Abstract: A master track chain connection for use on track chains of crawler tractors is disclosed. The master connection includes apparatus for independently securing the track shoe to the split master link thereof and for retaining or clamping the half-links of the split master links together. Separating the track shoe retention function from the half-link clamping function maintains clamping integrity in the event of bolt-loosening as the result of load induced slippage of the track shoe relative the link. The apparatus includes a first bolt threaded into a first threaded aperture for solely fastening the track shoe to the link and a second bolt threaded into a second threaded aperture for solely retaining the half-links together. A third bolt is preferably provided for jointly securing the track shoe to the link and for clamping the half-links together.

Abstract: In a track laying vehicle (10) a track tensioning apparatus wherein a track engaging idler (20) wheel is mounted to a cross member (82) for adjustment to tension the track by a piston (68) and cylinder (62). The cross member (82) is in turn adjustably (106) mounted to opposing sides (26,27) of the vehicle track frame. Acting in conjunction with the track tensioning apparatus an accumulator (130,146) is provided and is in fluid communication with the piston (68) and cylinder (62). The accumulator (130,146) exerts a backpressure upon the fluid so that the idler (20) may recoil in response to excessive tension or shock upon the track.

Abstract: An improved means for lubricating the compression seals of rotary engines. The system is provided in a typical rotary engine having a housing with a main shaft extending through the housing and a rotor within the housing and journalled on the main shaft. The rotor includes a bore receiving the shaft. Conventional means are provided for supplying lubricant to the interface of the main shaft and the rotor at the bore. The rotor carries at least one compression seal and is provided with a lubrication conduit for the seal extending from the bore to a surface of the rotor adjacent the seal. During operation of the engine, relative rotation between the rotor and the shaft takes place and generates a pumping action at the interface to drive small amounts of lubricant through the lubrication conduit to the rotor surface to lubricate the seal.