Abstract: The adjacent extremities of two lengths of irrigation pipe are axially aligned in a spaced relationship within a longitudinally split, bolt closed coupler sleeve. The coupler sleeve has a diameter greater than that of the pipes and contains a one-piece sealing boot therein which sealably embraces the ends of the irrigation pipe. An open gimbal ring medially surrounds the coupler sleeve in a diametrically spaced relationship with respect thereto. Bracket members are mounted on the opposite sides of each pipe extremity in a longitudinally spaced relationship with respect to the coupler sleeve and a pair of arms extend from each bracket member to opposite pivotal connections with the gimbal ring, the axes of the pivotal connections of one pair being circumferentially spaced on said gimbal ring at 90.degree. from the pivotal connections of the other pair to enable the pipe lengths to freely, relatively and arcuately swing in any desired direction.

Abstract: A gear box having an extended hub or nose is disclosed herein which is adapted for use on a self-propelled, center pivot irrigation system. The gear box includes a housing, an input shaft extending thereinto, and an output shaft extending outwardly therefrom at a right angle to the input shaft. A gear means in the housing connects the input and output shafts. The housing is mounted on the drive frame of the system with the outer end of the output shaft being connected to a drive wheel which is mounted on the drive frame. The output shaft has a sufficient length so that clearance is provided between the input shaft and the tire on the drive wheel. An extended hub is secured to the housing and extends outwardly therefrom to support the outer end of the output shaft closely adjacent the center of the load imposed on the drive wheel.Generally speaking, center pivot irrigation systems employ a plurality of wheeled support towers which are secured to and spaced along the length of the water distribution pipe.