SNOW-HANDLING IMPLEMENT WITH BELT-DRIVEN IMPELLER AND COACTING LABYRINTHIAN BAFFLE

摘要

To exemplify an implement to which the invention has particular application, we are showing herein a self-propelled snow thrower in which a propulsion shaft and thrower are driven by separate belts. The thrower impeller is encircled by an annular baffle structure with which it cooperates to exclude snow from the drive compartment without requiring a bearing or frictional contact seal for this purpose. Elimination of any solid wall between the impeller and drive compartments and elimination of any driving connection between the thrower impeller and the shaft which defines its axis of roation eliminates keys, set screws and the like and reduces fabrication costs.