Abstract: Valve arrangement includes a pilot operated load control valve fluidly having an energized unidirectional state allowing hydraulic fluid to pass from an outlet to an inlet and a de-energized unidirectional state allowing hydraulic fluid to pass from the inlet to the outlet. A pilot conduit is configured to direct pilot hydraulic fluid to actuate the load control valve. A connecting conduit fluidly connects the pilot conduit to the inlet, the connecting conduit including a flow restriction and a check valve configured to allow hydraulic fluid to flow only in a direction from the pilot conduit towards the inlet.

Abstract: An improved landscape rake including a rotatably operable rake mechanism for performing a raking function, a bucket for receiving material raked by the rake mechanism, and a fluid actuator connected to the rake mechanism operable for moving the rake mechanism relative to the bucket, the fluid actuator having a first port adapted for connection to a source of pressurized fluid for receiving the pressurized fluid therefrom for moving the rake mechanism to a position proximal to the bucket and a second port adapted for connection via a fluid path to a fluid receiver for discharging fluid thereto, the improvement including a fluid control system for the fluid actuator including a second fluid path connecting the first port of the fluid actuator with the first named fluid path and a valve disposed in the second fluid path operable for allowing fluid flow therethrough from the first port to the first named fluid path while preventing fluid flow from the first named fluid path to the first port to allow the rake mec

Abstract: A rotomolded hydraulic oil tank includes an integral dividing baffle which strengthens the tank structure, and diverts and slows returning oil for better air removal and oil mixing. This occurs by positioning the dividing baffle so that the top of the baffle is just below the oil level in the tank so that returning oil must flow a greater distance around the baffle at a reduced velocity thereby increasing the time the oil is in the tank before exiting the tank through the tank suction. The lower velocity of the oil and the increased passage time allows air in the returning oil more time to float to the surface of the oil in the tank.

Abstract: A braking apparatus includes a brake cylinder having a first opening and a second opening defined therein. The braking apparatus also includes a movable member located within the brake cylinder which has a channel defined therein. The braking apparatus further includes a brake chamber in fluid communication with the brake cylinder. The brake chamber has a brake member located therein. The movable member is moved to a position which allows fluid communication between the first and second opening through the channel thus creating a subsequent pressure drop in the system. The pressure drop causes a hydrostatic transmission in fluid communication with the brake apparatus to be neutralized by a responsive displacement of a pump and motor which reduces the travel speed of a vehicle. Additionally, the movement of the movable member causes a brake member to be forced against a moving object.

Abstract: Hydrostatic transmissions are useful for propelling a machine to do work and travel relative to the ground. In performing work functions and during travel it is desirable to adjust machine speed to aid in handling the machine. The subject hydrostatic transmission control system includes a infinitely adjustable creeper hand lever which can be moved to any desired position and be maintained in the selected position until moved by the operator. A spring biased inching pedal can be used in combination with the creeper lever to further adjust the machine speed. This arrangement of components provides a control system for the hydrostatic transmission which can be adjusted and maintained at a desired setting.

Abstract: A retaining bracket for detachably connecting a pump to the power take off shaft of a tractor. The bracket provides a torque restraint which is non-rigid and centrally positioned in substantial alignment with the longitudinal axis of the pump shaft so that angular moments of force which would tend to bend the pump shaft are avoided or resisted. The bracket includes a channel-shaped member having a telescopic web and no precision alignment is required to operationally mount and connect the pump to the tractor. The bracket includes a slidable connection to the tractor drawbar so that no tools are required for operational mounting.