Patent ID: 6588531
Filing Date: 2003-07-08
Classification: F16H

Abstract:
In a tractor having a chassis supported by a front axle assembly and a rear axle assembly, an engine for providing operative power for said tractor, a splitter gearbox mounted to said rear axle housing such that the two are generally sealed one from the other from fluid flow, said splitter gearbox being operatively connected to said engine to receive rotational power therefrom and being operatively connected to said front and rear axle assemblies to deliver rotational power thereto for fore-and-aft movement of said tractor, said splitter gearbox and said rear axle assembly each having a normal level of lubricating oil therein, the improvement comprising:a balancing hole extending between said splitter gearbox and said rear axle assembly to balance the oil levels within the two; and a vent tube assembly including a first tube extending from said balancing hole into said rear axle assembly and terminating with a one-way check valve permitting fluid flow from said splitter gearbox one way into said rear axle assembly, a second tube is connected to and in fluid flow communication with said first tube between said balancing hole and said check valve and extending upwardly and terminating at a location within said rear axle assembly above said normal oil level therein.