Abstract: This invention provides a three-function control mechanism that employs a single control lever for controlling a first, a second and a third actuator and which may be used in connection with a bulldozer. A torque-amplifying device is provided for assisting in the activation of at least one of the actuators. The control mechanism includes a control bracket, a control handle, and first, second, and third bellcranks pivotably supported by the control bracket. The control mechanism further includes first, second, and third linkage that interconnect the control lever, through the bellcranks, to respective ones of the first, second, and third actuators. The torque-amplifying device is coupled to at least one of the bellcranks in order to assist in the pivoting of the bellcrank. Due to the supporting an arrangement of the control lever, bellcranks, and linkage, the control lever may be moved forward or backward, twisted clockwise or connterclockwise, or moved side to side either separately or in unison.

Abstract: A sealed and lubricated pivot pin assembly and method for joining linkage components in earth-moving machinery. The pivot pin assembly includes a pivot pin subassembly, a pair of spacer rings, a pair of track chain type annular seals, an end cap subassembly, and a releasable fastener. The spacer rings simplify joint assembly by setting up and controlling the proper squeeze on the annular seals, preventing crushing of the annular seals during torquing of the releasable fastener, and controlling the set-up length of the assembled joint so that no shimming is required. Each of the pivot pin and end cap subassemblies include an end sleeve which extends beyond the joint clevis or brackets a sufficient distance to allow the pivot pin assembly to float axially and, thereby, compensate for minor deflections in the joint members. The pivot pin assembly is symmetrical in that the pivot pin and end cap subassemblies have common dimensions which permit the pivot pin assembly to be installed from either side of a joint.

Abstract: Safety bar for maintaining a piston rod in an extended position with respect to its cylinder. The rod-and-cylinder function as the hydraulic actuator for the lift arm in a front-end crawler-loader, and are connected at the rod end to the loader lift arm and at the cylinder end to a loader carrier frame in the crawler-loader. The safety bar has an operative position where it is retained, under compression, adjacent the piston rod to prop the raised rod and lift arm against retrograde collapse, and the bar is swingably mounted to the lift arm for elevation into an inoperative position adjacent the lift arm.