vehicle

Abstract

A vehicle comprises: a frame; front wheels and rear wheels; a steering assembly which is both tiltable and telescopic; and a meter which is connected to the steering assembly so that the meter tilts with the steering assembly but is fixed on a telescopic axis.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the Chinese patent application filed on July 9, 2020, with the invention name “Vehicle”, the priority date on January 10, 2018, and the application number 201980007897.1. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to side-by-side vehicles and all-terrain vehicles. Background Art

[0003] Typically, all-terrain vehicles ("ATVs") and utility vehicles ("UVs") are used to carry one or two passengers and a small amount of cargo over a wide variety of terrains. Due to the increasing recreational interest in ATVs, specialized ATVs (such as those used for off-road racing, racing, and cargo transportation) have entered the market. Most ATVs include seats for up to two passengers to sit side by side or for a passenger to be located behind the ATV driver. Side-by-side ATVs, in which the driver and passenger sit side by side on laterally spaced seats, have become popular because they allow the passengers to share the driver's viewpoint. Summary of the invention

[0004] In one embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle includes: a frame; front wheels and rear wheels; a powertrain, which is drivingly connected to these front wheels and these rear wheels; a seating area, which includes side-by-side seats; a cab frame, which is positioned on the seating area; a rear body part, which has an upper surface and includes a multi-purpose bed-shaped portion recessed in the rear body part and below the upper surface, the multi-purpose bed-shaped portion forming a step portion relative to the rear body part, the maximum lateral width of the multi-purpose bed-shaped portion is greater than the diameter of at least one of the wheels, and the minimum width is less than the diameter of at least one of the wheels, whereby a spare wheel can be stored on the step portion of the multi-purpose bed-shaped portion.

[0005] In another embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle includes: a frame; front wheels and rear wheels; a powertrain, which is drivingly connected to these front wheels and these rear wheels; a seating area, which includes side-by-side seats; a cab frame, which is positioned on the seating area; a rear body portion, which has an upper surface and includes a multi-purpose bed-shaped portion recessed in the rear body portion and below the upper surface, wherein the multi-purpose bed-shaped portion is defined as a removable basin-shaped member that can be removed from the rear body portion.

[0006] In another embodiment, a vehicle includes: a frame; front wheels and rear wheels; a powertrain drivingly connected to these front wheels and these rear wheels; a seating area including side-by-side seats; and a rear body portion having an upper surface and including a multi-purpose bed-shaped portion recessed into the rear body portion and below the upper surface, the multi-purpose bed-shaped portion defining a rearwardly angled groove in its floor, wherein the multi-purpose bed-shaped portion has drain outlets that drain water away from any heat source of the vehicle.

[0007] In another embodiment, a vehicle includes: a frame; front wheels and rear wheels; a powertrain drivingly coupled to the front wheels and the rear wheels; a seating area including side-by-side seats; a radiator positioned in front of the seating area for cooling components of the powertrain; and a headlight positioned in front of the radiator, the headlight having a notch area on its rear side, the radiator being positioned within the notch area so that at least a portion of the headlight is positioned rearward of a forward-most position of the radiator.

[0008] In another embodiment, a vehicle includes: a vehicle frame; front wheels and rear wheels; a powertrain drivingly coupled to the front wheels and the rear wheels; a seating area including at least one seat; a seat frame allowing the seat to move longitudinally relative to the vehicle frame, the seat frame including longitudinally extending tubes coupled to the frame; and followers coupled to side edges of the tubes to guide the seat relative to the vehicle frame.

[0009] In yet another embodiment, a vehicle includes: a vehicle frame; front wheels and rear wheels; a powertrain drivingly coupled to the front wheels and the rear wheels; a seating area including at least one seat having a seat bottom and a seat back; a shoulder harness assembly including a seat belt retractor coupled to the frame in front of the seat, a seat belt extending below the seat bottom and behind the seat back, the seat belt extending over the top of the seat back and the front of the seat back.

[0010] In another embodiment, a vehicle includes: a frame; front wheels and rear wheels; a powertrain drivingly connected to these front wheels and these rear wheels; a seating area, the seating area including side-by-side seats; a cab frame positioned on the seating area, wherein the cab frame includes: a single left side frame tube connected to the frame at a position in front of the seating area and at a position behind the seating area, wherein an intermediate frame tube portion is on the seating area; a single right side frame tube connected to the frame at a position in front of the seating area and at a position behind the seating area, wherein the intermediate frame tube portion is on the seating area; a left triangular brace connecting the left side frame tube to the frame; and a right triangular brace connecting the right side frame tube to the frame.

[0011] In another embodiment, a vehicle includes: a frame, the frame including a main frame portion and a removable front frame portion; front wheels and rear wheels; a front suspension, the front suspension is connected to the removable front frame portion, and the front wheels are connected to the front suspension; the rear suspension is connected to the main frame portion, and the rear wheels are connected to the rear suspension; and a powertrain, the powertrain is drivingly connected to the front wheels and the rear wheels; wherein the removable front frame portion can be removed from the main frame portion.

[0012] In another embodiment, a vehicle includes: a frame, the frame including a main frame portion and a removable front frame portion; front wheels and rear wheels; a front suspension, the front suspension is connected to the removable front frame portion, and the front wheels are connected to the front suspension; the rear suspension is connected to the main frame portion, and the rear wheels are connected to the rear suspension; and a powertrain, the powertrain is drivingly connected to the front wheels and the rear wheels; wherein the removable front frame portion can be removed from the main frame portion.

