Abstract: The invention concerns a system wherein the tool-bearing frame (1) and the tool (2) are each equipped with a multiple fluidic connection box, for example hydraulic provided with complementary male-female connecting members: each of said boxes is provided with a mobile and retractable protective cover, which normally covers the connecting members contained in said box. Said covers are arranged such that, in a first phase, the proper positioning of the tool-bearing-frame opposite the tool automatically causes the covers to retract, directly matching the fluidic connection members of the two boxes, so as to enable subsequently, in the second and third phases, the mechanical followed by the fluidic connection of the tool-bearing frame and the tool. The system protects the connecting members from the outside environment, while enabling easy and secure connection of the tool with the tool-bearing frame, without any risk of deterioration of the fluidic connectors.

Abstract: The invention provides a pin assembly and Implements connecting apparatus which can replace a working device such as a bucket or the like easily and for a short time. A first member (20) having a pair of brackets (18, 19) is connected to a second member (22) having a boss portion (21). First member (20) and second member (21) are connected so as to swing freely and mutually by inserting a pin assembly (17) having an outer tubular body (15) and a connection pin (16) rotatably connected thereto into one bracket (18), boss portion (21) and another bracket (19). In a connected state, outer tubular body (15) and boss portion (21) are fixed. Pin assembly (17) can be pulled out by applying a pressing force to an opposite side in an inserting direction of pin assembly (17).

Abstract: An attachment frame is connected with a loader arm of a work machine for connecting an implement thereto. A latch member is operatively associated with the attachment frame and movable between a disengaged position and an engaged position. A link has a first end portion connected to the latch member and a second end portion. A pivot member has a first end portion pivotally connected on the attachment frame, a second end portion pivotally connected on the second end portion of the link, and a central portion. A cylinder has a head end portion connected to the attachment frame and a rod end portion connected to the central portion of the pivot member. The cylinder is connected with a supply of hydraulic fluid so that upon pressurization thereof the cylinder is actuated for moving the latch member between the disengaged and engaged positions to respectively detach and attach the implement to the work machine.

Abstract: A lift arm assembly has a pair of lift arms that are pivotally mounted onto the frame of a loader that has a forwardly pivoting cab. The forward ends of the lift arms each have a front frame assembly that is secured to the respective lift arm. The front frame assemblies includes separate box section frames with depending leg portions that have pivots at lower ends thereof for supporting attachments for the loader. The upper ends of the box section frames have sockets that receive the lift arms. The depending portions are offset inwardly from the lift arms, and tilt cylinders for controlling the pivoting of attachments are mounted on the depending portions to align with connections for loader attachments while providing clearance above the depending portions for forward pivoting of the cab. The depending portions are secured together with a torsion resisting cross member adjacent the lower ends to provide rigidity to the lift arm assembly.

Abstract: A method of verifying proper coupling of an implement assembly to a lift arm assembly by an operator who is located in a cab of a work machine is disclosed. The work machine includes the implement assembly and the lift arm assembly. The implement assembly includes a hinge plate. The hinge plate has a first coupling aperture extending therethrough. The lift arm assembly has a lift arm and a cylinder. The cylinder is secured to the lift arm. The method includes the step of actuating the cylinder so as to move a pin from a first pin position to a second pin position. The pin is spaced apart from the first coupling aperture when the pin is located in the first pin position. The pin extends through the first coupling aperture when the pin is located in the second pin position.

Abstract: A mounting system for mounting tools to a base includes a movable base, a tool mounting frame for selective attachment to the base, and a locking assembly movable between a locked position where the tool mounting frame is securely attached to the base and an unlocked position where the tool mounting frame is movable relative to the base. The tool mounting frame includes at least one tool mount for supporting a first tool to perform a tooling operation after the locking assembly is moved to the locked position. The locking assembly includes a first mount supported by the base and a second mount supported by the tool mounting. The locking assembly is automatically interlocks the first and second mounts. A first sensor component is mounted to the base and a second sensor component is mounted to the tool mounting frame. A controller controls mounting speed based on the proximity of the sensor components. Additionally, a code corresponding to the type of tool mounting frame may be used.

