Abstract: A vehicle, such as an extendible boom forklift, that includes a personnel work platform (PWP). The personnel work platform includes a shut-off switch that is connected to the electronic controls for the extendible boom forklift. The operational controls of the extendible boom forklift include a personnel work platform control system that modifies the operation of the extendible boom forklift when the forklift is in a PWP mode. The PWP control system receives inputs from the shut-off switch, a PWP system actuation switch, a service brake pressure switch and a level sensor/switch such that the control system enables the PWP mode only upon satisfying certain safety-related concerns. In the PWP mode, the control system engages the parking brake, declutches the transmission, locks the frame stabilizing cylinder, deactivates the auxiliary and tilt hydraulic functions and limits the frame leveling rate to slow speeds.

Abstract: A vehicle, such as an extendible forklift, includes a chassis or frame carrying a set of ground-engaging wheels, and a boom assembly pivotably mounted to the frame. A leveling cylinder is interposed between the frame and the wheels for leveling the frame when the vehicle is on uneven terrain and prior to raising the boom assembly to elevate a load. A switch mechanism is interposed between the frame and the boom assembly, for detecting when the boom assembly reaches or exceeds a predetermined angle relative to the frame. Actuation of the switch mechanism results in a restriction in the flow of fluid to the leveling cylinder, to reduce the speed at which the frame leveling cylinder can be operated. Simultaneously, the switch mechanism is operable to actuate the parking brake of the forklift, to prevent movement when the boom is raised above the predetermined angle.

Abstract: A drive train arrangement for a construction-type vehicle having a central frame member includes an engine, a transmission, and a transfer case extending between and interconnecting the engine and the transmission. The vehicle includes a side frame assembly which extends laterally from the central frame member, and which defines a drive train receiving space within which the engine, transmission and transfer case are received. A second side frame assembly extends laterally from the central frame member in an opposite direction, and is adapted to support an operator cab. The engine and the transmission extend along longitudinal axes which are substantially parallel to each other, and the transfer case drivingly interconnects the engine output with the transmission input. The transmission is drivingly engaged with a pair of drive shafts, which extend along a longitudinal axis coincident with the longitudinal axis of the central frame member.