Abstract: A belt splicer includes a pair of decks, each configured to hold a belt end. At least one of the decks is movable along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the belt ends to impart a shearing force at the at least partially molten interface between the belt ends. The movement of at least one of the at least partially molten mating edges generally parallel to the interface facilitates formation of an improved joint between the belt ends.

Abstract: A vehicle suspension assembly that includes first and second main beams each having a first end operably coupled to a vehicle frame, and a second end having a cavity formed therein, and first and second extension members each having an aperture extending therethrough, wherein the first and second extensions are interference-fit within and extend outwardly from the cavity of the first and second main beams, respectively. The assembly further including a torsion member having apertured first and second ends that receive the first and second extension members therein, and threaded mechanical fasteners extending through the apertures of the first and second extension members and engage nuts that are frictionally engaged by the first and second main beams.

Abstract: A vehicle suspension assembly that includes first and second main beams each having a first end operably coupled to a vehicle frame, and a second end having a cavity formed therein, and first and second extension members each having an aperture extending therethrough, wherein the first and second extensions are interference-fit within and extend outwardly from the cavity of the first and second main beams, respectively. The assembly further including a torsion member having apertured first and second ends that receive the first and second extension members therein, and threaded mechanical fasteners extending through the apertures of the first and second extension members and engage nuts that are frictionally engaged by the first and second main beams.

Abstract: A latching mechanism includes a latch member pivotally connected with a mounting bracket for movement between latched and released positions, together with a spring clutch device that normally permits pivotal movement of the latch member toward the latched position. The latch member includes a cam surface that is operable by a striker member to displace the latch member from the released position to the latched position as the striker member is displaced toward the mounting bracket (for example, during the closure movement of a hood component to which the striker member is attached). A release device serves to operate the spring clutch to a released condition, whereupon the latch member is spring-biased toward the released position, thereby to unlock the striker member from the mounting bracket.

Abstract: A soft-release lever-operated control system for parking brake cables is disclosed including a helical main clutch spring arrangement permitting movement of the operating lever only toward the brake-engaged position, and a release device for releasing the main clutch spring to permit return of the operating lever toward the brake-released position. According to another embodiment of the invention, a second helical clutch spring arrangement is provided that is activated when the operating cable is returned to the brake-released position, thereby to activate a cable tension adjusting device that removes slack contained in the inner brake cable operating member. According to a further embodiment, a push-to-release arrangement including a toggle pawl and spring device is operable upon tapping of the operating lever to place the system in a brake-released condition.