Abstract: A coupler for securing an attachment to an earth working machine. The coupler comprises a coupler body that presents a receptacle having a capture region. A pin of an attachment can move into and out of the capture region. A retainer can capture the pin in the capture region but the retainer can be moved by a hydraulically driven driver to a position to allow release of the pin from the capture region. A trigger that the pin will strike when the pin moves into or out of the capture region, decouples the driver from the retainer and the retainer is then allowed to be biased back to its retaining position by a spring.

Abstract: A system and method for attaching implements to skid steer machines having different implement mounting configurations. The implements include or are separately provided with a securement frame defining a mini skid steer pocket engageable with a mini skid steer mount and a larger standard skid steer pocket engageable with a standard skid steer mount. The mini pocket is located between the implement and the standard pocket. A passage opening extends through the standard pocket where through the mini pocket is accessible. For attaching the implement to a mini skid steer, the mini skid steer mount is inserted through the passage opening and engages the mini skid steer pocket while the standard skid steer pocket remains unused. For attaching the implement to a standard skid steer, the standard skid steer mount is inserted directly into and engages the standard skid steer pocket while the mini skid steer pocket remains unused.

Abstract: A modular skid mounted oil production system, comprising multiple skid sections that are connectable via alignment pins coupled to the skid beam structure. The alignment pins having a fork connector that is connected to a knife connector. When the skid sections are connected, the piping, electrical, and pneumatic tubing connectors are connectable to the other corresponding skid piping, electrical, and pneumatic tubing connectors without the need for welding or field construction of connecting components. The modular skid oil production system is capable of expansion or contraction as required by the operation of the system. For example the system includes removing a skid section having a larger separator and replacing it with a skid section having a smaller separator, without the need of welding or field construction of connecting components.

Abstract: A quick hitch for mounting an implement on a machine. The quick hitch has at least one lug for connection to a machine and a securing mechanism for securing the quick hitch to an implement. The quick hitch also has at least one removable plate for engagement with a surface of an implement.

Abstract: A pair of mower deck lifting ramps are mounted to a top surface of a mower deck for supporting a pair of tractor tires to ride over belts and pulleys on one side of the deck. A first carrier engagement member and a second carrier engagement member are attached to each drive-over ramp. The first and second carrier engagement members engage the upper and lower parts of a carrier attached to a lift arm of a loader to raise and turn the mower deck.

Abstract: A front loader includes a mast, and a mounting bracket that defines a channel configured to receive a mounting frame of a work vehicle. The front loader includes a latch disposed within the channel and pivotally coupled to the mounting bracket, and the latch is pivotable between a first, latched position configured to couple the mast to the mounting frame, and a second, unlatched position. The front loader includes a latching lever disposed within the channel and coupled to the latch. The latching lever is configured to move the latch between the first, latched position and the second, unlatched position based on a position of the mounting frame. The front loader includes an indicator lever coupled to the latch. The indicator lever is movable by the latch to indicate whether the latch is in the first, latched position or the second, unlatched position.

Abstract: A counterweight system includes a bracket and a counterweight. The bracket includes a base configured to couple to a vehicle and at least one arm extending from the base. The counterweight is coupled to the at least one arm. The counterweight is configured to be at least one of (i) pivotally repositionable, (ii) extensionally repositionable, and (iii) translationally repositionable relative to the vehicle.

Abstract: An excavator tool attaching mechanism includes a housing having a pair of housing walls; a fixed engagement member for engaging with a first coupling pin of an excavator tool; a moveable engagement mechanism for engaging with a second coupling pin of the excavator tool; and a safety mechanism moveable between a locked and an unlocked configuration. The moveable engagement mechanism includes an engaging element moveable between a first position for releasing the excavator tool and a second position for engagement with the second coupling pin. The safety mechanism is automatically moved from the unlocked to the locked configuration by movement of the engaging element from the first to the second position, preventing movement of the engaging element between the second and first position. The engaging element is moveable to the second position when the moveable engagement mechanism engages with the second coupling pin.