Abstract: In an assembly mountable on a machine, including an implement provided with a pair of mounting brackets each having a pair of opposed pin receiving recesses, a dipper stick operatively connected to the machine for selected movement and having a first connecting pin rotatably mounted in an end thereof and receivable in one of the implement recesses, a fluid actuated cylinder assembly having a cylinder member pivotally connectable to the dipper stick and a rod member provided with an operatively connected second connecting pin rotatable relative thereto and receivable in the other of the implement recesses, and a pair of spacer links each disposed on a side of the dipper stick and spaced therefrom, operable to selectively maintain the connecting pins in retracted, inoperative positions permitting them to be maneuvered and inserted into or removed from the implement recesses, and in extended, inoperative positions within the implement recesses, detachably coupling the implement to the dipper stick, an adapter as

Abstract: An improved coupling assembly and method of use are disclosed herein to include a tool carrier attached to a utility loader or other work vehicle and supporting a pin guide. A pin is supported upon the carrier by the pin guide and interacts with one or more cam surfaces supported by the carrier. During axial rotation of the pin, the cam surface transfers a force to the pin to assist in the extraction and/or retraction of the pin into the implement. In one embodiment, the pin has a user graspable handle which may be rotated and axially moved by an operator. A visual indication that the pin is not fully engaged with the implement is also provided. Additionally, a locking mechanism is provided which prevents a pin from disengagement with the implement.

Abstract: A work machine is operably coupled to an interchangeable hydraulically-driven implement via at least one hydraulic line. When changing the hydraulically-driven implement, high pressure trapped within the hydraulic line may cause difficulties in disengaging the attached hydraulically-driven implement from a body of the work machine. The present invention relieves the pressure in the hydraulic line by energizing at least one electronically controlled valve while an engine of the work machine is inactive. The valve is operably coupled to an electrical actuator and is moveable between, at least, a first position and a second position. When the valve is in the first position, the hydraulic line is fluidly connected to a low pressure line. A control system includes a pressure release controller that is operably coupled to energize the electrical actuator and move the valve to the first position when the engine is inactive.

Abstract: A bucket loader apparatus for scooping, filling, transporting and placing a plurality of bags used in constructing barriers. The bucket loader includes a universal mounting attachment for attachment to a loading vehicle whereby the loading vehicle manipulates the bucket loader between a range of dispositions. In a scooping disposition, the loading vehicle directs the bucket loader to scoop a flowable, granular material. In a loading disposition, the flowable granular material is directed through a plurality of integral funnels and into a plurality of bags, each funnel having a bag retained proximally to the funnel. After filling the bags, the bucket loader is transported to a point of use whereby the loading vehicle manipulates the loader bucket to an unloading disposition allowing placement of the filled bags. The bucket loader further includes a bag attachment assembly for selectively retaining empty bags and releasing filled bags.

Abstract: The invention pertains to a device for attaching an implement to a lifting unit, in particular, to a front-end loader, wherein the implement and the lifting unit can be connected to one another by a movable bar that can be displaced from a locking position into an unlocking position by an externally activated actuator. The actuator is coupled to the bar by a coupling device designed such that a driving connection between the actuator and the bar is only produced when the actuator is activated. This makes it possible to displace the bar manually, as well as in an actuator-operated fashion.

Abstract: The invention concerns an arrangement for the securing of an implement to a lifting arm, particularly to a front loader, where the implement and the lifting arm can be fastened to each other by a movable locking bar, which can be moved between a locking position and an unlocking position, and can be brought from the locking position into the unlocking position by a remotely actuated hydraulic cylinder. It is proposed that the locking bar can be arrested automatically in the unlocking position, with it then being possible for the hydraulic cylinder to be deactivated. The locking bar is located such that it can be brought into the locking position from its arrested position by moving the implement by another remotely actuated hydraulic cylinder such that the locking bar engages the lifting arm and is moved to a non-arrested position from where it is automatically biased back into its locking position.

Abstract: In the rapid tool coupling device for digger tools, a tool is provided with two pivots operating as means for hooking-up, the tool comprising: a body provided with mobile hooks which are actuated to achieve stable removable couplings with at least one of the two pivots. At least one plurality of first supports and at least one second support, are predisposed to couple with a corresponding plurality of pairs of the two pivots, which pairs comprise a first pivot and a second pivot, and which can be removably fixed to the body.

