Abstract: A vehicle chassis comprises two longitudinal side rails (10, 12). A first cross member (14) extends in a transverse direction between the front ends of the side rails (10, 12) and a second cross member (20) extends in a transverse direction between the central portions of the side rails. The chassis further comprises two secondary longitudinal members (22, 24) extending between the first cross member (14) and the second cross member (20), and the secondary longitudinal members are each connected to the side rails by means of a central support section (28, 30) which is longitudinally spaced between the first and second cross members (14, 20). The structure provides rigid support for the vehicle suspension and for a eye recovery (42), and crumples in a controlled way on frontal impact.

Abstract: A vehicle chassis assembly includes a frame assembly having a plurality of frame members connected together, a drivetrain, a suspension system, and an exhaust system. The connection of the frame members provides a low-profile configuration for reduced step height and a kick-up portion to allow ascent of steeper inclines. The frame further includes an exhaust pipe supported within a frame member and two castings bolted to removable wheel arches. The exhaust pipe has a circular cross-section that changes to a rectangular cross-section near the back of the chassis assembly.

Abstract: A straddle-type three-wheeled vehicle has a frame having an upper frame member, a lower frame member, a forward cross member interconnecting a forward portion of the upper frame member with a forward portion of the lower frame member, and a rearward cross member interconnecting a rearward portion of the upper frame member with a rearward portion of the lower frame member. A strut extends diagonally from the forward cross member to the lower frame member. The vehicle has an engine mounted to the frame. An air box of the vehicle has at least a portion thereof disposed above at least a portion of the engine. A fuel tank of the vehicle is disposed rearwardly of the air box.

Abstract: An off-road vehicle has a frame and at least one wheel. A suspension arm suspends the wheel from the frame. The frame includes at least one horizontal member that extends generally horizontally fore to aft. A set of retainers are attached to the horizontal member. The retainers are spaced apart from each other fore to aft. The retainers swingably retain the suspension arm therebetween.

Abstract: An articulated loader has an articulated chassis and two A-frames. The points of the A-frames face each other. The articulated chassis includes a front portion and a rear portion. Likewise, there is a front or first A-frame and a rear or second A-frame. The A-frames are connected to the overall chassis at points close to but offset from the point of vehicle articulation via ball joints and via hydraulic suspension cylinders toward the wider portions of the “A”s. The vehicle is propelled along the ground by tracks that are independently suspended. The A-frames are of approximate equal length along the axis of the vehicle and the ball joints are located as close as practical to the articulation joint. Thus, any vertical forces at the ball joints due to variations in tractive efforts for the vehicle tend to be equal and opposite in direction and to, therefore, minimize any chassis height variations.

Abstract: A head hauler has a movable longitudinal rail that is movable without tools in vertical elevation and transverse horizontal position. The movable longitudinal rail is supported by two support assemblies, each of which contains a bracket having an upper sloped surface, a screw, a coupling attached to the bracket, a threaded coupling through which the screw passes, an underlying plate that is attached to the threaded coupling, and a means for attaching the plate to the movable longitudinal rail.

Abstract: A cross-member for supporting a vehicle chassis loads includes a generally shaped member including: i) a generally flat top sheet; ii) a first side sheet extending at an angle from the top sheet, along a length of the top sheet at a location inset from a first side edge of the top sheet such that the top sheet overhangs the first side sheet; iii) a second side sheet extending at an angle from the top sheet, along a length of the top sheet at a location inset from a second side edge of the top sheet such that the top sheet overhangs the second side sheet.

Abstract: A release outlet (52) of a release pipe (51) of a relief valve (50) is provided in the vicinity of an exhaust outlet (170) of a fuel cell box (39) in a space between a sub-frame (22) and the fuel cell box (39). A ventilating inlet (130) is formed on a front wall (120) of the fuel cell box (39). A fan (180) can send outside air into the fuel cell box (39). A ventilation flow of the outside air which is sent into the fuel cell box (39) passes through and ventilates the fuel cell box (39) so as to cool a fuel cell stack (38). Exhaust air is exhausted rearward from the exhaust outlet (170) of an exhaust duct (160). The release pipe (51) and the release outlet (52) are heated by the exhaust air. Therefore, heating the release pipe (51) and the release outlet (52) can prevent the release outlet (52) from being blocked by snow or ice.