Abstract: A modular counterweight system includes a housing, a bracket, and an actuator. The housing is configured to selectively interface with a plurality of counterweights, facilitating incremental adjustment of an overall weight of the modular counterweight system. The bracket is configured to couple the housing to the vehicle, and the housing is at least one of (i) pivotally coupled to the bracket, (ii) extensionally coupled to the bracket, and (iii) translationally coupled to the bracket. The actuator is positioned to selectively reconfigure at least one of the housing and the bracket and thereby change the center of gravity of the modular counterweight system.

Abstract: A system and method for detachably securing an attachment to a zero-turn utility vehicle such as a zero-turn, stand-on mower. The system includes a mounting assembly provided on a hydraulically operated support member on the utility vehicle's frame; and a connector assembly provided on the attachment. The mounting assembly includes a pivotable plate member that is inserted into the complementary shaped connector assembly. The plate member includes a locking rod at an upper end. The connector assembly has side walls and a top wall that surround the plate member when the mounting assembly is engaged with the connector assembly. The top wall overhangs and captures the locking rod between the top wall and a back wall of the attachment. A locking mechanism secures the mounting assembly and connector assembly together. Moving the attachment is accomplished by actuating the hydraulic system on the utility vehicle to move the support member.

Abstract: A system includes an agricultural conveyor system including an inner arm having a first end. The first end is configured to rotatably couple to an agricultural storage system. The agricultural conveyor system also includes an outer arm having a first end, a second end, and a pivot positioned between the first end and the second end. In certain embodiments, the first end of the outer arm is coupled to a mounting element, a second end of the inner arm is rotatably coupled to the outer arm at the pivot, and an agricultural conveyor is configured to rotatably couple to the second end of the outer arm. The agricultural conveyor system includes a rotation control assembly. The rotation control assembly is configured to couple to the agricultural storage system. The agricultural conveyor system also includes an intermediate link having a first end engaged with the rotation control assembly and a second end.

Abstract: A driving assist unit of a truck for assisting a driving force applied to the truck by a worker includes a unit body connected to the truck, the unit body being turnable with respect to the truck, an operation portion provided on the unit body, the operation portion being configured to input a driving force to the truck through the unit body by being pressed by the worker, a driving wheel provided on the unit body, the driving wheel being rotatable in a longitudinal direction of the unit body, an assist force according to the operation of the operation portion being applied to the driving wheel, a lower engagement mechanism configured to be engaged with a connecting rod, the connecting being provided protruding to an outside from the truck and perpendicularly with respect to a ground, the lower engagement mechanism being slidable in an axial direction with respect to the connecting rod, and an upper engagement mechanism provided above the lower engagement mechanism and configured to be engaged with the connec

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for engaging and/or securing a generally vertical member of a vehicle or other object are provided. The apparatus includes a second plate secured to a first plate and rotatably moveable with respect to the first plate. The first plate has a throat for accommodating the generally vertical member of the vehicle or other object, and a notch angularly displaced from the throat. The second plate has a first arm that extends across the throat to secure the generally vertical member within, and a second arm that moves into alignment with the notch, concurrent with movement of the second plate. When the second arm is aligned with the notch, a biased latch can be urged to engage the notch to secure the second plate in a generally fixed orientation relative to the first plate, thereby securing the vehicle or other object.

Abstract: A support frame assembly for supporting a plow, or another front-mounted implement, on a small vehicle such as an all-terrain vehicle (“ATV”) is provided. The frame assembly comprises a front portion and a rear portion. The front portion is typically raised with respect to the rear portion, allowing the plow to be pivotally attached to the front of the frame assembly at a higher location. The rear portion comprises a locking mechanism allowing the frame assembly to be easily mounted to the underside of the vehicle. A releasing mechanism, operatively connected to the locking mechanism, allows for the easy removal of the frame assembly from the vehicle.

Abstract: An arrangement for fixing a work piece (14) to an end of a boom (1) in a working machine, like an excavator, in which arrangement the end of the boom comprises at least a tilting device (13) for the work piece (14), the moveable body of said device can be limitedly tilted in relation to the end of the boom (1) and to the moveable body of said device the work piece (14) is fixed either directly or by fitting a device (10), (11) of an other type as a distance piece, said device adjusting position of the work piece (14).

