Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle component configuration. There is a need for a tractor design which results both in a low operator position and a minimal foot obstruction. A vehicle includes an engine, a transmission, a driveshaft, a rear axle housing, a frame and a seat supported on the frame. The driveshaft has a front end coupled to the engine and a rear end coupled to the transmission. The transmission is positioned under the seat, rearward of a normal operator foot position and immediately adjacent to the rear axle housing. The front end of the driveshaft is lower than the rear end of the driveshaft. The driveshaft extends along a driveshaft axis which is oriented approximately 1.5 degrees with respect to a horizontal plane. The engine has an output shaft which is parallel to the driveshaft, and the transmission has an input shaft which is parallel to the driveshaft.

Abstract: A steering control system for a tracked vehicle includes an engine driven variable displacement steering pump which drives a hydraulic motor. A control system senses steering wheel position, vehicle speed, engine speed and forward/reverse vehicle direction. As a function of these sensed inputs, a control signal is generated and is used to control the swashplate angle of an engine-driven variable displacement pump which drives a steering motor which drives a differential track drive mechanism. The control system also determines a ratio of motor speed to vehicle speed and generates a powerboost signal when the ratio exceeds a threshold value. The powerboost signal is communicated to the engine controller which causes the engine to increase its power output. This modifies the engine fuel delivery curve based on the steering system power requirement and increases the power available for turning the vehicle.