Abstract: A power transfer mechanism incorporated in a multiple path drive system comprising a source of input torque, a transfer case, and a pair of drive axles having equal axle ratios. Torque is transferred directly to the first drive axle and, when required, is transferred automatically to the second drive axle through a path including a freewheel device. Another path is provided in parallel with the freewheel device for torque transfer from the second drive axle to the first drive axle.

Abstract: An offset drive transfer mechanism incorporated in a multiple path drive system for a vehicle having plural pairs of traction wheels, the mechanism being a transfer case disposed between a source of input torque and at least a pair of drive axles, each associated with a pair of traction wheels. The transfer case includes an input member and a pair of parallel drive trains including a relatively low-speed high-torque gear drive train and a relatively high-speed low-torque chain drive train, and means for selectively engaging one of said drive trains as desired to provide power transfer as desired in either condition.