Patent ID: 6249994
Filing Date: 2001-06-26
Classification: B62D

Abstract:
A method of operating a work machine having (i) a hydraulic drive system for driving a drive track chain, (ii) a track tensioning assembly for adjusting tension on said drive track chain, (iii) a hydraulic work implement for performing a work function, and (iv) a fluid supply circuit for providing pressurized hydraulic fluid to both said hydraulic drive system and said hydraulic work implement, comprising the steps of:advancing said pressurized hydraulic fluid from said fluid supply circuit to said work implement when said work machine is being operated in a work mode of operation;diverting said pressurized hydraulic fluid from said work implement to said drive system when said work machine is being operated in a travel mode of operation;detecting a fluid pressure increase within said drive system in response to diversion of said pressurized hydraulic fluid from said work implement to said drive system; andoperating said track tensioning assembly so as to decrease tension on said track chain in response to detection of said fluid pressure increase.