Abstract: An ecologically friendly sub frame system that is mounted onto a pre-purchased car, van, truck, emergency vehicle or heavy equipment, said system comprising a modified rectangular hollow metal frame, an outside access frame to access all parts of the vehicle, large tires, at least two independently moving axles, and coupling mechanisms to the axles that can be attached to a vehicle to be used in areas of ecological fragility, such as the tundra, desert, or beaches. The sub frame and the large tires re-distribute the weight of the vehicle across a large surface area, which minimizes the impact of the vehicle when it travels over terrain that can easily be destroyed.

Abstract: An all terrain vehicle includes a caliper bracket that moves with the movement of a rear axle by the rotation of an eccentric hub. The eccentric hub rotatably supports the rear axle in a position eccentric to the radial center of an axle supporting section. The caliper bracket includes a range specifying section or, specifically, a first engaging portion, which engages with the rear arm, for specifying the rotating range of the eccentric hub according to the position of engagement with the rear arm. The rear arm includes a second engaging portion that engages with the first engaging portion.

Abstract: A vehicle having a frame with at least one frame member, the frame member being adapted to support at least a portion of a weight of the vehicle and at least a portion of the frame member being tubular and radially expandable. The frame also has a manifold connected to an end of the frame member. A translation assembly is connected to the manifold.

Abstract: A frame assembly is described including a tunnel, an engine cradle disposed forward of the tunnel and connected thereto, and a sub-frame disposed forward of the engine cradle and connected thereto. A forward support assembly extends upwardly from the subframe. An upper column extends upwardly from the engine cradle to connect with the forward support assembly. A rear brace assembly extends upwardly from the tunnel to connect with the forward support assembly and the upper column. In one embodiment, the frame assembly further includes an engine disposed in the engine cradle. An endless track is operatively connected to the engine and disposed beneath the tunnel for propulsion. A pair of skis is operatively connected to a steering device for steering. In another embodiment, the frame assembly further includes an engine disposed in the engine cradle.

Abstract: The invention concerns a structure for a motor vehicle front end assembly, comprising a mini-cradle (1) whereon is mounted a suspension arm (3) for each wheel of said front end assembly, said suspension arm (3) being of the type having the shape of a boomerang whereof one of the ends, called supporting end (E) of a rotating part is designed to be coupled to a wheel, the other end, called front articulation (A), and the median part of the arm, called rear articulation (B), being designed to be coupled to said mini-cradle (1), said mini-cradle (1) having a body on either side of which extend towards the vehicle front two side cant rails (15) designed each to be coupled by screwing to a side member (5) of said vehicle.

Abstract: A recreational motor vehicle capable of accommodating a driver of varying sizes. Embodiments can also be modified for use on circular or in-line tracks or multiple racing formats. The external appearance of the vehicle may be readily modified through the switching of a exterior body which is supported on a rigid frame that completely encloses and protects the driver. Further safety features may be provided such as; a firewall between the engine and seat, fire suppression system, and escape hatch.

Abstract: A plug-in hydraulic body to frame mounting assembly is mounted to a conventional elastomeric body mount device to increase the control of vibration from the operation of the automotive frame to the automotive component supported thereon. The connecting member of the hydraulic mounting assembly threads onto the end of the fastener passing through the conventional elastomeric body mount device and anchors the outer can to a bridging can connected to the underside of the frame offrigger bracket to provide a true plug-n-go vibration control enhancement that can be added to any desired body mount location. The deflection of the fastener during operation of the elastomeric body mount device drives the operation of the hydraulic mounting assembly to dampen the deflection of the fastener in the elastomeric body mount corresponding to the transfer of operational loads between the body component and the offrigger bracket to which the body component is mounted.

Abstract: A front frame structure of a truck with upper longitudinal members and with lower longitudinal member elements which are connected to one another via vertical frame struts is provided. The lower longitudinal member elements are designed at least in some regions as collision-force-absorbing deformation bodies and are completely integrated into the frame structure.

Abstract: A mine service vehicle has a forward module, a rear module, and a cab module of unitized construction that can be secured together to assemble the vehicle. The forward and rear modules preferably have frame sections with terminating plates that can be affixed together with bolts, while the cab preferably mounts to the forward and rear modules by resilient couplings. The bolts preferably pass through tension sleeves into threaded holes in bolt receiver plates attached to one of the terminating plates. A frame extender can be affixed between the terminating plates to lengthen the vehicle. The vehicle preferably has a rear axle mounted to axle support bars that are each resiliently, floatably mounted to a pair of axle support brackets by a pivot bolt, with resilient bearings interposed between the axle support bar and the pivot bolt as well as between the pivot bolt and the axle support brackets.