Abstract: A coupler includes a body having first and second recesses that are adapted for respectively receiving first and second associated pins of an associated bucket or other implement. A wedge lock member is movably secured to the body and is movable between a retracted position one or more extended positions. The wedge lock member at least partially obstructs the second recess when it is moved to an extended position so as to capture a second associated pin in the second recess. An actuator is operably coupled to the wedge lock member and is operable to move the wedge lock member between its retracted and extended positions. A supplemental lock arm member is movably secured to the coupler body and is movable between an unlocked position and one or more locked positions. When the supplemental lock arm member is in its locked position, it engages and prevents movement of the lock member from the one or more extended positions to the retracted position.

Abstract: A work vehicle including at least one implement lifting arm connected to an implement and a hydraulic implement circuit, the implement circuit having a pump and a fluid reservoir connected to conduits of the implement circuit. The implement circuit further includes at least one implement cylinder, the implement cylinder being connected to the conduits of the implement circuit so as to be powered by the pump; and a latch mechanism comprising a latch valve with integral sequence valve mechanism, wherein the latch valve is connected to receive fluid from the implement cylinder, and a latch cylinder is connected to receive fluid from the latch valve, wherein the latch mechanism operates to securely connect the implement at one end of the at least one lifting arm when the implement cylinder is in a first state and the latch valve is operated to direct fluid to the latch cylinder.

Abstract: A front end loader attachment with a deck of exaggerated length, low height, and narrow width which remains constant in proportion from the front to the back. The attachment has a backplate that has a tool engagement comprising a mechanical quick coupler that facilitates fast and convenient removal of the attachment that conforms to the articulating arms of the skid steer loader or other such front loading handling equipment. The attachment is designed to be used in inaccessible places due to limitations or safety reasons such as conveyor systems in mining operations.

Abstract: A quick connect/disconnect system for an arm of an excavator or other machine includes a boom comprising a distal end defining a first yoke structure including first and second yoke members, and each of the yoke members includes an open pin-receiving recess. An arm includes first and second pin-ends projecting outwardly therefrom. The first pin-end is seated in the recess of the first yoke member and said second pin-end is seated in the recess of the second yoke member. First and second arm keepers are located respectively adjacent the first and second recesses and selectively capture the first and second pin-ends. The system optionally includes a second yoke with first and second yoke members that respectively include first and second open pin-receiving recesses. An arm cylinder includes first and second cylinder pin-ends projecting outwardly therefrom. The first cylinder pin-end is seated in the first recess of the second yoke and the second pin-end is seated in the second recess of the second yoke.

Abstract: A rear-mounted implement mounting system includes semi-cylindrical seats open upwardly and mounted on a lower back portion of a utility vehicle chassis that receive bar members located on a facing lower part of the rear-mounted implement. The utility vehicle chassis further includes semi-cylindrical receivers open in a rearward direction and adjacent cylinder portions open laterally. The receivers guide cylindrical bosses, located on an upper portion of the rear-mounted implement, into alignment with the cylinder portions, when the rear-mounted implement is pivoted upwardly by extending the boom cylinder of the rear-mounted implement. Connecting pins can be slipped through the cylindrical bosses and cylinder portions to lock the rear-mounted implement to the utility vehicle chassis. An operator remaining in the vehicle cab or operator station can easily operate the mounting system.

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: An improved coupling assembly and method of use are disclosed herein to include a tool carrier attached to a utility loader or other work vehicle and supporting a pin guide. A pin is supported upon the carrier by the pin guide and interacts with one or more cam surfaces supported by the carrier. During axial rotation of the pin, the cam surface transfers a force to the pin to assist in the extraction and/or retraction of the pin into the implement. In one embodiment, the pin has a user graspable handle which may be rotated and axially moved by an operator. A visual indication that the pin is not fully engaged with the implement is also provided. Additionally, a locking mechanism is provided which prevents a pin from disengagement with the implement.

Abstract: An assembly for detachably coupling an implement to a machine having lift arms and a link cylinder generally consisting of a first component mounted on the implement and having a downwardly opening hook and a downwardly spaced spring biased latch element, and a second component including means for mounting the second component on the lift arms and tilt link of the machine, a connecting pin engageable with the hook on the first component allowing the first component to swing relative to the second component about an axis, a striker element engageable with the latch element in tripping relation when the connecting pin of the second component engages the hook of the first component and the first component is caused to swing toward the second component about the pivotal axis thereof, to position the striker between the latch element and a portion of the first component, and means for selectively depressing the latch element to permit the first component to swing away from the second component.

