Abstract: An improved Z-bar linkage for wheel loader machines for maneuvering an implement such as a bucket or pallet forks may include lift arms pivotally connected between an end frame of the machine and the implement, a tilt link pivotally connected between the implement and a tilt lever that is pivotally connected between the tilt link and the lift arms. Lift cylinders may rotate the lift arms to raise and lower the implement, and a tilt cylinder may drive the tilt lever and tilt link to rotate the implement between a dump position and a racked position. Ratios of the lengths of these kinematic elements are provided such that the good performance with one implement, such as bucket, does not result in poor performance with another implement, such as the pallet forks.

Abstract: An improved Z-bar linkage for wheel loader machines for maneuvering an implement such as a bucket or pallet forks may include lift arms pivotally connected between an end frame of the machine and the implement, a tilt link pivotally connected between the implement and a tilt lever that is pivotally connected between the tilt link and the lift arms. Lift cylinders may rotate the lift arms to raise and lower the implement, and a tilt cylinder may drive the tilt lever and tilt link to rotate the implement between a dump position and a racked position. Ratios of the lengths of these kinematic elements are provided such that the good performance with one implement, such as bucket, does not result in poor performance with another implement, such as the pallet forks.

Abstract: A work machine having a stick assembly which- includes (i) a stick having a forward stick aperture (ii) a guide which is pivotally coupled to the stick, and (iii) a link pivotally coupled to the guide is disclosed. The work machine also includes a coupler having a left lateral support and a right lateral support, wherein (i) the left lateral support has a left rear coupler aperture, a left intermediate coupler aperture, and a left forward coupler notch, and (ii) the right lateral support has a right rear coupler aperture, a right intermediate coupler aperture, and a right forward coupler notch.