Abstract: A step-down power transfer device for providing a dropped drive line in a front engine and rear drive vehicle. The step-down power transfer device is preferably chain or gear driven. A preferred vehicle includes a power train having a longitudinally mounted front engine, a step-down power transfer device, a single segment drive shaft, a half-shaft differential, swing axles and geared reduction wheel end drives. The vehicle can have an exceptionally low, i.e., 16 to 18 inches, load floor that is flat at least between the step-down power transfer device and the differential. The resultant vehicle has many parts in common with popular traditional front engine/rear drive trucks. Combining the power train described above with a low profile rear suspension provides added low load floor benefits.

Abstract: A towable trailer has a load floor supported by air springs on a torsion box suspension system. The load floor consists of a plurality of preformed panels comprised of a plate section and a plurality of I beam members. Adjacent panels are interconnected with a tab and slot structure and then secured as a unit by a pair of angle beam side rails. The suspension system includes a pair of spaced parallel transverse beams extending between and secured to a pair of trailing arms which are pivotally mounted on brace members secured to the underside of the load floor and the front of the trailer. A pair of plates are secured to respective ends of the transverse beams adjacent the trailing arms. Cross beam members are positioned between and secured to the plates and the transverse beams. The trailer wheel are supported on wheel support arms which are secured to and extend upwardly from each trailing arm to position the center of each wheel above the load floor of the trailer.