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 coupler includes a body having first and second recesses that are adapted for respectively receiving first and second associated pins of an associated bucket or other implement. A wedge lock member is movably secured to the body and is movable between a retracted position one or more extended positions. The wedge lock member at least partially obstructs the second recess when it is moved to an extended position so as to capture a second associated pin in the second recess. An actuator is operably coupled to the wedge lock member and is operable to move the wedge lock member between its retracted and extended positions. A supplemental lock arm member is movably secured to the coupler body and is movable between an unlocked position and one or more locked positions. When the supplemental lock arm member is in its locked position, it engages and prevents movement of the lock member from the one or more extended positions to the retracted position.

Abstract: A quick-coupler for operably connecting a bucket or other implement to the arm or dipper-stick of an excavator, backhoe and/or other machine includes a first and second laterally spaced-apart rib assemblies. A first upper bearing plate is connected to the first rib assembly and a second upper bearing plate connected to the second rib assembly. At least one of the first and second upper bearing plates and the lower bearing plate includes a tab projecting outwardly therefrom that is inserted into a corresponding tab-opening defined in one of the first and second rib assemblies. A lock member is slidably positioned in the slot, and an actuator is located in the space between the first and second rib assemblies. The actuator is operably coupled to the lock member for moving the lock member between first and second operative positions. A method of constructing a coupler is disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to an assembly for exchangeably fastening an add-on, for example an excavator shovel (2), to an excavator boom (3), whereby retaining bolts (4, 5) spaced apart (A) in parallel are disposed on the excavator shovel (2). Said retaining bolts (4, 5) can be gripped by grippers (6, 7) mounted on the excavator shovel (3) that can be hydraulically adjusted relative to each other. Said grippers (6, 7) have open insertion openings (8, 9) for the retaining bolts (4, 5) in directions facing away from each other. The longitudinal axis (10) of the hydraulic drive (11) for adjusting the grippers (6, 7), the center axis (12, 13) of the retaining bolts (4, 5) and the center axis (14, 15) of the insertion openings (8, 9) on the grippers (6, 7) are at least approximately arranged in one plane (16). One gripper (6) is retained in parallel to the axis of the drive (11) in a guide (17) and can be linearly displaced.

Abstract: Quick fastener system for fixing a tool at the end of a loading arm, wherein the system includes a first part configured to be coupled to the loading arm. The first part includes a cradle and a first aperture. A second part is configured to be coupled to the tool. The second part includes a hook-shaped extension and a shaft which is adapted to be engaged by the cradle. A locking plate is adapted to engage the hook-shaped extension after the hook-shaped extension passes through the first aperture. At least one spring is coupled to the locking plate.

Abstract: An articulating truss boom for use with a lifting machine is described. The articulating truss boom assembly includes an articulating truss boom frame, a stationary support member attachable to a lifting machine, and an internal pivot assembly having a vertical pivot axis interposed between and providing the connection between the stationary support member and the articulating truss boom frame. The articulating truss boom frame is capable of pivoting with respect to the stationary support member about the vertical pivot axis in a horizontal plane transverse to the vertical pivot axis. The articulating truss boom assembly includes a hydraulic assembly which includes a metering valve having a removable restrictor inserted therein. The removable restrictor has a constricted channel therethrough to limit the hydraulic fluid channeled to the hydraulic assembly.

Abstract: An arm assembly for an excavator includes an arm comprising a first hook including a first open mouth. The arm further includes a first pin capturing system that selectively obstructs the first open mouth. A link is movable relative to said arm and comprises a second hook including a second open mouth. The second open mouth is oriented toward the arm, and the link further comprises a second pin capturing system that selectively obstructs the second open mouth. The first and second pin assemblies of an attachment are selectively captured in the first and second hooks. The pin assemblies include a sleeve rotatably positioned on an attachment pin that extends between ribs of the attachment. The sleeve includes a bore that closely receives the attachment pin and the length of the sleeve is selected so that the sleeve fits closely between the attachment ribs, thereby allowing the arm assembly to pick-up various attachments with different pin diameters, ribs spacings and pin-to-pin distances.

