Patent ID: 7805864
Filing Date: 2010-10-05
Classification: E02F

Abstract:
1. A walk-behind steerable trencher, comprising: a frame comprising a forward end, a rearward end, and opposing sides; a control area proximate the rearward end of the frame; two independently powered and spaced-apart, ground-engaging tracks positioned on the opposing sides of the frame, the tracks for propelling the trencher along a ground surface; an internal combustion engine attached to the frame and operable to power the tracks; a trenching boom comprising: a hydraulic cylinder extending between the frame and the trenching boom, the cylinder selectively extendable and retractable such that it may pivot the trenching boom about the first transverse axis from an operating position, wherein a distal end of the boom is positioned below the ground surface, to a transport position, wherein the distal end of the boom is elevated forward of the forward end of the frame such that a lowermost portion of the chain is positioned above an inclined plane that extends upwardly, forwardly, and tangentially from a forwardmost portion of one or both tracks at an angle of 25 degrees or more from horizontal.