Abstract: A hood mounting system and methods having compliant hinge assemblies mounted between frontal portions of a hood and the vehicle frame. Detachable mating members are also preferably included and mounted between rearward portions of the hood and the vehicle cab. Such mating members can also provide compliant connection. The hood hinge assemblies shown have a rocker member pivotally connected to a support member and at least one resilient member between the rocker member and the support member. A second pivot axis is also defined relative to the rocker member about which the hood pivots.

Abstract: An air intake system for a cab and engine of a vehicle is shown and described. In a preferred embodiment, dry, ambient air is provided to the cab and engine through a duct that is mounted to an inner surface of a vehicle hood such that the hood forms a top surface of the duct. The duct is relatively narrow across the width of the hood and flares into an air chamber on either side of the hood. An air inlet opening is provided on both sides of the hood such that outside air is drawn into the air chambers. The velocity of the air drops as it passes into and through the air chambers, causing the moisture in the air to separate and drain from the air chambers through an evacuator valve provided in the bottom surface of each chamber. Two openings are provided in the bottom surface of the duct. One opening sealingly engages an opening in the engine air cleaner and the second opening sealingly engages a cab air intake duct, when the hood is in a closed position.

Abstract: An apparatus which isolates the radiator from the shock and deflection caused by movement of the truck chassis frame during operation of the truck. The apparatus includes a tubular support member connected at a location approximately equidistant from each chassis frame rail to a support member joining chassis frame rails of a truck. The tubular support member is attached to the hood and can also be attached to the front bumper and fenders. Installation of the tubular support member allows designers to contour the hood to the radiator, improving driver visibility and aerodynamics of the truck while not decreasing the fatigue life of the radiator. Securing the bumper to the support apparatus also allows closer fit between the bumper and the hood due to integration of relative movement of these parts.

Abstract: A combination draw valve and sending unit assembly includes a draw valve assembly and sending unit assembly. The draw valve assembly is constructed for drawing fuel from a fuel tank of a truck or other motor vehicle. The draw valve assembly includes an adapter valve and a float valve constructed for automatically closing so that no fuel can be withdrawn from the fuel tank when the fuel level in the tank is low. The sending unit assembly inlcudes a potentiometer and a magnetic contact wherein the magnetic contact is coupled to the float valve for providing an electrical signal indicative of the amount of fuel remaining in the fuel tank.