Abstract: An apparatus for removing, installing and/or servicing a vehicular component, such as a wheel/tyre, a motor or the like, particularly for large mining and/or earthmoving equipment. The apparatus includes a carrier device (100) and a component handling device (200). The carrier device (100) enables the apparatus to be moved over a substrate surface, and is preferably a U-shaped chassis having a pair of outwardly extending arms (140), and at least three wheels (120,130). The component handling device (200) is removably coupled to the carrier device (100). The component handling device (200) includes a frame (270) of complementary shape to the chassis to support the lower portion of the vehicular component, and, a support element (210). At least one retaining arm (220) extends from the support element (210) to provide support to an upper end of the vehicular component.

Abstract: A jig assembly which includes a universal joint to enable three-dimensional movement of a workpiece or handling device attached thereto. The assembly is particularly useful for enabling translation and rotational movement of heavy machinery and components for servicing and maintenance. The jig assembly may comprise one or more ball joints which may be moved by actuators such as hydraulic cylinder. The assembly may be provided on its own movable frame, or it may be attached to a front end of a loader.

Abstract: An apparatus for removing, installing and/or servicing a vehicular component, such as a wheel/tyre, a motor or the like, particularly for large mining and/or earthmoving equipment. The apparatus includes a carrier device (100) and a component handling device (200). The carrier device (100) enables the apparatus to be moved over a substrate surface, and is preferably a U-shaped chassis having a pair of outwardly extending arms (140), and at least three wheels (120,130). The component handling device (200) is removably coupled to the carrier device (100). The component handling device (200) includes a frame (270) of complementary shape to the chassis to support the lower portion of the vehicular component, and, a support element (210). At least one retaining arm (220) extends from the support element (210) to provide support to an upper end of the vehicular component.

Abstract: A device for changing a vehicular component on a first vehicle. The device includes a frame for releasably receiving a vehicular component. The frame is configured to facilitate the frame being positioned in a component changing position with respect to the first vehicle. The device also includes a first actuator for moving the frame to a first position and a second position to thereby mount the vehicular component on the first vehicle or receive the vehicular component from the first vehicle.

Abstract: An access device for providing access between a lower substrate surface and an upper substrate surface. The access device includes upper and lower articulated ladder members. A first end of the upper member is pivotally connected to or near the upper surface. A second end of the lower member is pivotally connected to the second end of the upper member, such that the lower ladder member is rotatable 180° relative to the upper member. In the storage position, the ladder members are folded in a substantially compact upright disposition, while, in the access position, the members are aligned and extend downwardly and outwardly.

Abstract: An article handling apparatus for gripping and moving an article such as a large tire or other vehicular component of a mining, earthmoving or like vehicle. The article handling apparatus includes a base frame for movement of the apparatus over a substrate surface, and a handling frame for gripping the article, such as a tire. The apparatus has a pair of moveable arm members on the base frame, and a pair of moveable arm members on the handling frame. The apparatus can be compactly stored by contraction of the arms, can be manipulated through tight spaces, and is extremely stable while handling large and heavy articles.

Abstract: A tow hitch assembly for attachment to a towing vehicle. The tow hitch assembly includes a tow hitch arm, attachment means, positioning means and lifting means.

Abstract: A device and method for removing or installing a vehicular component, such as a transmission or differential, from a vehicle. The device (1) includes a trolley (2) having an actuation means (3) thereon. A saddle like device (14) is engaged with the vehicular component (9), the saddle (14) utilizing a self-aligning guide channel (38) and roller (19) locating and engaging system. Once attached, the vehicular component (9) may be uniquely manoeuvred via the underside of the vehicle, effected by a pair of articulated arms (24) and (25) operated by a plurality of hydraulic cylinders (31) and (32) to achieve the required movement of the arms (24) and (25). The trolley may then be moved from under the vehicle, such that the transmission, differential or other vehicular component may then be easily accessed for servicing.

Abstract: An access device for providing access between a substrate surface and the cabin of a vehicle. The device is attached to a rotating actuator extending outwardly from the side of the cabin for moving of the device between the access position (FIG. 1) and the storage position (FIG. 3). The device includes a substantially triangularly shaped platform. A first side of the platform is attached to the rotating actuator. A second side of the platform has the ladder depending therefrom. The third side of the platform is, in the access position (FIG. 1) located proximal to the cabin. The device is rotated by the rotating actuator to the storage position (FIG. 3) wherein the device is substantially upturned relative to the access position (FIG. 1) of the device and wherein a substantial part of the device is positioned above the rotating actuator.