Abstract: A system for diffusing exhaust gases and controlling and suppressing backfire in an industrial truck is disclosed. Exhaust gases from the truck engine are first passed through a spark arresting muffler to remove hot, solid particles from the gas stream. The gases are then routed to a diffuser which is mounted on the truck's overhead guard. The diffuser contains a venturi and an air intake manifold to mix outside air with the gas stream and complete the ignition of unburned backfire gases. The diffuser includes a transverse diffusion chamber for substantially containing and burning backfires therein and a series of thin exit pipes for dispersing the gases and quenching exiting flames produced by the backfires within the chamber.

Abstract: An industrial trailer having a collapsible gooseneck which forms a ramp over which equipment may be loaded onto the trailer is disclosed. Hydraulic cylinders contained within the bed of the trailer control the raising and lowering of the gooseneck. A method is also disclosed whereby operation of the gooseneck while attached to the tractor can be used to facilitate changing of the tires on both the tractor and the trailer itself.

Abstract: An automotive engine ignition system which prevents either deliberate or accidental backfire when the ignition switch is shut off is disclosed. Means for automatically shutting off fuel to the carburetor and for limiting distributor timing is also disclosed.

Abstract: A hydraulic control arrangement for the lifting and lowering of loads is disclosed. The system is illustrated in an industrial truck and includes a multiple element control valve with timing circuitry to eliminate unwanted transient pressure surges during valve actuation. Series-parallel oil flow paths are provided for directing and controlling oil from the load lifting cylinder to the oil reservoir when the load is being lowered.

Abstract: A load carrying fork for use with an industrial truck is disclosed. The fork is of generally L-shaped configuration and has a thickened tapered outside heel section. The inside intersect of the vertical and horizontal shank of the fork defines an undercut of relatively large radius. The longitudinal axis of the undercut, which is transverse to the longitudinal axis of the vertical and horizontal shanks, is slightly concave.