Abstract: A frame structure provided for a body frame that can be used in common to vehicles with different types of rear suspensions. The frame structure includes a sub-frame assembly for an independent suspension type rear suspension that can be mounted to a body frame by using pivot brackets for supporting a swing arm provided in the body frame, and also using an upper mount for supporting a rear cushion provided in the body frame.

Abstract: A motorcycle shock system has a shock body formed at least partially of aluminum and an air compressor that provides pressurized air to the shock body when necessary. A piston held within the shock body defines a rear air chamber and a forward air chamber on the opposite side of the piston. Four electrically controlled air valves include a first air valve that when actuated opens a passage to allow air to flow into the forward chamber, a second air valve that when actuated opens a passage to allow air to flow out of the forward chamber to the atmosphere, a third air valve that when actuated opens a passage to allow air to flow out of the rear air chamber, and a fourth air valve that when actuated opens a passage to allow air to flow into the rear air chamber.

Abstract: A motorcycle soft tail shock system has a shock body formed at least partially of aluminum and an air compressor that provides pressurized air to the shock body when necessary. A piston held within the shock body defines a rear air chamber and a forward air chamber on the opposite side of the piston. Four electrically controlled air valves include a first air valve that when actuated opens a passage to allow air to flow into the forward chamber, a second air valve that when actuated opens a passage to allow air to flow out of the forward chamber to the atmosphere, a third air valve that when actuated opens a passage to allow air to flow out of the rear air chamber, and a fourth air valve that when actuated opens a passage to allow air to flow into the rear air chamber.

Abstract: A material handling apparatus having a support portion is disclosed. The support portion includes a beam, a wheel disposed on one side of the beam, and a wheel bracket disposed on an opposing side of the beam. The wheel bracket has two legs and a yoke, and is disposed with the legs against the beam to define a gap between the beam and the yoke. The beam and wheel bracket each include a defined pattern of three sets of identically arranged holes, a first set arranged on a square pattern, a second set arranged on rectangular non-square pattern, and a third set arranged on a rectangular pattern similar to that of the second set but oriented ninety degrees to the second set. The wheel bracket is disposed having its defined pattern of holes aligned with the defined pattern of holes in the beam. The wheel, beam and wheel bracket are attached by fasteners passing through one set of holes and traversing the gap.

Abstract: A girder is described for a vehicle chassis made of at least two sheet metal profiles (4, 5) composed along their longitudinal edges into a circumferentially enclosed hollow profile (1), which hollow profile comprises at least two longitudinal sections (2, 3) which are both materially joined by way of a joining seam (10).

Abstract: A working machine includes a pipeline disposed along a side deck in a front-back direction and connecting a hydraulic pump and a control valve. The hydraulic pump is mounted at a back portion of an upper frame of an upper rotating body and the control valve is mounted at a front portion of the upper frame. In the working machine, a reinforcing member having a space for accommodating the pipeline is mounted in the front-back direction of the side deck to an outermost side of the side deck in a widthwise direction thereof. The pipeline is passed through the reinforcing member.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a chassis frame including at least one substantially straight rail extending in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle, and a cab having a floor at least partially disposed vertically below the at least one rail.

Abstract: A vehicle chassis includes a front chassis with a rear inverted-U-shaped member, a rear chassis, and a locking mechanism on the rear chassis for locking the inverted-U-shaped member to secure the front and the rear chassises together; the locking mechanism includes a housing with a gap, a pivotal locking piece next to one side of the gap, and a pivotal detaining piece next to other side of the gap; the locking piece will be automatically pivoted to a locking position to detain the inverted-U-shaped member when the inverted-U-shaped member is passed into the gap; the locking and the detaining pieces are subjected to first and second elastic return forces respectively; the first elastic return force biases the locking piece towards a non-locking position; the second elastic force biases the detaining piece such that the detaining piece will engage the locking piece when the inverted-U-shaped member is passed into the gap.

