Abstract: An improvement in an articulated tractor which has front and rear sections pivotally connected along a vertical axis of articulation. Each of the sections is supported by a pair of ground engaging wheels that are drivingly connected to a differential input by a differential and an axle. The improvement includes an engine mounted on the front section forward of the front section differential with the engine's output element disposed longitudinally of the tractor. The engine's output element extends rearwardly toward the front section differential and is vertically positioned in close proximity to the top of the front section differential. The improvement also includes a power train connected to the engine's output element which provides for the transmittal of engine power rearwardly from the engine output element along a first path over the front section differential, to and through the axis of articulation.

Abstract: A self-locking step assembly is attached to a vehicle by rigidly connecting the outer cylinder of the assembly to the vehicle frame. The outer cylinder is secured with the centerline of its concentric inner and outer walls being substantially vertical. The inner cylinder of the assembly is slidably and rotatably positioned within the inside wall of the outer cylinder. The inner cylinder has a step secured to its bottom section, with the step being substantially perpendicular to the inner cylinder. The assembly also utilizes a locking pin that is rigidly secured to one of the inner or outer cylinders, and a cam slot that is in the other of the inner and outer cylinders. The pin engages the cam slot which has first and second portions connected by a third portion. When the pin is in the first portion of the cam slot, the step is held in its used position by gravitational forces. When the pin is in the second position of the cam slot, the pin is held in its stored position by the same gravitational forces.

Abstract: A control module is isolated from the vibrations of a host vehicle through the use of vibration absorbing mounting components and flexible control cables and fluid lines. The control module further incorporates a multiple functioning control armrest integral with the vehicle seat for directing vehicle motion as well as the operation of ancillary equipment. The control module can be used on a wide range of vehicles as a layout of the platform is compatible with many types of vehicles.

Abstract: A control module is isolated from the vibrations of a host vehicle through the use of vibration absorbing mounting components and flexible control cables and fluid lines. The control module further incorporates a multiple functioning control armrest integral with the vehicle seat for directing vehicle motion as well as the operation of ancillary equipment. The control module can be used on a wide range of vehicles as a layout of the platform is compatible with many types of vehicles.