Abstract: In a front-end loader, a lift arm structure including a pair of lift arms which are rigidly joined by an improved cross-piece assembly. The cross-piece assembly includes first and second members which are configured to transversely extend one within the other between the lift arms. Along their lengths, the first and second members are separated from each other such that each is permitted to distort and absorb stress. The end portions of the first member are welded to an outside surface of the respective lift arms which the end portions of the second member are welded to an inside surface of the respective lift arms.

Abstract: A releasable lock for locking a boom that is pivoted on a horizontal pivot axis on a frame disclosed herein. The releasable lock includes a pin or first member on the frame and a second member pivotally supported on the boom about a common pivot axis with one end of a unit fluid ram that has its opposite end connected to a material handling unit which is pivoted on the outer end of the boom. A releasable linkage includes linkage between the unit fluid ram and the second member with the linkage having a portion pivotally supported on the boom and arranged so that pivotal movement of the unit fluid ram away from the boom during actuation thereof will automatically release the lock.