Abstract: A frame and suspension assembly is capable of a low frame rail orientation and enhanced on-road stability when incorporated in a motor vehicle. An air spring suspension system is mounted outwardly of the frame rails and the frame rails include a reinforced notch to provide the required structural clearance for the rear axle to compensate for the low-to-the-ground frame rail positioning. An anti-sway bar which spans the distance between the two sides of the frame is also included for further stabilization.

Abstract: A pneumatic spreader and distributor nozzles for the distribution of solid materials is disclosed. The nozzles include a flow chamber having an inlet opening, an outlet opening, and a discharge structure positioned adjacent to the outlet opening. Both the flow chamber and the discharge structure are shaped and dimensioned so as to discharge the materials in a uniform pattern.

Abstract: A pneumatic spreader for the distribution of materials and a flow distributor for same are disclosed. The spreader includes a distribution chamber having multiple compartments with a gas inlet and material outlet defining a venturi in each of the compartments. The materials are discharged from the distribution chamber and its compartments through first conduits coupled to the respective material outlets and a plurality of second conduits communicating with each of the first conduits for receiving the materials and discharging them to the ground. A flow distributor adjacent the juncture of the first and second conduits equally divides the materials in the first conduit between the second conduits. The flow distributor includes a substantially circular plate having a plurality of openings which communicate to the second conduits and a substantially conical deflector which is adjustable both linearly and is eccentrically rotatable for adjusting the flow between the plate openings.

Abstract: A vehicle mounted spray boom assembly includes a breakaway spray boom and shock absorbing means for absorbing the shock on the boom assembly when a boom returns to normal position after striking an obstacle. The shock absorbing means includes a swing cylinder for rigging in and rigging out the spray boom and a tilt cylinder for tilting the boom when the boom has been rigged out. Upon occurrence of shock after an obstacle is struck, a portion of the hydraulic fluid in the swing cylinder is forced into the tilt cylinder to lift the spray boom to dissipate the shock. In addition, another cylinder may be provided for absorbing shock imparted to the boom due to vertical movement of the boom. Also the swing cylinder and tilt cylinder are hydraulically connected in parallel so that when rig out has been completed, pressurized hydraulic fluid continues to be ported to the tilt cylinder to elevate the end of the boom.