Abstract: An improved vehicle hose retraction system is disclosed having a dual roller configuration which permits the hose to follow a smooth S-shaped path during extension and retraction, thereby maximizing the hose storage capacity of the system and avoiding kinds and abrasion to the hose. The axis of each roller is oriented so as to be generally perpendicular to the plane of the housing of the retraction system to minimize hose friction and wear. The housing is also provided with an angled hood which presents the free end of the hose in a position that facilitates connection. In addition, a locking mechanism is disclosed which prevents rotation of its members under vibrational conditions.

Abstract: A system is provided for retracting and extending flexible hoses where the hoses are adapted to connect a fluid power system on a first vehicle to a fluid power receiving device on a second vehicle and the vehicles are connected together for traveling. A flexible hose mounted on a first one of the vehicles has an extensible portion of sufficient length to allow the hose to extend at least a maximum distance normally anticipated to occur between the vehicles during travel. A resilient member, also mounted on the first vehicle, has a first end connected to the extensible proportion of the hose and a second end connected to the first vehicle. The resilient member is adapted to extend and retract the extensible portion of the hose in proportion to variations in the distance between the vehicles. A housing mounted on the first vehicle covers both the resilient member and the extensible portion of the hose when the hose is fully retracted.