Patent ID: 6402170
Filing Date: 2002-06-11
Classification: B62D

Abstract:
In a utility vehicle having a frame supported by a steering axle having a pair of steered wheels pivotally mounted thereon, and a drive axle having a pair of drive wheels mounted thereon; an operator compartment including a control apparatus operably connected to a steering mechanism controlling the pivotal movement of the steered wheels relative to the steering axle, the improvement comprising:the steering mechanism includes: a steering apparatus operably supported on the steering axle for movement in response to a movement of the control device; a first wheel control linkage pivotally connected to a mounting member for movement relative to said steering axle at a first pivot point, said first wheel control linkage being connected to said steering apparatus at a first connection point for pivotal movement of said first wheel control linkage in response to movements of said steering apparatus, said first wheel control linkage being connected to a first steered wheel by a first steering link for effecting pivotal movement of said first steered wheel, said first steering link extending rearwardly from said first wheel control linkage to the corresponding said steered wheel; a second wheel control linkage pivotally connected to said mounting member for movement relative to said steering axle at a second pivot point, said second wheel control linkage being connected to said first wheel control linkage for pivotal movement in concert therewith, said second wheel control linkage being connected to a second steered wheel by a second steering link for effecting pivotal movement of said second steered wheel, said second steering link extending rearwardly from said second wheel control linkage to the corresponding said steered wheel, said first connection point being spaced longitudinally of said first and second pivot points; and a tie rod interconnecting said first and second wheel control linkages to transfer pivotal motion from said first wheel control linkage to said second wheel control linkage.