Abstract: A dual function throttle control system is disclosed for earthmoving machines. The throttle control system includes a hand lever that is electrically connected to a proportional directional hydraulic valve. Rotation of the hand lever controls actuation of an engine speed actuator and thus the speed of the engine. A foot pedal is connected through a three position spring-centered hydraulic valve to the engine speed actuator. The direction of flow of hydraulic fluid through the three position spring-centered hydraulic valve is controlled by the position of the hand lever. When the hand lever is set at the lowest speed setting, rotation of the foot pedal in a first direction increases the engine speed. When the control lever is set at the highest speed setting, rotation of the foot pedal in the first direction decreases the speed of the engine. Thus, the foot pedal operates both as a decelerator or an accelerator depending on the position of the hand lever.

Abstract: An apparatus for mounting a rotary position sensor to a linkage pin housing and a linkage pin. The linkage pin is rotatably positioned within the linkage pin housing. The apparatus includes a sensor housing adapted to mount to the linkage pin housing, and a linkage pin adapter located within the sensor housing and having a first end adapted to mount to the linkage pin. The linkage pin adapter is adapted to rotate within the sensor housing as a function of a rotation of the linkage pin. The apparatus also includes a first coupling member connected to a second end of the linkage pin adapter. The first coupling member is flexible and has a general cup shape extending away from the linkage pin adapter. In addition, the apparatus includes a second coupling member connected to the first coupling member. The second coupling member is adapted to drivably rotate the rotary position sensor in response to the rotation of the linkage pin.

Abstract: A grain combine has a header, a header discharge port, a feederhouse for transporting the cut crops from the header housing into a rotating concave threshing system. The header, discharge port and feederhouse are separated into separate first and second discrete cut crop passageways extending from the header to the intake end of the concave.

Abstract: A belted multi-purpose trailer vehicle has first and second roller frame assemblies and a main support frame assembly. The roller frame assemblies are connected to the support frame assembly by first, second, and third quick release connecting mechanisms. These mechanisms provide rapid and easy assembly and disassembly of the roller frame assemblies to the support frame. Many farm operations require several different trailer-type vehicles to perform the various work functions. The subject multi-purpose trailer vehicle uses a single belted undercarriage easily connectable to a plurality of cargo and hauling beds or carts. This eliminates the need to have a plurality of separate complete trailer vehicles, each with their own running gear or ground supporting assemblies.

Abstract: A track-type vehicle having first and second endless track assemblies and first and second steerable wheels includes a weight management apparatus including a measuring assembly for measuring the angle of steer of the steerable wheels, a hydraulic cylinder connected between the frame of the vehicle and the axles of the steerable wheels, and an actuating device for actuating control valves which control pressure of the pressurized fluid to the hydraulic cylinder. Controlling the pressure of the pressurized fluid supplied to the hydraulic cylinder, as a function of the angle of steer of the steerable wheels, changes the ground pressure applied by the steerable wheels and the track assemblies. The pressure of the fluid supplied to the hydraulic cylinder also determines the amount of contact the track assemblies have with the ground. Steering of track-type vehicles is more difficult than wheel-type vehicles due to the large contact area of the track assemblies with the ground.

Abstract: Fluid reservoirs are often provided with a means by which the severity of fluid contamination may be monitored. One method of checking the condition of the fluid, requires the disassembly or removal of one or more components from the associated reservoir in order to read the monitoring device. Another method is utilized in conjunction with the filtration system of the fluid and an indication is observed when the level of contamination reaches a predetermined point. The present invention provides an apparatus whereby the condition of a fluid may be continually observed without requiring the disassembly or removal of any components attached to the fluid reservoir, regardless of the condition of the fluid.