Abstract: A track apparatus of the type mountable on a rotatable axle of a vehicle is provided with a frame having excellent rigidity. The frame, which is preferably of unique uni-body construction, includes first and second portions that define a drive wheel receipt well therebetween for receiving the drive wheel of the track apparatus.

Abstract: A drive wheel is provided for mounting on a rotatable axle of a vehicle for driving a continuous flexible track. The flexible track includes an inner surface having a plurality of lugs and terminating at terminal surfaces. The drive wheel includes a central hub mountable on the axle of the vehicle for rotational movement therewith. First and second side-surfaces extend radially from the central hub and an outer rim interconnects the radial outer edges of the side-surfaces. It is intended that the terminal surfaces of the lugs engage the outer rim of the drive wheel such that the lugs are supported when the flexible track is driven by the drive wheel.

Abstract: A tensioning device is provided for maintaining the tension on a continuous flexible track of a track apparatus. The track apparatus includes an idler wheel which engages the flexible track and which is movable between a first non-deflected position and a second deflected position. A dampening mechanism extends between an idler axle which supports the idler wheel and the frame of the track apparatus in order to exert a force on the idler axle to urge the idler wheel towards the non-deflected position. The dampening mechanism progressively increases the force on the idler axle as the idler wheel moves towards the deflected position.

Abstract: A drive wheel engaged with flexible track of track apparatus mountable on a vehicle axle, the drive wheel including a peripheral portion which, between radially-extending drive members, has outwardly-facing lug-engagement surfaces in position for engagement with the distal surfaces of the track lugs, to extend the useful life of flexible track. Preferred embodiments have spaces facilitating removal of debris. Certain preferred lug-engaging surfaces are provided by peripherally-spaced cross-members. The drive wheel is preferably free of side structure, allowing track lugs to adjust precise positions of engagement with lug-engagement surfaces.

Abstract: A drive wheel engaged with flexible track of track apparatus mountable on a vehicle axle, the drive wheel including a peripheral portion which, between radially-extending drive members, has outwardly-facing lug-engagement surfaces in position for engagement with the distal surfaces of the track lugs, to extend the useful life of flexible track. Preferred embodiments have spaces facilitating removal of debris. Certain preferred lug-engaging surfaces are provided by peripherally-spaced cross-members. The drive wheel is preferably free of side structure, allowing track lugs to adjust precise positions of engagement with lug-engagement surfaces.

Abstract: An apparatus for sharpening a chain saw includes a frame, a file guide carriage having at least one guide bore capable of receiving a file therethrough, and a guide bar attached to the frame. The file guide carriage is mounted with respect to the frame so as to allow for sliding movement along an axis and an elongate opening in the carriage is coincident with the axis. The improvement includes at least one easy-to-remove adjustment screw that has spaced-apart inward and outward bearing surfaces threaded into the elongate opening. A bearing member extends from the guide bar and is interposed between the bearing surfaces. This bearing member includes a first aperture aligned with the axis and having a first diameter that allows for the receiving of the adjustment screw, and a second aperture overlapping the first aperture and having a second diameter greater than the first diameter.