Abstract: A multiple piece device for preventing damage to automotive vehicles includes a mounting section that is secured to the vehicle and a cushioning piece that is separate and distinct from and releasably attached to the support section. The support section itself may include one or multiple pieces that are fastened to the cushioning piece in various ways.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the discharge of materials from a railcar having a hopper carried on a mobile frame. The hopper defines a longitudinally disposed discharge opening. The railcar has a door pivotally mounted for movement between an open position and a closed position relative to the discharge opening. The apparatus for controlling the discharge of materials from the railcar includes an operating shaft and a drive operably coupled between the door and the operating shaft for causing the door to move from the closed position toward the open position in response to rotation of the operating shaft. The drive also includes a lost motion connection for protecting the operating shaft as the door freely pivots toward the open position during collapsing movement of the lost motion connection and after the operating shaft has been rotated a predetermined amount to open the door.