Abstract: A tractor includes a track assembly having a frame, an idler wheel mechanically coupled to the frame, a drive wheel mechanically coupled to the frame, an endless track disposed around the idler wheel and the drive wheel, and a number of mid-rollers interposed between the idler wheel and the drive wheel. The tractor also includes a first protection member having a first upper edge and a first lower edge. The first protection member is secured to the frame such that a portion of the frame is positioned behind the first protection member. The tractor further includes a number of first guard members secured to the first protection member so that (i) the first guard members extend downwardly beyond the first lower edge toward the endless track and (ii) the first guard members are spaced apart from each other along the first lower edge such that a gap is defined between adjacent first guard members.

Abstract: A hitch for a work machine such as an agricultural tractor permits controlled towing of an implement behind the work machine. The hitch is attached to the machine frame. The hitch includes first and second draft arms that are pivotally connected with and spaced apart on the frame by intermediate links. The intermediate links provide pivotal movement of the draft arms constrained about a first horizontal axis. The intermediate links also provide pivotal movement of the first draft arm constrained about a second axis, and of the second draft arm constrained about a third axis. At least one draft cylinder is connected to one of the intermediate links and to a respective draft arm. The hitch incorporates multiple degrees of movement in a compact package and is useful as a steerable component of the machine to provide positive steering force.

Abstract: A work machine having an adjustable operator station including a cab having a floor and an operator station. The operator station has (i) a platform which is pivotally mounted to the floor, (ii) a pair of rollers which are secured to the platform, wherein the pair of rollers contact the floor so as to support the support structure above the floor, and (iii) a seat secured to the platform. The work machine further includes a locking mechanism for locking the platform at any one of a plurality of positions relative to the floor. An associated method for positioning the operator station relative to the cab floor of the work machine is also disclosed.

Abstract: All wheel steer work vehicles are useful for working in conditions which require greater maneuverability and traction. When simultaneous work operations and steering is required, a control having both functions is required. The subject vehicle includes a steering wheel for steering a first pair of wheels, an implement lever for controlling the implement work functions, and a switch means for steering a second pair of wheels mounted on the implement lever. This arrangement of components provides simultaneous movement of a work mechanism and steering of the second pair of wheels using only one hand of an operator.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a linkage connectable between a frame and an attachment. The linkage is characterized as self-leveling, meaning that once an attitude or orientation of the attachment with respect to the ground is achieved, the linkage will maintain that attitude as the attachment is raised or lowered without additional operator input. A preferred linkage connectable between the frame of a loader vehicle and a loader bucket includes an arm pivotally connectable between the frame and bucket, a hydraulic lift cylinder pivotally connectable between the frame and arm for raising and lowering the arm and resultantly the bucket, an equalizer link pivotally connectable to the arm at the same location as the lift cylinder, a hydraulic tilt cylinder pivotally connectable between the bucket and one end portion of the equalizer link, and an equalizer bar pivotally connectable between the frame and the other end portion of the equalizer link.