AGRICULTURAL WAGON HAVING ALL-WHEEL STEERING

摘要

A wagon for agricultural use having an all-wheel steering mechanism. Th e wheels are hingedly attached to their respective axles. Steering alignment o f the front wheels is provided by the wagon tongue, which is pivotally connected t o the wagon frame and at least one of the front wheels. The front wheels are connected to each other by a steering linkage, consisting of two equal lengt h members pinned to each other at a connection point. A front shaft crank is pivotally attached at the same connection point and rigidly attached to a rotatable shaft mounted with bearings to the underside of the wagon frame. Changes to the steering alignment of the front wheels causes lateral movement of the connection point, leading to rotation of the shaft and a corresponding direc t change in alignment of the rear wheels, which are equipped with a similar system of linkages and cranks. This causes the front and rear wheels to follow the same path. Mounting the shaft above the axles increases ground clearance and mitigates the potential for damage to the steering mechanism. One of the axl es may be pivotally attached to the wagon frame using a horizontal pin at substantially its midpoint, allowing angular pivoting of the axle in respons e to uneven terrain. The degree of pivoting is limited by stops integrally formed into the frame. The pivoting axle improves stability of the wagon, especially whi le turning and when transporting a top-heavy load.