Abstract: A braking element which has an uninterrupted, unitary structure and is prepared in one step is provided. By coating a molding surface used to mold the braking element with a certain amount of nodularizing agent, the molten iron poured into the mold is transformed into an uninterrupted, unitary structure. The amount of nodularizing agent is such that a ductile iron support surface results from the nodularizing agent inoculating the initially poured iron. However, the amount is also such that a grey iron friction braking surface results from the subsequently poured iron which does not come in contact with the nodularizing agent.

Abstract: A gear shift lever for a tilt cab vehicle that moves with the cab when it is tilted for access to other mechanical parts of the vehicle, for instance, the engine. The lever apparatus is resiliently engaged with the cab in a manner which substantially isolates the lever from cab vibrations. More particularly, the lever includes a lower end that is specially-mounted and releasably engaged with a complementary portion of a gear transfer mechanism, and an upper end available for shifting by an operator. The gear shift lever is preloaded to maintain the proper operative relationship between the shift lever and the complementary portion of the transfer mechanism when the cab is in an untilted or closed disposition. A protective cover is integrated with the lever apparatus to seal substantially the cab interior from the engine compartment and thereby prevent air and exhaust fumes from leaking into the cab.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a cab mounted on a frame capable of vibratory, beam-like bending about at least one nodal point. To minimize the fore and aft motion of the cab caused by the vibratory bending of the frame and by pitching of the vehicle, while reducing vertical motion of the cab, one portion of the cab is resiliently mounted on the frame at or near a nodal point. Preferably, the resilient mount includes at least one pneumatic spring. Another portion of the cab is secured to the frame by a pivotal support that transmits to the cab vibratory movement of the frame at the support.