Abstract: A wheel loader includes a bucket boom including a pair of left and right side members; a front frame to which the base ends of the pair of side members are coupled; and a boom cylinder of which a base end is coupled to the front frame and a distal end is coupled to the side members. A base-end interval between the pair of side members is smaller than a distal-end interval between the side members. A face section that inclines towards a middle as extending in an upwards direction is provided on the left and right extremities of the front frame. A mounting boss to which the base end of the boom cylinder is attached is provided on a lower side of the face section while a mounting boss to which the base ends of the side members are attached is provided on an upper side of the face section.

Abstract: A snow pusher attachment for use in conjunction with a straight blade angle-type snow plow mounted to a work vehicle. This pusher allows a work vehicle to capture, contain, and relocate large amounts of snow very quickly and efficiently. The attachment consists of side panels, connected by horizontal members between. This pusher attachment is secured to the snow plow by bracket assemblies, attached to the upper edge of the snow plow that engage hooks on the upper, rear portion of the pusher attachment. The attachment does not require the operator to exit the work vehicle to secure or release it from the snowplow. Accordingly, the attachment allows the quick and repeated conversion of a snow plow into a snow pusher box and visa versa.

Abstract: A snow pusher attachment for use in conjunction with a straight blade angle-type snow plow mounted to a work vehicle is disclosed. The attachment consists of side panels, connected by horizontal members. The pusher attachment is secured to the snow plow by bracket assemblies, attached to the upper edge of the snow plow that engage hooks on the upper, rear portion of the pusher attachment. The pusher can be secured or released from the snowplow by manipulation of the plow blade allowing quick and repeated conversion of a snow plow into a snow pusher box and visa versa.

Abstract: A work machine includes a frame and a front latch system carried by the frame at a front end of the work machine. The latch system includes a pair of laterally spaced, generally horizontally oriented slots, with each slot defined by an upper edge and a lower edge. The upper edge is longer than the lower edge and extends forward of the lower edge. A loader includes a pair of laterally spaced braces, with each brace having a distal end configured for contacting the ground when the loader is detached from the frame. A cross member coupled between the braces is received within the slots of the front latch system.

Abstract: A plow hitch assembly comprising a hitch frame, a lift frame pivotally connected to the back end of the hitch frame, and a back end effector for mounting to a vehicle. The back end effector has an associated latching device and a distinctly actuated device for locking the latch. A stop surface is situated on the latch, and a selectively displaceable lock block supported by the lift frame, abuts the stop surface to prevent rotation of the latch. Each of two uniformly rectangular mounting arms extends from the back of the lift frame, preferably with a leading end having a pair of vertically oriented rollers at the corners. Each guide has a rectangular main channel conforming in cross section with the arm when the arm is fully inserted into the channel and an entry that is larger in cross sectional area than the front of the arm.

Abstract: An automatically actuating apparatus for engaging an implement to an ASAE S278.6 three-point hitch quick coupler utilizing a pivoting motion about an upper hitch point and an automatic latching mechanism to engage and retain lower hitch pins that simplifies connection of an implement. The mechanism also includes a mechanism for automatically engaging the PTO driveline between a tractor and a powered implement as the implement is engaged with the hitch.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a working implement, such as a snowplow, that can be attached to a vehicle. The assembly contains its own power source, and is controlled remotely, such as wirelessly. This combination allows the operator of the vehicle to lift and lower the jack on the unattached working implement as required without exiting the vehicle. In one embodiment, the system further includes wireless remote control operation of the headlights and blinkers, thereby eliminating another physical connection that typically exists between the vehicle and the working implement. The wireless remote control operation of the jack enables proper positioning of the lift frame relative to the vehicle chassis for easy mounting and dismounting thereto. In certain embodiments, the engagement of the assembly's connection mechanism with the vehicle, such as with a receiver on the vehicle, creates an electrical connection that enables communication between the assembly and controls for the assembly.

Abstract: An arrangement for the attachment or detachment of a loader assembly or similar implement from a tractor includes a first member adapted to be received by a tractor, a second member adjustably connected to the first member, the second member adapted to receive the implement, and a third member also adapted to be received by the tractor, the third member mounted to the first member for movement between first and second positions relative to the tractor, movement of the third member from its first position into its second position causing transformation of the third member into an upright portion that assists in stabilization of the first and second members and the implement against the ground.

