Abstract: This invention teaches an improved high capacity frictional shock-absorbing assembly. The assembly comprises a housing with a first threaded member which is fitted therein for axial movement. A second threaded member is rotatably-fitted in the housing, but is restricted against axial movement. The first and second members are designed with compatible threaded surfaces for frictional engagement therebetween. A compression member is provided within the housing. The compression member is in engagement with the first threaded member to resist the axial movement of the first threaded member as it moves in a direction that will compress the such compression member.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a draft gear assembly including a housing having a front and a rear portion. A compressible cushioning element is positioned in the rear portion with a seat arrangement abutting one end thereof. A friction cushioning element having a pair of outer stationary plates with a Brinell through hardness of between about 277 and 321. The assembly also includes a spring release device for continuously urging the friction cushioning element outwardly from the compressible cushioning element to release the friction cushioning element after compression of the draft gear assembly.

Abstract: A hand brake including a lock-up and release clutch mechanism, a ratchet rotatable by a hand wheel connected thereto through a drive shaft, a nut screw-threadedly arranged on the shaft and effective, upon rotation of the wheel and shaft in one direction, for advancing on the nut on the shaft to cause the ratchet to be clamped between respective friction surfaces of the nut and friction plates carried on the shaft. Rotation of the shaft causes rotation of a pinion which, in turn, rotates a gear associated with a chain drum to effect chain take-up and, therefore, application of the brakes. A holding pawl prevents rotation of the ratchet in a release direction. Rotation of the hand wheel in an opposite direction effects release of the clutch mechanism and consequently relaxation of tension on the chain for effecting a gradual release of the brakes. Quick release of the brakes is effected by a lever which, by rotation, causes disengagement of the collar from the pinion.

Abstract: Apparatus for circumferentially crimping the annular opposite ends of a cylindrical overtravel spring housing used in a slack adjuster and for maintaining the overtravel spring assembly in assembled relation and an overtravel spring therein in a compressed state. The apparatus includes a three-jaw lathe-type power chuck fixed to a support frame vertically opposite a power cylinder supported on another portion of the frame. The overtravel spring assembly is placed on a post member, fixed concentrically in the chuck, and held fast by the power cylinder when pressurized. With the spring assembly secured in the apparatus, a plurality of crimping blades carried on the jaws of the chuck are actuated to crimp a first annular end of the spring assembly housing, then removing the spring assembly and turning it over in the apparatus to crimp the other end of the housing, thereby securing the spring assembly in assembled relation.

Abstract: A ratchet operated chain-type hand brake for railway vehicles characterized by a housing for enclosing the ratchet mechanism and a chain wind-up drum. The ratchet mechanism includes an operating pawl for taking up the chain and a holding pawl for holding the chain take-up, both pawls being in constant engagement with a single ratchet to eliminate lost motion of the operating handle.