Abstract: An assembly for detachably coupling an implement to a machine having lift arms and a link cylinder generally consisting of a first component mounted on the implement and having a downwardly opening hook and a downwardly spaced spring biased latch element, and a second component including means for mounting the second component on the lift arms and tilt link of the machine, a connecting pin engageable with the hook on the first component allowing the first component to swing relative to the second component about an axis, a striker element engageable with the latch element in tripping relation when the connecting pin of the second component engages the hook of the first component and the first component is caused to swing toward the second component about the pivotal axis thereof, to position the striker between the latch element and a portion of the first component, and means for selectively depressing the latch element to permit the first component to swing away from the second component.

Abstract: A bucket shoe system for transporting smaller loader buckets within the loader bucket of a backhoe that includes a frame for holding the smaller buckets that is securable to the loader bucket using D-rings and which is provided with a number of slots for receiving the forks of a fork lift.

Abstract: An assembly mountable on a machine consisting of an implement provided with opposed pin receiving recesses, a dipper stick connectable to the machine, a first connecting pin mounted in the dipper stick and receivable in one of the implement recesses, a support link pivotally connected to the dipper stick, an actuating link pivotally connected to the support link, a second connecting pin mounted in the actuating link and receivable in the other of the recesses, a base link rigidly connected to the second pin and detachably connectable to the first connecting pin and a fluid actuated assembly interconnecting the dipper stick and the support or actuating links whereby upon operation of the fluid actuated assembly, the pins will be caused to displace relative to each other to permit such pins to be inserted into and withdrawn from the implement recesses for coupling and uncoupling the implement relative to the dipper stick.

Abstract: An assembly mountable on a dipper stick operatively connected to a machine, having a fluid actuated assembly, and connectable to an implement having at least one pair of opposed, connecting pin receiving recesses generally consisting of at least one spacer link including a pair of segments pivotally connected together and angularly displaceable relative to each other between retracted, inoperable and extended, operable positions, one of the link segments having a pin portion connectable to the dipper stick for pivotal open about its axis and receivable in one of the implement recesses and the other of the link segments having a pin portion operatively connectable to the fluid actuating assembly for pivotal movement about its axis and receivable in the other of the implement recesses, and a latch mounted thereon and cooperable with the one link segment when the segments are disposed in their extended, operative positions for releasably securing the link segments in their extended, operative positions.

Abstract: A work vehicle including at least one implement lifting arm connected to an implement and a hydraulic implement circuit, the implement circuit having a pump and a fluid reservoir connected to conduits of the implement circuit. The implement circuit further includes at least one implement cylinder, the implement cylinder being connected to the conduits of the implement circuit so as to be powered by the pump; and a latch mechanism comprising a latch valve with integral sequence valve mechanism, wherein the latch valve is connected to receive fluid from the implement cylinder, and a latch cylinder is connected to receive fluid from the latch valve, wherein the latch mechanism operates to securely connect the implement at one end of the at least one lifting arm when the implement cylinder is in a first state and the latch valve is operated to direct fluid to the latch cylinder.

Abstract: The invention is an implement coupling for a loading machine including a connection for mounting the implement coupling at an extreme end of a loading arm and for connection with an actuating arm of a hydraulic cylinder. The implement coupling comprises a coupling mechanism which couples the implement coupling with a complementary coupling mechanism of an implement, and a locking mechanism with a transverse, displaceable locking beam comprising a locking mechanism which interacts with the complementary coupling of the implement, and which may be displaced by spindles or hydraulic cylinders. The coupling mechanism includes an upper fixed hook coupling parts, which grip around upper connecting pins on the implement, and by lower, displacing hook coupling parts, which fix lower connecting pins of the implement when in contact with a contact surface on the implement coupling, the displacing coupling parts being connected with the locking beam.

Abstract: Quick fastener system for fixing a tool at the end of a loading arm. The system includes a first part coupled to the loading arm. The first part includes a cradle and a first aperture. A second part is arranged on the tool. The second part includes an element having a hook-shaped extension and a shaft which is adapted to be engaged by the cradle. A locking member is adapted to engage the hook-shaped extension. The tool is movable by the loading arm when the cradle engages the shaft and when the locking member engages the hook-shaped extension.