Abstract: Method and apparatus to simplify the process of adding a loader to a tractor after the manufacturing process. A pair of mounting brackets, one on each side of the tractor, each comprises a front piece and a rear piece. The rear piece is affixed to the tractor during the manufacturing process and the front piece, including a bearing surface for a transverse support axis of a loader, is selectively affixed to the respective rear piece and tractor when a decision to incorporate a loader is taken.

Abstract: A front end loader is provided according to the invention. The front end loader includes a forward bracket assembly and a rear bracket assembly, a tower that attaches to the rear bracket assembly, and a tower subframe that attaches to the forward bracket assembly. The tower has a first tower end and a second tower end. The second tower end includes a shoe area for attaching to a shoe-receiving region provided on the first bracket assembly. The tower subframe has a first tower subframe end and a second tower subframe end. The first tower subframe end is attached to the tower, and the second tower subframe end is constructed for attachment to the second bracket assembly. A spring can be provided as part of the rear bracket assembly to reduce rattling between the tower and the rear bracket assembly. The rear bracket assembly can be referred to as the first bracket assembly, and the forward bracket assembly can be referred to as the second bracket assembly.

Abstract: A working vehicle with a front-end loader comprises: a vehicle body; a right and left pair of support decks each extending transversely of the vehicle body and fixed at an inward end thereof to the vehicle body; boom supporting members each erected on an outward end of one of the support decks; a boom pivotably connected at one end thereof to upper positions of the boom supporting members and having a working implement attached to the other end thereof; a boom cylinder extending between one of the boom supporting members and the boom for swinging the boom; mounting elements each provided for one of the boom supporting members and partially protruding outward from the one of the boom supporting members; and connecting frames each fixed at one end thereof to the vehicle body, and fixed at the other end thereof to one of the mounting elements.

Abstract: An assembly for detachably connecting an implement having a pair of mounting pins to a machine provided with a dipper stick having a pair of side walls and a mounting pin and a pair of tilt links each having a mounting pin, generally consisting of a first component including a first pair of elongated members each mountable on a side wall of the dipper stick and having an opening for receiving therethrough an end portion of the mounting pin of the dipper stick, means for detachably securing a portion thereof to the dipper stick, means for detachably securing one of the mounting pins of the implement thereto, and means interconnecting such elongated members; and a second component including a second pair of elongated members, each mountable on a side of one of the tilt links, and having an opening for receiving therethrough an end portion of the mounting pin of such one tilt link, means for detachably securing a portion thereof to such one tilt link, means for detachably securing the other of the mounting pins

Abstract: A TLB includes a tractor body, a reinforcing frame disposed around the tractor body and supported by the tractor body, a pair of right and left side frames for pivotably supporting a pair of right and left booms having a loader bucket attached to distal ends thereof, and braces for connecting the side frames to the tractor body. The side frames are connected to the reinforcing frames by at least two connecting bosses attached to the side frames, at least two connecting bosses attached to the reinforcing frame, and pins inserted through bores of the connected bosses and bores of the connecting bosses. Rear positions of the reinforcing frame are attached to cylindrical portions of rear axle cases by holders rotatable about an axis of the cylindrical portions, and mounting members for connecting the holders to the reinforcing frame, respectively.

Abstract: The device for rapid tool coupling and release on tool arms comprises a first rapid-attachment organ associated to a tool arm and is provided with at least one tooth and with hollow coupling seatings destined to couple in seatings and also with at least one pivot predisposed on the tool. The rapid-attachment organ is provided with at least a portion of coupling surface destined to couple on contact with at least a portion of plane on the seatings; the coupling surface is oriented in such a way that a perpendicular thereof does not intersect an axis of the pivot coupled in a hollow seating.

