Abstract: An apparatus for stabilizing a material handling vehicle which enables or disables a vehicle's suspension system. Pilot-to-open check valves are mounted on hydraulic cylinders secured between the axle and frame of the vehicle. In a first embodiment, a pneumatically actuated check valve is opened or closed to permit or prevent fluid communication between the hydraulic cylinders. The absence of pneumatic pressure in the pneumatic circuit causes the check valves to close, thereby locking the axle to the frame for stability. The presence of pneumatic pressure in the circuit opens the check valves to permit fluid communication between the cylinders. In an alternative embodiment, a second electro-hydraulic circuit is provided in place of the pneumatic circuit for opening and closing pilot-to-close check valves mounted on the hydraulic cylinders.

Abstract: An apparatus for stabilizing a material handling vehicle which enables or disables a vehicle's suspension system. Pilot-to-open check valves are mounted on hydraulic cylinders secured between the axle and frame of the vehicle. In a first embodiment, a pneumatically actuated check valve is opened or closed to permit or prevent fluid communication between the hydraulic cylinders. The absence of pneumatic pressure in the pneumatic circuit causes the check valves to close, thereby locking the axle to the frame for stability. The presence of pneumatic pressure in the circuit opens the check valves to permit fluid communication between the cylinders. In an alternative embodiment, a second electro-hydraulic circuit is provided in place of the pneumatic circuit for opening and closing pilot-to-close check valves mounted on the hydraulic cylinders.

Abstract: A coupler assembly for a material handling device is provided which accommodates convenient interchanging of work implements. The coupler assembly includes first and second latching arrangements which are provided on a frame member which is adapted to be mounted on the lift arm assembly of material handling device. Notably, the second latching arrangement includes an elongated bar having end portions which are deflectable with respect to the central portion of the bar. A pair of overcenter locking cams are provided for urging the respective end portions of the bar into recesses defined by hooks which are mounted on the implement to be mounted, thus facilitating convenient attachment of the implement to the lift arm assembly.

Abstract: A pressure-actuated electrical switch assembly is disclosed which includes a member for dampening the vibration experienced by the contact arm of the switch to prevent undesirable fatigue and breakage. The electrical switch is housed within a dome-like container having an entry port that is connected to a hydraulic circuit. The container is divided interiorly by a diaphragm assembly into upper and lower sealed chambers, the upper chamber having the electrical contacts for the switch and the lower chamber receiving fluid pressure through the entry port. A button actuator is fixed to the diaphragm, and it is movable vertically upward in response to fluid pressure in the lower chamber against the underside of the diaphragm which deflects the diaphragm thereby causing the button actuator to engage the cantilevered electrical contact arm which is mounted in the upper chamber.