Abstract: A structure for joining a cross member (2) to a side member (1) of a chassis frame, wherein a flange (4) is formed integrally at an end of the cross member via a flare (3), an extension member (5) inserted into the end of the cross member (2) to project from the afore-mentioned flange (4) is welded to the flare (3), the extension member (5) is passed through an inside hole (9i) formed in an inside part (8i) in the width direction of the vehicle in the closed-section part of the side member (1) and welded to an outside hole (9o) formed in an outside part (8o) in the width direction of the vehicle, and the outer periphery of the flange (4) is welded to the inside part (8i) in the width direction of the vehicle. The closed-section part (8) is formed in a rectangular shape, and the top and bottom parts of the periphery of the flange (4) are located near top and bottom bends (12) of the closed-section part (8).

Abstract: The present apparatus and method relates to improvements in stiffening elements within a vehicle body structure at a sub-frame attachment point. In a first embodiment of the improved apparatus and method, a long mounting pin is used in combination with a generally planar shear bulkhead. The pin fits partially into a channel within the shear bulkhead. The pin is welded, near its bottom, to a sub-frame mounting bracket. The long mounting pin extends to the upper part of the vehicle frame and is also welded thereto. The shear bulkhead abuts a generally middle section of the mounting pin and two additional welds are placed securing the mounting pin to the shear bulkhead.

Abstract: An all-terrain recreational vehicle comprises a frame, a seat assembly, a plurality of tire assemblies, a steering assembly, a power delivery assembly, a water reservoir, a nozzle and an actuation mechanism. The frame includes a padded roll cage and the seat assembly is attached to the frame. The plurality of tire assemblies is attached to the frame. The steering assembly is connected between the frame and at least two of the tire assemblies. The power delivery assembly is connected to at least one of the tire assemblies. The water reservoir is attached to the frame and the nozzle is in fluid communication with the water reservoir. The actuation mechanism is attached to the frame at a remote location from the nozzle. The actuation mechanism is operably connected between the nozzle and the water reservoir for enabling selective dispensing of water from the water reservoir through the nozzle.

Abstract: A load handler with a modular frame and the manufacture and assembly of the frame and loader and components that may be used therein. A frame is provided that has a low pivot point for a boom. The frame has left and right side rails, and front and rear cross rails, each having a closed cross-section construction. The side rails and cross rails are modular and the cross rails of a selected size are configured to fit a plurality of sizes of side rails, such that the same size cross rails may be used to construct a variety sizes and capabilities of load handling vehicles in a flow type manufacturing process. A structural beam is provided having plates interconnected along their lengths to form the beam having a box-shaped closed cross-section having a perimeter generally along the widths of the plates and forming a beam cavity within the perimeter.

Abstract: A motor vehicle main chassis includes left and right main frame rails having extending along opposite lateral sides of the chassis. An extended rear frame member having left and right rear frame rails is disposed below and attached to the main frame rails, the rear frame rails extending horizontally in a plane situated below and parallel to the main frame rails. Left and right intermediate spacer rails are attached, respectively, to a bottom surface of the left and right main frame rails and extend rearwardly of the main frame rails. The left and right rear frame rails may be attached, respectively, to a bottom surface of said left and right intermediate spacer rails and extend rearwardly therefrom.

Abstract: A tractor includes a motor, transmission, drive shaft and rear differential for driving the rear axles mounted on a main tubular frame of a variable configuration. Forwardly extendable telescoping tubular frame members are actuated by respective rams to selectively increase the wheel base between the front and rear wheels. The front and rear telescoping tubes supporting each of the wheels are selectively extendable to significantly increase the wheel width of the tractor; the axles for the rear wheels are commensurately extendable. A toolbar dependingly supported from the main frame in front of the cab permits the operator to view the operation of attached implements while driving. The toolbar may include a row guide causing the toolbar to move laterally as necessary to follow a row and the toolbar is connected to the steering mechanism to control the direction of travel of the tractor.

Abstract: In a front body structure of a vehicle according to the present invention, satisfactory impact absorption can be achieved both at the time of offset collision and at the time of full-lapped collision. When a load applied to an offset-collided front side member from a front side of the vehicle is equal to or more than a predetermined value, the collided front side member is deformed. Thus, a front suspension member rotates. As a result, a bolt passing through the front suspension member fits into a branch of a slit of a rear mounting bracket disposed on the collided front side member, and the state in which the collided front side member is fixed to the front suspension member is maintained.

Abstract: A vehicle frame includes first and second lower rails and first and second upper rails operatively interconnected. Cross members horizontally interconnect the lower rails and the upper rails, and stanchions vertically interconnect the upper rails and the lower rails. The frame provides improved stiffness and strength at a reduced mass compared to the prior art.

