Abstract: The invention is suitable for use in a straddle-type crane having a frame and four corners, and comprises a system for the manual resynchronization or automatic synchronous movement of a plurality of pairs of steerable wheels. The pairs of steerable wheels are pivotal relative to the frame. The system comprises a hydraulically-actuated link and tie rod at each corner of the frame to turn all pairs of steerable wheels at each corner of said frame. It further comprises a hydraulic cylinder for each of the hydraulically-actuated links and tie rods, with the hydraulic cylinders being connected to each other in series relationship. The system also comprises a steering orbitrol which directs hydraulic fluid through the series-connected hydraulic cylinders.

Abstract: A straddle-type crane having the load-lifting mechanism positioned rearwardly of the transversely-extending cross beam used to effect the parallel spacing of the longitudinally-extending upper support beams from which the load-lifting mechanism is supported. Each of the load-lifting mechanisms is laterally movable relative to the upper support beams, from which they are carried, to facilitate the positioning of the load-lifting mechanism relative to the upper support beam and the load which is to be carried therein.

Abstract: A wire rope or cable stabilizing system for applying a balancing force to a suspended load to maintain vertical movement of the load perpendicular to the surface upon which the load is to be placed. The balancing force is effected to balance the lateral loading forces which may be applied to the suspended load such as may be due to, for example, the list or trim of a vessel, or the wind loading forces encountered when removing or replacing a hatch cover during a loading or unloading operation of a ship.

Abstract: A hydraulic steering synchronization system for use with straddle-type mobile cranes wherein upon actuation of the system and movement of the steering wheels through a normal side-to-side cycle, the movement of the steering wheels provides a signal to effect a balancing flow of hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic cylinders which control the movement of the steering wheels to effect resynchronization of their position, and to correct any misalignment therebetween.

Abstract: A hatch cover crane having a hydraulically actuated jack assembly for realigning a hatch cover carried by the hatch cover crane with a ship's cargo hold opening. The jack is extended downward onto one of a pair of support rails, over which the hatch cover crane is moved, to raise one end of the hatch cover crane off the rails. While one end of the crane is raised off the rails, an opposite end is freely driven to facilitate alignment of the hatch cover carried by the hatch cover crane with the cargo hold opening.

Abstract: A straddle-type mobile hoist having loading slings operatively connected to automatically equalize the loading applied through the slings and adapted to vary the lateral spacing between slings.