Abstract: A pivot joint and a method for molding a pivot joint includes creating a mold to form an eyelet link and a yoke link of the pivot joint, in whatever form is desired or required. A pivot bushing and a loose part are each placed into the mold. The mold is closed and, through use of either a high pressure injection molding process or a reaction injection molding process, polyurethane plastic or resin is injected into the mold through a runner and gate system. After the joint is removed from the mold, and the loose part is removed from the joint, the gate and vent are trimmed, as are one or more sub-gates between the eyelet link and the yoke link of the pivot joint. In this fashion, a fully articulated pivot joint is created in a single molding cycle.

Abstract: A drive wheel control for a walk-behind self-propelled implement, such as a lawn mower. The control activates sequentially a transmission ball clutch and then a V-belt drive to provide positive and gradual drive wheel start up. Disengagement of the ball clutch allows the drive wheels to freewheel and permits the operator to easily move the mower backwardly as when trimming around hedges and bushes. The control includes a pair of links pivotally connected, with one link rigidly mounted to the transmission. Movement of a single control cable connected to one link initially activates the ball clutch and then causes rocking movement of the other link and the transmission to engage the V-belt drive.

Abstract: A material deflector is provided for a lawn mower. The deflector is swingably carried by the mower housing and need not be removed when a bagger attachment is used. The deflector is shiftable between a first position above and biased against the mower grass bagger and a second position in registry with the mower discharge outlet. When the deflector is in registry with the rear discharge outlet, it deflects the cut material to the side of the mower. The deflector includes two adjoining material deflector surfaces, the first surface sloping downwardly and to the side and the second surface sloping rearwardly and to the side. The two surfaces meet to form a generally right angle or L-shape material deflector rather than a traditional tubular channel for conveying of the cut material.