Abstract: A cross member, in particular a cockpit cross member, for a motor vehicle, is connectable at both ends to a vehicle body and supportable in a central area via a supporting element on a longitudinal transmission tunnel of the vehicle. The cross member has at least two cross member elements which are joined together at the end in a central area of the cross member via a connecting member. The connecting member allows compensation of tolerance in the transverse direction of the vehicle. The cross member is connected to the supporting element via the connecting member, the connection between the connecting member and the supporting element allowing compensation of tolerance in the z direction.

Abstract: A vehicle frame structure provides a large protected cavity. Lateral energy management zones absorb impact energy on the sides of the protected cavity, and forward and rearward energy management zones absorb impact energy forward and rearward of the protected cavity. In an exemplary embodiment, the frame is characterized by dual load paths along the protected cavity and by graduated front and rear energy management zones.

Abstract: A vehicle development process is characterized by enhanced market responsiveness by decoupling the development of the chassis from the development of vehicle bodies. The chassis and bodies are provided with a common, standardized interface system so that a single chassis design or a family of chassis designs may receive any of a variety of different body types thereon. Accordingly, the chassis are designed to enable the bodies to be designed and produced independently. The bodies are designed and manufactured all over the world to meet different consumer desires. Designers are able to redesign vehicle bodies without re-engineering the entire vehicle. The freedom to design, develop and distribute vehicle bodies more quickly with greater design freedom enables the manufacturer to be more responsive to local, regional and global market needs.

Abstract: In a vehicle for uneven ground operation front wheels can be steered with a handle via a steering shaft mounted rotatably on the body frame with an upper cross beam being placed in spanning relationship between left and right front upper pipes composing the body frame and said steering shaft is supported by the upper cross beam. The left and right pipes can be coupled firmly to each other with the upper cross beam for enhancing the rigidity of the body frame. In addition, the number of components can be reduced as compared to providing a distinct steering shaft support member so that a reduction in the weight of the vehicle is achieved. If the upper cross beam is bend molded, the rigidity of the upper cross beam can be enhanced so that the rigidity of the body frame is further enhanced, while a weight increase is suppressed.

Abstract: The vehicle frame rail in one form has front, middle and rear portions which are seamlessly joined together to form a unitary one-piece monolithic frame rail. The frame rail may be straight with an upper surface of an upper flange of the frame rail being planar. At the transition regions of this form of frame rail form, the lower flange converges toward the upper flange at a transition between the front and middle portion and diverges from the upper flange at a transition from the middle portion to the rear portion. The upper flange of the frame rail may converge toward the lower flange along a rearmost section of the frame rail.

Abstract: A vehicular body oscillating mechanism (31) is provided between a frame (3) of an automotive vehicular body (2) and a stabilizer (18) thereby to sway the vehicular body (2) arcuately in a rightward and/or leftward direction about a pivot point (A) between right and left rear wheels (6, 7) when the stabilizer (18) is set on the ground for a load handling operation. This means that, after the stabilizer (18) is set on the ground for a load handling operation, the vehicular body (2) can be swayed arcuately laterally in a rightward and/or leftward direction together with a load lifting mechanism (12). Therefore, in a load handling operation, the load lifting mechanism (12) can be adjusted in a lateral direction to dump lifted freight goods exactly on a specified unloading spot.

Abstract: A left fore leg (31) is formed to shape by a casting means, integrating an inner joint portion (31A), an outer joint portion (31B) and an intermediate tubular portion (31C) into an unitary tubular structure. In this case, a joining end (31A1) of the inner joint portion (31A) as well as an outer joining end (31B1) of the outer joint portion (31B) is in the form of an open end of a rectangular shape. Accordingly, it becomes possible to cut the production cost of truck frame (11) and to form a longer welding bead around the outer periphery of the respective inner and outer joining ends (31A1) and (31B1) to enhance the joint strength between the inner joint portion (31A) and a center frame (12) as well as the joint strength between the outer joint portion (31B) and a side frame (22).

Abstract: A force connection strut (1) of a chassis of a passenger car or utility vehicle is provided for the non-positive connection between a chassis and a wheel carrier, preferably an axle strut or a chassis control arm. An elongated basic body (G) and at least two end-side mount supports (5) are provided for introducing and leading out forces.

Abstract: A frame structure for a vehicle body frame includes a first and second hollow member, wherein a plate thickness of the second hollow member is greater than the plate thickness of the first hollow member. A heavy body is supported on a side of the first hollow member.