Abstract: A coupler (11) for connecting a dipper arm (3) of an excavator to a bucket (1) without need for the operator of the excavator to leave the cab of the excavator, the coupler (11) having a device for connecting it to the end of the dipper arm (3), and a latching hook (17) for connecting it to a bucket (1), wherein the latching hook (17) has a special internal profile (56, 57, 61) so that when it is supporting the weight of a bucket (1), it will tend to move to a latching position, not to an unlatching position.

Abstract: An add on adapter for converting an attachment coupler on a skid steer vehicle from hand operated latching and unlatching to power operated latching and unlatching when connecting and disconnecting work implements or accessories to the attachment coupler of the vehicle. The adapter is a substantially rectangular box shaped housing having a front and a back wall defining a relatively thin interior compartment with the back wall having rearwardly extending members to attach the housing to a front wall of the attachment coupler of the vehicle. Inside the housing is a vertically mounted pair of latch pins which are moveable longitudinally by hydraulic actuators between a retracted or unlatched position and an extended to latched position. A forwardly extending lip at the top of the front wall engages a rearwardly extending flange on a work implement to be attached to the vehicle.

Abstract: A self-propelled vehicle transports materials and equipment loaded onboard the vehicle to a desired location in an underground mine. A low profile frame is propelled by endless tracks which support a solid deck divided into a materials handling platform and an operator's station. The deck is open at the rearward end of the vehicle frame to facilitate loading and unloading of equipment and materials. A boom assembly is mounted at the front end of the frame adjacent to the operator's compartment. A free end of the boom assembly is connected to a suitable materials handling device. The materials handling device ranges from a hook mechanism for engaging and pulling heavy loads onto the deck to a bulldozer-type blade for pushing heavy equipment and loose materials off of the deck. The boom assembly includes a parallel spaced arrangement of piston cylinder assemblies.

Abstract: In an assembly mountable on a machine, including an implement provided with a pair of mounting brackets each having a pair of opposed pin receiving recesses, a dipper stick operatively connected to the machine for selected movement and having a first connecting pin rotatably mounted in an end thereof and receivable in one of the implement recesses, a fluid actuated cylinder assembly having a cylinder member pivotally connectable to the dipper stick and a rod member provided with an operatively connected second connecting pin rotatable relative thereto and receivable in the other of the implement recesses, and a pair of spacer links each disposed on a side of the dipper stick and spaced therefrom, operable to selectively maintain the connecting pins in retracted, inoperative positions permitting them to be maneuvered and inserted into or removed from the implement recesses, and in extended, inoperative positions within the implement recesses, detachably coupling the implement to the dipper stick, an adapter as

Abstract: A free-floating hydraulic piston cylinder situated in side-to-side orientation in which the piston rod advances from the cylinder which it causes to move in the opposite direction. To the piston rod as well as to the opposite end of the cylinder is connected linkage which changes the direction of force and pushes a moveable frame with attached spears in a forward ready-for-work direction. This arrangement permits the attachment of a great number of the spears because the moving frame can be efficiently acted upon all the way along its length rather than just near its middle portion.

Abstract: In the rapid tool coupling device for digger tools, a tool is provided with two pivots operating as means for hooking-up, the tool comprising: a body provided with mobile hooks which are actuated to achieve stable removable couplings with at least one of the two pivots. At least one plurality of first supports and at least one second support, are predisposed to couple with a corresponding plurality of pairs of the two pivots, which pairs comprise a first pivot and a second pivot, and which can be removably fixed to the body.

Abstract: A swivel connection for quick attachment bracket equipped excavator booms. The swivel connection has a frame that mounts onto a quick attachment bracket on an excavator or backhoe boom, and the frame pivotally mounts a second attachment bracket about a swivel axis. The second attachment bracket is adapted to fit into a frame on an implement that also is connectable to the bracket on the boom. An implement attached to the second bracket this can be pivoted relative to the frame of the swivel connection. A linear hydraulic actuator is used for controlling the pivoting movement of the second bracket relative to the frame.

