Title: Drive axle support frame for a walk-behind, self-propelled lawn mower

Abstract: The rear wheels of a walk-behind, self-propelled lawn mower are fixed to the opposite ends of a drive axle that is rotatably mounted in an axle support frame. The axle support frame is vertically pivotally mounted at the rear of a main frame of the mower and an adjustment mechanism is provided for holding the support frame in selected positions according to the cutting height desired. A cross-shaft is coupled to be driven from the mower engine and is mounted in the support frame, so as to extend along the axis about which the latter is pivotable, and is connected to the drive axle by gearing. A normally disengaged clutch is carried by the cross-shaft for selective engagement to complete a drive connection to the gearing. The drive axle support frame defines a protective guard or shield which extends over the clutch and gearing.

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Inventors: Dobberpuhl, Dale R. (Horicon, WI, US)

Application Number: 969459
Filing Date: 1978-12-14
Publication_date: 1980-07-15
Assignee: Deere & Company (Moline, IL)
Primary Class(es): 180/19.1 56/17.2, 280/43
Other Classes:
US Patent Ref:

2688224	Sep, 1954	Hainke	180/19.
2941610	Jun, 1960	Clemson	180/19.
2996134	Aug, 1961	Muerle et al.	180/19.
3388759	Jun, 1968	Plamper et al.	180/19.
3411275	Nov, 1968	Mattson et al.	180/19.

Other Refs:
Primary Examiner: Love, John J.
Assistant Examiner: McGiehan, Donn
Attorney: