Patents by Inventor Louis F. Vachon

Louis F. Vachon has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 4589180
    Abstract: To service an engine, it is frequently determined that a cylinder liner and piston must be replaced. Removal is difficult and time consuming if the piston is first removed through the liner and the liner is then grasped from below and pulled from the block. A method includes inserting a tool into a bore of the liner and expanding the tool into a frictional fit against the liner. A force is applied on the tool to forcibly move the liner. The piston and associated rings and rod are held in place in the liner by a partial vacuum for removal with the liner as a complete unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1985
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1986
    Assignee: Caterpillar Tractor Co.
    Inventor: Louis F. Vachon
  • Patent number: 4530141
    Abstract: To service an engine, it is frequently determined that a cylinder liner and piston must be replaced. Removal is difficult and time consuming if the piston is first removed through the liner and the liner is then grasped from below and pulled from the block. A method includes inserting a tool into a bore of the liner and expanding the tool into a frictional fit against the liner. A force is applied on the tool to forcibly move the liner. The piston and associated rings and rod are held in place in the liner by a partial vacuum for removal with the liner as a complete unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1983
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1985
    Assignee: Caterpillar Tractor Co.
    Inventor: Louis F. Vachon
  • Patent number: 4480368
    Abstract: To service an engine (10), it is frequently determined that a cylinder liner (12) and piston (18) must be replaced. It is difficult and time consuming to first install the liner (12) and then the piston (18) with the rings (20) and connecting rod (22). A pre-assembled unit (36) including the liner (12) and piston (18) may be installed on the engine according to a disclosed method. The unitary assembly simplifies steps at the service facility and, if desired, permits assembly of the unit (36) prior to shipment to the service facility to reduce shipping space and cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1983
    Date of Patent: November 6, 1984
    Assignee: Caterpillar Tractor Co.
    Inventor: Louis F. Vachon