Abstract: A mounting frame 10 is intended to be used with a three point hitch apparatus 4 on the rear of powered vehicle, such as a tractor. The frame 10 is rectangular so that the center is open to permit clearance for a power take off. A ball socket 20 is mounted on a horizontal lower frame beam 12 for attachment of a towed vehicle to the powered vehicle. The top of the frame 10 is attached to the tractor by a telescoping arm 60 that can be extended from a retracted to an extended position so that the frame 10 can be tilted or dumping or similar operations. A ball adaptor 34 can be mounted in the center of the mounting frame 10 to permit attachment of a towed implement or vehicle with a male attachment member, such as a ball. A center beam 78 can also be mounted on the center of the mounting frame 10 for supporting and carrying loads. The mounting frame 10 facilitates towing, hauling, dumping, scraping and is compatible with a power takeoff as used for conventional farm implements.

Abstract: A hitch assembly provides removable connection of a plow assembly to a push beam assembly installed on a vehicle. The hitch assembly includes a draw latch assembly which engages the push beam assembly and pulls the plow assembly into position for pivotal attachment of the plow assembly to the vehicle. The draw latch assembly is activated by a power source, such as an hydraulic cylinder, and is further interconnected with a lift arm assembly such that further extension or activation of the hydraulic cylinder results in a raising or lowering of the plow blade. Also included is an easy connection and release mechanism for inserting and retracting pivot pins through corresponding brackets on the lift arm assembly and push beam assembly. A light tower assembly is removably attached to the push beam assembly such that when the plow is not in use, only the push beam assembly and its mounting brackets remain on the vehicle in a position below and rearward of a front bumper of the vehicle.

Abstract: A reinforcing frame structure for coupling a front loader (6) to a front region of a tractor body (5) and a working implement to a rear region thereof. The reinforcing frame structure (8) includes right and left frames (13) arranged laterally of the tractor body (5) and extending longitudinally thereof, a first cross bar (14) for rigidly interconnecting the right and left frames in rearward positions thereof, a rear connecting mechanism (12) formed integrally with the rearward positions of the right and left frames to be connectable to a rear axle case (18) of the tractor body from below, a working implement coupling mechanism (11) for coupling the working implement, a loader coupling mechanism (9) for coupling the front loader, and a front connecting mechanism (16) for connecting forward regions of the right and left frames to the tractor body.

Abstract: A tractor for use with a front loader connected thereto has a pair of mast mounts for detachably attaching right and left masts of the front loader, a pair of braces for coupling the mast mounts to the tractor, and a weight mount for carrying a plurality of weights. The braces have distal ends thereof connected to the weight mount. A spacing L1 between the distal ends of the braces is smaller than a spacing L2 between proximal ends thereof. Consequently, the braces are arranged to avoid their interference with front wheel steering. With the weight mount acting also as a brace support, the weight mount has an increased supporting strength.

Abstract: Apparatus for coupling a front end loader to a tractor comprising a longitudinally extending loader mounting frame for pivotally supporting a pair of loader boom arms. The frame comprises a pair of transversely spaced support arms, and a pair of forwardly extending members affixed to the support arms. A pair of front mounting pins extend from the tractor for coupling the forwardly extending members of the frame to the front of the tractor. A pair of rear mounting pins extending from the tractor, cooperate with a latch assembly for coupling each transversely spaced support arm to a corresponding mounting pin under conditions where the forwardly extending members are coupled to the tractor. The latch assembly includes a notch in each of the support arms for receiving a mounting pin and a latch plate for holding the pin in the notch under conditions where the pin is received by the notch.

Abstract: A mechanism for coupling an implement to an arm.

Abstract: A loader attachment 30 is mounted on or dismounted from a tractor 12 by connecting uprights 36 and 38 to socket assemblies 32 and 34 or releasing the uprights from the socket assemblies. A boom assembly 40 is pivotally attached to the uprights 36 and 38 by pins 42. Both lift cylinders 104 and 112 pivot the boom assembly 40 relative to the uprights 36 and 38. The socket assemblies 32 and 34 are rigidly secured to the tractor 12. The connection is made by moving the troughs 128 into engagement with the pins 180 and then rotating the uprights 36 and 38 about the pins 180 until the vertical surfaces 142 and 150 on the upright wedges 140 and 148 contact the vertical surfaces 192 on the socket wedges 190 and the inclined surfaces 144 and 152 on the upright wedges 140 and 148 engage the inclined surfaces 194 on the socket wedges 190. The locking pins 186 are then inserted through bushings 184 and bores 134 to lock the uprights 36 and 38 to the sockets 32 and 34. The procedure is reversed for dismounting.

