Transaxle fluid expansion and contraction accommodation apparatus

摘要

An apparatus for accommodating fluid expansion and contraction within an axle housing or axle support structure of a hydrostatic transaxle is provided. A partitioning element separates the hydraulic fluid from an air chamber created at least partially by the partitioning element and the partitioning element extends around a portion of the axle and at least a portion of the partitioning element is movable along the longitudinal axis of the axle to expand the volume of the sump.

主权项

1. A hydraulic drive apparatus, comprising:
a housing forming a sump containing hydraulic fluid; an axle support structure connected to the housing and at least partially supporting an axle having a longitudinal axis of rotation; a fluid volume accommodation apparatus mounted and contained within the axle support structure, the fluid volume accommodation apparatus comprising a partitioning element separating the hydraulic fluid from an air chamber created at least partially by the partitioning element; and wherein the partitioning element extends completely around a portion of the axle and at least a portion of the partitioning element is movable along the longitudinal axis of the axle to expand the volume of the sump.