Abstract: In the operation of machines such as landfill compactors it is common to provide a shear assembly that is mounted between the axle assembly and a wheel that is rotatably mounted thereon to sever material that would otherwise become entrained about the axle assembly. Material of relatively large gauge may become lodged within the shear assembly and create large loading forces between the wheel and the axle components that have been known to damage various drive train components. The present invention provides a cutting apparatus that has a first (34) and second shear blade (40) mounted to the axle assembly (10) and wheel (12) respectively. The second shear blade (40) is bolted (66,68,70) to the wheel (12) in a manner wherein selected ones of the mounting bolts (66,68,70) are sized in a manner in which forces of a preselected magnitude will shear the bolts (68,70) thus limiting the amount of force transmitted to the drive train components.

Abstract: A bearing and brake support assembly includes a drive shaft and a bearing assembly. The bearing assembly has an inner race and an outer race. The inner race is secured around the drive shaft. The bearing and brake support assembly further includes a one-piece housing having a central passage extending therethrough. The outer race of the bearing assembly is secured to the one-piece housing at a location within the central passage. The bearing and brake support assembly further includes a yoke secured to the drive shaft. The bearing and brake support assembly moreover includes a brake drum secured to the yoke. The bearing and brake support assembly also includes a brake shoe assembly secured to the one-piece housing. The brake shoe assembly cooperates with the brake drum so as to selectively prevent rotation of the drive shaft.

Abstract: Apparatus for securing and unloading wheeled vehicles. The apparatus has structure for receiving and maintaining first and second ends of the vehicle against movement on a flatcar. Portions of the structure maintaining the first end of the vehicle are pivotally movable for unloading the wheeled vehicle from the flatcar.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a pair of substantially horizontal frame members, each defining a pair of apertures disposed transversely of the vehicle. A protective structure includes a pair of upwardly extending members, each defining transverse apertures which are sized and positioned so as to come into registry with the pair of apertures defined by a side member associated therewith. Pins are removably positionable in these registered apertures, each pin being positioned generally transversely of the vehicle.