Importance

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Abstract

A coupling apparatus for releasably securing a tool to the linkage of a tractor such as a backhoe. The coupling apparatus includes a second coupling element which is fixed to the lower end of the linkage and a first coupling element which is fixed to the upper end of the tool. One of the coupling elements has a generally upwardly facing first engaging surface for engaging a downwardly facing first engaging surface of the other coupling element which provides the main coupling connection between the first and second coupling elements. Each of the first and second coupling elements has a second engaging surface which is spaced from the first engaging surface. When the first and second coupling elements are brought together in a coupling mode, the second engaging surfaces engage and provide a fulcrum about which the linkage pivots relative to the tool. The first coupling element has a locking element at the rear end of the first coupling element for engaging a complimentary locking element at the rear end of the second coupling element for receiving a connector to lock the first and second locking elements together when the coupling apparatus is in the coupling mode. The connector is effective, when connecting the first and second coupling elements together, to force the rear end of the linkage downwardly relative to the tool with a primary downward preloading force along a primary line of action through the connector for pivoting the linkage about the fulcrum and for forcing the upwardly facing first engaging surface of one of the coupling elements against the downwardly facing first engaging surface of the other coupling element. The locking elements allow an upward or downward force to transmit to the rear to the tool.

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First Claim