Caterpillar Sarl

Sherrie R Baker

Jeffrey A Deneve

Owen S Loughrin

Charles T McMillan

Kevin J Romanchok

Matthew P Burr

In the operation of a construction machine, such as a wheel loader, it is essential to provide load distribution capabilities for improved strength characteristics in the components. Additionally, high visibility is required for an operator to view a work implement during normal operation or coupling. The present invention includes a hydraulic coupler utilizing a pair of separate coupler assemblies which are connected at opposing ends of an upper and lower coupler pin boss at a pair of pin joints including a pair of pins to define a spatial relationship therebetween. The pins each have a cylindrical central portion and rectangular shaped end portions which are fixed within rectangular shaped pin mounting openings in first and second end portions of the coupler assemblies. The separation of the coupler assemblies provides enhanced visibility for an operator. The utilization of the pins as structural members distributes loading in a substantially straight path from the work implement to the machine decreasing the load burden on components, such as the hydraulic coupler.

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Sanford, NC, United States of America

Sherrie R Baker