Abstract: A quick coupling apparatus for detachably securing an implement such as a bucket, air or hydraulic hammer, tamper or any other attachment to a vehicle having a lifting and tilting mechanism such as an excavator. The apparatus includes a pair of hinge plates secured to the implement and two associated link assemblies adapted for mounting on the lifting and tilting mechanism of the vehicle and which engage and disengage the hinge plates to detachably secure the implement to the vehicle.

Abstract: A loader includes a pair of rear supports projecting transversely outwardly from a longitudinally extending tractor frame. The rear supports are square in cross section. The loader further includes a pair of posts having receptacles at the bottoms thereof which are received about the rear supports when the posts are in upright dispositions, the receptacles, as viewed from the side, being delimited by front and rear contact surfaces that are engaged with locations below and closer together than a major dimension of the associated support so as to secure the posts to the support. When a latch at the front of the loader is released for permitting removal of the loader, lift cylinders of the loader may be operated to cause the posts to swing forwardly and to be lifted away from an associated support once the receptacles are in positions permitting such movement.

Abstract: An improved quick coupler for attaching a tool to an excavator includes a body of a pair of spaced parallel plates providing structure for fixed attachment of the coupler to an end of the excavator. The plates define a first slot with an opening facing in a first direction to engage upon a first tool and a second slot with an opening facing in a second direction to engage a parallel second tool pin upon the tool. The body has a third plate between the spaced parallel plates. The coupler has a latch for securing the second pin in the second slot, the latch including a coupler gate rotatably mounted on an axis transverse to the second pin axis to pivot about the axis between a first position with the pin secured in the second slot by the gate and a second position with the gate clear of the second slot. A latch lever rotatably mounted on the coupler gate has a handle for moving the lever and a tab for engaging a third slot in the third plate.

Abstract: An apparatus for coupling a tractor's three point hitch system to a ground working implement comprises a U-shaped frame mountable at one end to the hitch system and having rearwardly open grooves formed in its other end. An automatically locking and quick release latch assembly is mounted between the walls of the frame and responds automatically to movement of an implement's latch pins into the grooves to capture and lock the latch pins in place so that the implement can be pulled by the tractor. For release of the implement, a simple tug on a cord attached to the latch assembly releases the latch pins of the implement so that the tractor can simply pull away from the decoupled implement.

Abstract: A tractor-mounted loader has a quick coupler mounted to forward ends of the boom arms thereof. The quick coupler includes a pair of attachment holders having their lower ends respectively pivotally connected to the pair of arms and selectively pivotable by a pair of attachment tilt cylinders. An attachment in the form of a bucket includes a pair of connecting brackets including pins engageable by recesses in the upper ends of the holders and receptacles for receiving coupler elements carried by the holders. A pair of latch mechanisms are respectively carried by the pair of brackets and include spring-loaded latch pins which normally assume a latch position blocking passage of the coupler elements to or from the receptacles but which include ramp surfaces that cooperate with ramp surfaces of the coupler elements to cause the pins to be automatically moved from their latch positions to permit passage of the coupler elements into the receptacles during mounting of the attachment to the attachment holders.

Abstract: A quick-attach coupler for attaching an implement such as a bucket (15) to a machine such as a front end loader or backhoe. The coupler includes attachment structure (25, 29) for attaching the coupler to the machine, upper receiving structure (20) for receiving an upper coupling structure (18) on the implement and lower receiving structure (19) for receiving a lower coupling structure (17) on the implement. The lower receiving structure has an opening including a locating formation in the form of a threshold (19a) which retains the lower coupling structure (17) in the lower receiving structure, and latch structure (34) associated with the upper receiving structure (20) retain the upper coupling structure (18) within the upper receiving structure (20) and prevent the lower coupling structure (17) disengaging the locating formation (19a) of the lower receiving structure thus maintaining the attachment of the implement on the coupler.

