Abstract: A universal digging tooth attachment apparatus adapted to be secured to a forward edge of a bucket lip of an earth moving implement. The universal digging tooth attachment has a first element with an elongate section defining a first generally planar surface for abutting and engaging along the length thereof with one face of the bucket lip of the earth moving implement and a second element. The second element has an elongate section defining a second generally planar surface for abutting and engaging along the length thereof with the bucket lip of the earth moving implement directly opposite from the elongate section of the first element. One of the first and second elements has an earth engaging tooth projecting therefrom. A slip joint operably connects the first and second elements to each other to allow for adjustment of a distance between the first and second planar surfaces to accommodate attachment of the digging tooth to implements having bucket lips of differing thicknesses.

Abstract: A pin assembly for releasably maintaining an adapter and replaceable part or tool of a two-part digging system in operable combination relative to each other. The pin assembly includes a pair of axially aligned retaining pins whose opposed ends are arranged in operable combination relative to each other. Each retaining pin has an enlarged head portion configured to fit within one of the openings defined by the tool, and a shank portion. An axially arranged and rotatable fastener maintains the opposed distal ends of the pins in releasably secured relation relative to each other. A method for releasably maintaining the digging tooth/tool and adapter is operable combination is also disclosed.

Abstract: A digging tooth adapted to extend forward from a leading edge of a bucket or the like. The digging tooth has a forward end, with an edge extending thereacross, and a rear end. The digging tooth further includes wing structure preferably formed integral with the digging tooth and extending from a surface on the tooth so as to provide the bucket with enhanced ground penetration capability while concomitantly shielding ground engaging components disposed rearwardly of a rear end of the digging tooth against wear and, thus, potentially extending the useful wear life of such components.

Abstract: A pin assembly for releasably maintaining an adapter and replaceable part or tool of a two-part digging system in operable combination relative to each other. The pin assembly includes a pair of axially aligned retaining pins whose opposed ends are arranged in operable combination relative to each other. Each retaining pin has an enlarged head portion configured to fit within one of the openings defined by the tool, and a shank portion. An axially arranged and rotatable fastener maintains the opposed distal ends of the pins in releasably secured relation relative to each other. A method for releasably maintaining the digging tooth/tool and adapter is operable combination is also disclosed.

Abstract: A digging tooth adapted to extend forward from a leading edge of a bucket or the like. The digging tooth has a forward end, with an edge extending thereacross, and a rear end. The digging tooth further includes wing structure formed integral with the digging tooth and extending from a surface on the tooth so as to provide the bucket with enhanced ground penetration capability while concomitantly shielding ground engaging components disposed rearwardly of a rear end of the digging tooth against wear and, thus, potentially extending the useful wear life of such components.

Abstract: A hammerless attachment assembly for releasably maintaining an adapter and replaceable part or tool of a two-part digging system in operable combination relative to each other. The hammerless attachment assembly includes an insert nonrotatably fitted within a recess defined on a side of the adapter nose portion and a rotatable fastener having a head portion and an externally threaded shank portion. A lengthwise portion of the extends through an opening having a closed margin defined in a side of the tool, with the opening in the side of the tool registering with the internally threaded bore in the insert when the tool is positioned on the adapter nose portion.

Abstract: A multipiece excavating tooth assembly including an adapter, a digging or excavating tooth, and retaining pin structure for interconnecting the adapter and tooth in operable combination relative to each other. The tooth and adapter have a uniquely configured interface or conjuncture therebetween. Moreover, the conjuncture between the digging tooth and adapter is configured to advantageously orientate the retaining pin structure to avoid those problems inherent with conventional vertical and horizontal pin systems.

Abstract: A multipiece excavating tooth assembly including an adapter and an excavating tooth. A fastener releasably interconnects and maintains the excavating tooth in operable combination with the adapter. When assembled, an elongated nose portion of the adapter extends into a blind cavity defined by and which opens to a rear end of the excavating tooth. The adapter and tooth define a pair of fore-and-aft spaced stabilizing lands for advantageously transferring impact forces imparted to the tooth assembly during an excavating operation. Each stabilizing land on the tooth assembly is comprised of a pair of generally horizontal flats arranged in confronting relation relative to each other when the excavating tooth is arranged in operable combination with the adapter. Each stabilizing land further includes a generally vertical stabilizing wall arranged in at least partially surrounding relation relative to the flat.

Abstract: A multipiece excavating tooth assembly including an adapter, a digging or excavating tooth, and retaining pin structure for interconnecting the adapter and tooth in operable combination relative to each other. The tooth and adapter have a uniquely configured interface or conjuncture therebetween. Moreover, the conjuncture between the digging tooth and adapter is configured to advantageously orientate the retaining pin structure to avoid those problems inherent with conventional vertical and horizontal pin systems.