Abstract: A boom and boom cylinder quick coupler includes a body defining at least one bore about a transverse boom pivot axis, and the bore is adapted for selective alignment with a transverse bore defined in an associated boom. A first transversely extending open recess is defined in the body about a first transverse axis that is parallel to the transverse boom pivot axis. The first recess is adapted for selective receipt of a first pin affixed to an excavator. A second transversely extending open recess is defined in the body about a second transverse axis that is parallel to the first transverse axis. The second recess is adapted for selective receipt of a second pin affixed to the excavator. A boom cylinder quick coupler can also be provided.

Abstract: An implement support frame or holder is mounted to an end of a boom for swinging about a horizontal, transverse axis. A pair of transversely spaced, tapered locating pins are mounted to a horizontal, transverse member of the support frame. The pins are each provided with a front surface that is curved on a radius about the transverse pivot axis and a gradually tapering rear surface. The pins are symmetrical about a fore-and-aft extending vertical plane with the curved forward surface acting to aid in guiding the pins into circular receptacles provided in an upper rear horizontal member of the implement.

Abstract: An adjustable coupling connector apparatus for accommodating a range of mating excavator couplers. The connector apparatus includes two parallel bars upon which an excavator coupler clamps. One of the bars is fixed in position to risers extending from a connector base. Each end of the other bar is attached to a point off center of a circular plate so that as the plate is rotated, the bar moves laterally relative to the bar axis. The plates are rotatably positioned in holes in the risers, and captivating side plates are welded to the risers for covering a portion of each plate, securing the plates from movement parallel to its axis but allowing the plate to rotate. Holes in the circular plates and side plates are provided, and a bolt is placed through each of the side plates and circular plates for securing each circular plate in a fixed position.

Abstract: A motorized vehicle portion of a front deck mower and a tool attachment comprising a motorized vehicle portion of a front deck mower; a frame having a pair of spaced apart side frame portions; cooperating attachment for attaching the frame to existing structure associated with the motorized vehicle wherein a first portion of the cooperating attachment structure is associated with the motorized vehicle and the a second portion of the cooperating attachment structure is associated with the frame and the first and second portions of the cooperating attachment structure engage one another for attachment of the frame to the motorized vehicle; and a pressurized fluid actuated tool attachment operably supported by and removable from the frame. The preferred cylinder assembly is operably attached to the frame and the tool attachment and preferably further comprises a pair of spaced apart pressurized fluid cylinders.

Abstract: An attachment for use with a skid steer loader having a single tine and a double tine connected at a center pin. The tines are configured to be powered open or closed about a vertical axis created by the center pin. The tines can be actuated by hydraulic cylinders. A scraper blade is included on the grabber attachment to allow the attachment to clear dead fall and brush. Side shields are included on the attachment to protect the tractor.

Abstract: A bucket fastener for a hydraulic shovel is assembled between an arm of the hydraulic shovel and a dipper bucket. The bucket fastener has a body pivotally mounted with the arm and a vertical link. A fixed hook is formed at a front end of the body. A movable seat is provided in the body and has a movable hook formed thereon. By the fixed hook attaching a first axle, and the movable hook attaching a second axle, the dipper bucket is securely fastened on the fastener.

Abstract: A bucket for a prime mover such as a skid steer loader has a mounting plate on its rear wall that is used for coupling to an attachment bracket on the prime mover or loader. The mounting plate is a unitary plate has a unitarily formed upper channel extending transversely across the bucket at an upper end of the mounting plate, and a unitarily formed second channel extending transversely across the bucket at the mounting plate lower end. The upper channel has a pair of apertures that are of size to receive latch ends of an attachment bracket and have edges that provide for alignment of the mounting plate and the bucket to which it is attached relative to the attachment bracket. The lower channel has apertures to receive vertically moveable wedge lock member on the attachment plate to secure the mounting plate and bucket to the loader.

Abstract: A mounting plate that is attachable to an attachment plate of a skid steer loader supports a quick attachment bracket on a forward side thereof. The quick attachment bracket has one part forming a nose, and a saddle spaced from the nose. The quick attachment bracket will move into a receptacle portion of a mounting frame on a tool to be driven by the skid steer loader and will receive another portion of the frame in the saddle. The frame and the quick attachment bracket can be held together with a latch arrangement and then the tool manipulated with the skid steer loader lift arms and attachment plate tilt cylinder. The tool is powered from the skid steer loader in a desired manner.