Abstract: An improved suspension system for a mobile machine adapted to work a material associated with a horizontal surface includes a frame mounting a prime mover. An arbor shaft extends transversely across the frame adjacent to a front end of the machine and is drivingly connected to the prime mover. The suspension system includes a live rear axle and a front axle assembly that is extendable and retractable whereby the machine is movable between raised and lowered positions. A rotating tool is mounted on the arbor shaft. Lowering the machine from its raised position engages the tool with the material. The improvement to the suspension system comprises a support device for providing extra support to the frame when the machine is in its lowered position, the support device being adapted to stabilize the machine when the tool exerts an upward reactionary force on the machine front end.

Abstract: A one-piece blade shroud and vacuum duct system for removing a water and swarf slurry from a pavement grooving site includes an adjustable intake nozzle for directly receiving the slurry hurled by the rotating blades of a pavement grooving machine. Only two nozzles are used in order to simplify the vacuum ducting and to improve the efficiency of the system. By disposing a water jet assembly within the blade shroud, efficiency is further increased.

Abstract: A vibration damper for a road planer and the like with a main frame and a sub-frame movably connected thereto. A prime mover and a tool are mounted on the sub-frame, which includes frame members forming compartments adapted to receive lead shot particles therein. The particles absorb vibrational energy from the prime mover and the tool. A method of damping vibration is disclosed wherein vibrational energy is transmitted to the lead shot particles which vibrate and generate heat. The heat is dissipated through the frame members to the atmosphere.