| 摘要 |
A brake arrangement for a snowmobile vehicle of the type having a so-called mono-body suspension system. In this arrangement, the snowmobile's engine shaft is coupled through a conventional variable speed drive system to a jack shaft which is journaled for rotation with respect to the frame of the vehicle. Pivotally coupled on one end of the jack shaft is a chain case which encloses a sprocket wheel. A support arm on the other end of the jack shaft extends parallel to the chain case. Extending between the sprocket wheel on the jack shaft and a further sprocket wheel associated with the snowmobile's track drive shaft is an endless chain. That track drive shaft is journaled for rotation between the spaced-apart rails defining an orbital path of motion for the ground-engaging track of the vehicle. The rail system defining the orbital path is joined to the frame proximate the rear of the snowmobile vehicle by means of shock absorbers. In accordance with the present invention, then, a brake assembly is disposed between the rotating jack shaft and the pivotally mounted chain case or the support arm whereby, upon application of a braking force, the jack shaft is slowed and stopped while simultaneously the front portion of the rear suspension system lifts relative to the ground, thereby transferring weight to the front steerable skis and increasing the maneuverability of the vehicle.
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