Abstract: An oil level sensor includes a sensor body adapted to be mounted to the block or casing of an oil-containing reservoir. A probe including a pair of electrodes forming a capacitor extends from the sensor body so that the capacitor will be at least partially immersed in the oil to detect the level thereof. At least one of the electrodes is insulated so that the apparent capacitance of the capacitor is relatively insensitive to any change in the conductivity of the oil at high temperatures. Circuitry is provided in response to the capacitance of the capacitor for signalling the level of the oil, which capacitance is a function of the oil level. The sensor body is mounted to the block by external threads on the probe. The electrodes of the probe extend proximally past the threads to provide an increased capacitance for the sensor. The electrodes of the probe are concentric and the inner electrode is supported at both ends to reduce fatigue.

Abstract: A hitch for connecting a trailer to a vehicle, especially a motorcycle or land-roving vehicle. The hitch comprises two couplings, including a conventional ball member adjacent one end, and a ball-bearing assembly located intermediate the ball member and the means for attaching the hitch to the vehicle. The ball-bearing assembly is capable of rotational movement about a horizontal axis for a full 360 degrees. The hitch thus provides unlimited rotational movement between the vehicle and the trailer in addition to the conventional pivotal movement provided by the ball member coupling.