Abstract: A drive system is provided including first and second primary drive motors that are connected to drive opposing wheels at one end of a vehicle. Each primary drive motor is connected to and drives a variable displacement hydraulic pump. Each pump is connected via a separate hydraulic drive circuit to at least one hydraulic motor. The hydraulic drive motors drive opposing wheels at a second, opposite end of the vehicle.

Abstract: A battery changing system is provided for an electrically powered vehicle. The battery changing system includes a housing for the battery. The housing includes first and second spaced crossbars. A battery manipulating mechanism is mounted to the vehicle. This battery manipulating mechanism includes at least one outwardly projecting arm that is pivotally connected to the vehicle and driven by an actuator so as to raise and lower the battery. More specifically, the arm includes an upwardly directed recess for engaging the first crossbar on the battery housing and a downwardly directed saddle for receiving the second crossbar of the battery housing. A locking plate may be selectively extended to secure the second crossbar in the saddle.

Abstract: A plurality of rings is mounted on a shaft for rotation therewith with each ring having a plurality of equally angularly spaced bits mounted thereon to fracture material. Each of the rings has an insert mounted in a recess in its periphery between each adjacent pair of the bits. The insert has an angled edge to fracture, rather than crush, the material between the bits as the rings are rotated.

Abstract: Resiliently biased dogs of a car shifting apparatus are automatically moved by double acting hydraulic cylinders to positions in which the dogs cannot engage any car moving along a predetermined path. When this occurs, movement of the dogs from these non-obstructing positions and movement of barneys, which have the dogs pivotally mounted thereon, along the predetermined path are prevented.