Exhaust directing valve mechanism for a vehicle

U.S. Patent Number: 5379801

Abstract: Exhaust directing mechanisms are useful for directing exhaust gas flow from an inlet to either a vehicle dump body or a muffler means. A valve mechanism for a vehicle includes a valve body having a valving element mounted within the valve body and being rotatable to a first position upon movement of a dump body to a raised position to direct exhaust from an engine to a muffler. With the dump body in the lowered position the valving element is in the second position to direct exhaust to the dump body. This arrangement of components provides for rotation of the valving element to direct exhaust flow to the dump body or to the muffler.

Inventors: Reinhart; James W. (Decatur, IL), Walker; Richard D. (Decatur, IL)

Assignee: Caterpillar Inc. (Peoria, IL)

Application Number: 08/239,168

Issued: 1995-01-10

Expired: 2007-01-10

Classes: 137/876 ; 137/625.47; 137/878; 298/1H

Field of search: 137/876,878,625.47 298/1H

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