Abstract: A left drive shaft and a right drive shaft each include an inside constant velocity joint and an outside constant velocity joint with a ball spline mechanism provided between the inside constant velocity joint and the outside constant velocity joint for enabling the distance between the inside constant velocity joint and the outside constant velocity joint to be contracted and extended. The ball spline mechanism includes a spline shaft having an outer circumferential surface provided with a plurality of axial grooves extending in the axial direction, a tubular portion surrounding the periphery of the spline shaft and having an inner circumferential surface provided with a plurality of axial grooves extending in the axial direction and a plurality of balls capable of rolling while being fitted in the axial grooves and in the axial grooves.

Abstract: An off road vehicle comprises a front frame joined to a rear frame by a swivel rotates about a longitudinal axis. Springs are mounted to a horizontal planar structure and to the rear frame. The springs maintain the front frame to rear frame alignment but allows rotation between the front frame and the rear frame. A steering column extends upwardly and forwardly from a front axle having two wheels mounted laterally therefrom. The is connected to the two front wheels to turn in a desired direction. Front springs connect the axle to the steering column. A pair of shock absorbers connect the axle proximate to the wheels and the steering column. The pair of front springs and the pair of shock absorbers, in combination, maintain the front frame alignment to the axle but allow rotation between the front frame and the axle.

Abstract: A frame structure and a method of manufacturing a body frame that is divided into small assemblies to facilitate the carriage and storage of articles and individuals and the manufacturing efficiency. A body frame is divided into three, namely, a front assembly having a closed loop structure, an engine support system assembly having a closed loop structure and a rear suspension support system assembly having a closed loop structure. The front assembly and the rear suspension support system assembly are connected to the engine support system assembly to form the body frame. The small assemblies have a closed loop structure whereby the rigidity is enhanced, and the shape is also stabilized. Therefore, the accuracy management can be performed.

Abstract: A vehicle chassis includes a frame defining a cavity, and a tank configured to store compressed hydrogen gas. The tank is at least partially located within the cavity, and is longitudinally oriented with respect to the frame to maximize the fuel-storage capability of the vehicle chassis. In an exemplary embodiment, a floorpan includes a concavity to accommodate at least a portion of the tank, with a corresponding protuberance in the passenger compartment floor surface of the vehicle chassis.

Abstract: A subframe support apparatus adapted to engage and support a subframe of a vehicle is provided wherein the subframe support apparatus engages and supports the subframe of the vehicle when the vehicle is either raised on a lift and/or on the ground and when a mechanic is working on components of the vehicle supported by the subframe of the vehicle. The subframe support apparatus includes an elongated housing or elongated support member having first and second subframe engaging assemblies adjustably connected thereto for engaging oppositely disposed portions of the subframe of the vehicle.

Abstract: A kit that permits the conversion of a standard two-seat cart into a four-seat cart, with all passengers facing forward. The kit comprises an extension body member having two seats mounted thereon. An extension frame structure includes a pair of horizontally-extending, parallel beams, which frame structure and beams are mounted to the bottom surface of the extension body member. The beams are spaced apart a predetermined distance so that they can respectively abut the frame of a standard two-seat cart. The body portion is designed with wheel wells to accommodate the rear wheels of the cart.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device for reinforcing the rear end of a vehicle having a ladder-type frame. The device includes a first bar that is adapted to be secured between the left side rail and right suspension attachment of the vehicle frame and a second bar adapted to be secured between the right side rail and left suspension attachment such that the first and second bars are mounted to the frame in a crosswise fashion with respect to each other between the side rails. The device is mounted adjacent the rear of the vehicle frame whereby torsional stiffness and rigidity can be added to the rear of the frame and lateral deflection of the suspension attachments that occurs during aggressive driving is sharply minimized.

Abstract: A frame for a heavy-duty vehicle includes a pair of spaced-apart and longitudinally-extending main members. At least two cross members extend between and are attached to the main members. Each one of at least a pair of hangers is attached to and depends from a respective one of the main members for suspending an axle/suspension system from the frame. A force distribution assembly is attached to the main members and the hangers and includes a component that deforms or shears in an extreme event. The force distribution assembly extends perpendicularly between the main members and interrupts the transmission of forces encountered by the axle/suspension system that move through each one of the hangers to its respective main member, and redirects at least a portion of such forces across said force distribution assembly and into the other one of the main members.