Abstract: A control apparatus for a lawn mower which includes two coupling members pivotable about a single axis. The coupling members are connected to a drive mechanism and a braking mechanism for the lawn mower. The members are coupled so that a forward pushing force applied by the operator actuates forward driving movement of the lawn mower and a pulling force actuates the braking mechanism when the drive mechanism is placed in a forward gear.

Abstract: A hydrostatic drive system having valving which disengages power to selected drive wheel motors in response to a sensed lack of traction, while the driven vehicle is in motion. The valving also allows communication of fluid between the inlet port of one drive wheel motor and the outlet port of another, in response to the decoupling of one of the motors in order to prevent an abrupt transition.

Abstract: A multiblade mulching rotary lawn mower. A multiblade mower has a removably affixed mulching housing coupled to the mower deck top wall and is overlying an associated cutting blade. Mulching operation can be carried out without closing any discharge port, and the mower can readily be changed between mulching and nonmulching operation by removal of the mulching housings.

Abstract: A drive system for a tractor. The output from a hydrostatic transmission is connected to the rotatable input member of a differential, while the output shafts of the differential are each connected to a drive wheel of the tractor. A clutch interconnects one output shaft of the differential with the input member, and when the clutch is engaged, the output shafts will rotate at the same speed, acting as a solid axle. The steering column of the tractor is connected to a steerable wheel, and when the steering column is rotated through a predetermined arc of about 15.degree., a linkage interconnecting the steering column and the clutch act to disengage the clutch, so that the drive wheels are permitted to rotate at different speeds. Rotation of the steering column through a greater arc of about 80.degree. will automatically operate a brake associated with the inside wheel in the turn.

Abstract: A neutral lock mechanism for a direction and speed control pedal. Forward or down-toe motion on the pedal produces forward movement of a vehicle and rear, or down-heel, motion produces rear movement, while increased displacement of the pedal in either direction will produce an increase in speed. The neutral lock mechanism includes a latch pivotally connected to the pedal and spring loaded to a latching position in which the latch will engage the floor plate of the vehicle and prevent pivotal movement of the pedal. A lever is connected to the latch and projects upwardly through an opening in the pedal. The operator's foot, when in a normal operating position, will depress the lever and release the latch while mere accidental engagement of the operator's foot with the pedal will not release the latch and will retain the pedal in the neutral lock position.