extending column extends upwardly from the supporting frame and includes a carriage mounted on the column for movement between lower and upper positions. Door gripping arms are pivotally mounted on the movable carriage for re-positioning the door between a horizontal transporting position and a vertical mounting position. When the machine is located at a complementary door frame, the movable carriage, with associated door gripping arms, moves the door to properly aligned position for mounting the door relative to its complementary door frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 7, 1989
    Inventor: R. Garland Shern
  • Patent number: 4799656
    Abstract: A tractor splitter stand having a frame which articulates in order to provide for vertical adjustment of holes in an upright support with respect to tractor engagement holes is shown and described. Vertical adjustment is provided by a screw which controls the frame articulation, and by adjustment of side support members with respect to vertical extensions of the articulating frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1989
    Inventor: Peter Puskarich