Abstract: A coupling is used for releasably connecting tools to the articulated arm of excavators and other heavy duty equipment. The coupling includes a first coupling member, a second coupling member, a locking member provided on the first coupling member and movable between lock and release positions, a spring arranged between the first coupling member and the locking member for urging the locking member into the lock position, and a hydraulically operated release mechanism provided on the first coupling member for moving the locking member into the release position in opposition to the force of the spring. Hydraulic fluid at a pressure relief pressure level is applied through a first non-return valve to release the locking member and permit detachment of one tool and attachment of another tool; the pressurized hydraulic fluid is then returned through a second non-return valve to return the locking member into the lock position, thereby retaining the newly attached tool under pressure of the spring.

Abstract: A universal tractor loader bracket kit is described which enables a basic set of brackets to accommodate various other bracket components thereon to enable the basic set of brackets to accommodate various types of tractor loaders.

Abstract: A tractor has a three-point link assembly comprising a top link and opposed lower links which are connected together by a connecting assembly at their ends toward a working implement. The connecting assembly comprises an upper connector and lower connectors removably in engagement with corresponding connectable portions of the implement. The PTO shaft of the tractor is connected to an input shaft of the implement by an extendable transmission shaft having a pair of tractor joint and implement joint at its opposite ends. The connecting assembly has a clutch for separably operatively connecting an externally splined portion of the implement input shaft to an internally splined portion of the implement joint. The clutch comprises a guide fixed to the connecting assembly and extending substantially longitudinally of the tractor, a tubular case provided in the guide movably axially thereof and an operating assembly for the case. The implement joint is inserted in the case.

Abstract: An automatic, adjustable, quick attaching loader mechanism for fastening load carrying implements to the loader arms of end loading tractors. This mechanism provides two slots for receiving transverse positioning pins located in standard positions on the rear of various type of load bearing implements such as forks or scoops. A pivoting latch serves to lock the implement securely in position while a slidable lock holds the pivot latch in position. While the security of some attaching mechanism of this type may become suspect after long and continuous use due to the enlargement of the lower slots from wear, an adjusting mechanism is provided for maintaining a secure relation between the slidable lock and the pivot latch, thereby enabling the attaching mechanism to maintain various load carrying implements in a securely locked position throughout the life of the attaching mechanism.

Abstract: The trailer hitch comprises a channel-shaped body having a bottom wall containing therein two longitudinally offset holes and an elongated slot located forwardly of said holes. Associated with the slot is a trigger mechanism that can be rotated into a perpendicular relationship with the bottom wall of the channel-shaped body so as to flex a resilient strip downwardly. The resilient strip has mounted thereon a U-shaped rod that provides a pair of pins that project upwardly from the upper side of said strip, the pins being aligned with the holes in the bottom wall.

Abstract: An improved coupler or hitch assembly of the latch plate type. Angled jaws on the coupler act together with ramps or angled arms on the equipment secured by the coupler to forgive vertical or horizontal misalignment during the coupling operation. The assembly has an automatically engaging latch plate which is held in a closed position by a lock pin. The lock pin also provides frictional restraint for holding the plate in an open position. A lock pin holding mechanism allows relatively unresisted movement of the latch plate from an open to a closed position. Movement of the latch plate is also controlled by a limit tab on the coupler to prevent the lock pin from interfering with the coupler operation.

Abstract: A hinged snowplow includes a T-shaped support frame for attachment to a vehicle, the support frame having a free end. A cowling having a pair of extending plow blades pivotally secured thereto, is pivotally secured to the free end so as to pivot in a generally vertical plane about the free end. The cowling has a first stop engageable with the support frame to limit pivotal movement of the cowling about the frame to a first or normal plowing position. A second stop on the cowling is engageable with the support frame to limit the pivotal movement of the cowling about the frame to a second or tipped position. A trip bias mechanism between the frame and the cowling biases the cowling and plow blades to the first position in which the blades are normally positioned for plowing. The cowling and blades are rotated against the trip bias mechanism toward the second, tipped position when the blades hit an obstacle.

Abstract: A connecting and coupling arrangement for frontal attachment to a tractor includes at least one lower link, an actuating means, an angle lever, an optional upper link and a lift strut for connection to an item of equipment. Connected to the working vehicle is a frame which can slidably carry an ancillary frame which can be connected to an item of equipment or to a weight. In addition, the frame and the ancillary frame may be displaced in the direction of the longitudinal center plane of the tractor to increase the stability thereof.