[0013] In another embodiment, a seat assembly includes a seat frame having a seat bottom frame and a seat back frame and individual cushions coupled to the seat bottom frame and the seat back frame to define a cushioned seat.

[0014] In another embodiment, a seat assembly includes: a seat having a seat back and a seat bottom; a seat mount for connecting the seat, the seat mount being rotatably fixed about a rear transverse axis and being movable at its front end to change the inclination of the seat; and a retaining mechanism for retaining the seat mount in various inclined positions.

[0015] In another embodiment, a continuously variable transmission (CVT) includes: an inner cover having a plurality of bosses around its periphery; an outer cover having a plurality of bosses around its periphery, wherein the bosses on the outer cover are aligned with the bosses on the inner cover; and fasteners extending through the plurality of bosses on the inner cover and the plurality of bosses on the outer cover to secure the outer cover to the inner cover, the fasteners having retaining portions thereon that secure the fasteners within the bosses on the outer cover when the fasteners are removed from the bosses on the inner cover.

[0016] In another embodiment, a vehicle includes: a frame; front wheels and rear wheels; a steering assembly that is both tiltable and telescopic; the steering assembly includes: a frame portion; a steering column; a wiring housing that extends generally along the steering column; a disengagement member, wherein the disengagement member allows the frame to tilt up and down; a steering wheel that is connected to the steering column; and a spiral wiring that extends through the wiring housing and at least partially wraps around the steering column, with the ends of the spiral wiring terminating in the steering wheel, wherein the spiral wiring can expand and contract within the wiring housing for tilt and telescopic, and can expand around the steering column when the steering wheel is rotated.

[0017] Finally, in another embodiment, a vehicle includes: a frame; front wheels and rear wheels; a powertrain that is dynamically coupled to the wheels; an intake system for drawing ambient air into the powertrain, the intake system including at least one bezel for intake, and at least one duct coupled between the bezel and the powertrain, the bezel having an angled surface having a forward-facing portion for direct intake, wherein the angled surface includes a vent opening for intake.

[0018] In another embodiment, a vehicle includes: a frame; front and rear wheels; a steering assembly that is both tiltable and telescopic; and an instrument coupled to the steering assembly so that the instrument tilts with the steering assembly but is fixed on a telescopic axis. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1 is a left front perspective view of the vehicle of the present invention without the body panels;

[0020] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 a right front perspective view of a vehicle;

[0021] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 a right rear perspective view of a vehicle;

[0022] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 a left rear perspective view of a vehicle;

[0023] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A left side view of a vehicle;

[0024] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 a right side view of the vehicle;

[0025] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A top view of a vehicle;

[0026] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A bottom view of a vehicle;

[0027] Fig. 9 yes Figure 1 A front view of a vehicle;

[0028] Fig.10 yes Figure 1 a rear view of a vehicle;

[0029] Fig.11 yes Figure 1 a left front perspective view of a frame of a vehicle;

[0030] Fig.12 yes Fig.11 a left rear perspective view of a rear frame portion of the frame;

[0031] Fig.13 yes Fig.12 A partial exploded view of a rear frame portion;

[0032] Fig.14 is a left front perspective view of the removable front frame portion;

[0033] Fig.15 yes Fig.14 a partially exploded view of a removable front frame portion of the

[0034] Fig.16 yes Fig.15 a left rear perspective view of a removable front frame portion of the;

[0035] Fig.17 Shows Fig.15 A right rear perspective view of a right connector and a left connector;

[0036] Fig.18 Shows Fig.17 A right front perspective view of a connector;

[0037] Fig.19 Shows Fig.14 Another version of a removable front frame portion;

[0038] Fig. 20 is a left front perspective view of the removable front frame portion exploded from the main frame portion;

[0039] Fig.21 yes Fig.19 a left rear perspective view of a removable front frame portion of the;

[0040] Fig. 22 yes Fig. 20 a left rear perspective view of the coupling shown;

[0041] Fig.23 yes Fig. 22 A right front perspective view of a connector;

[0042] Fig.24 A lower left perspective view of a drive shaft support is shown;

[0043] Fig.25 Shows Fig.24 A partial exploded view of

[0044] Fig.26 Shows Fig.25 The bearings are disassembled from the supports;

[0045] Fig. 27 is a left front perspective view of a first embodiment of a cab frame;

[0046] Fig.28 yes Fig. 27 An exploded view of the cab view;

[0047] Fig.29 It passes through Fig. 27 A cross-sectional view taken along line 29-29;

[0048] Fig.30 is a second embodiment of the cab frame;

[0049] Fig.31 yes Fig.30 An exploded view of the cab frame;

[0050] Fig.32 It passes through Fig.30 A cross-sectional view taken along line 32-32 of ;

[0051] Fig.32A is a third embodiment of a cab frame;

[0052] Fig.32B yes Fig.32A An exploded view of the cab frame;

[0053] Fig.32C It passes through Fig.32A A cross-sectional view taken along line 32C-32C;

[0054] Fig.33 is a left rear perspective view of the multi-purpose bed portion of the vehicle;

[0055] Fig.34 is a left rear perspective view of the removable tub exploded from the rear body portion;

[0056] Fig.35 yes Fig.33 A left front perspective view of the multi-purpose bed-shaped portion;

[0057] Fig.36 is a left rear perspective view of a removable basin-shaped member forming a multi-purpose bed-shaped portion;

[0058] Fig.37 yes Fig.36 a top view of the removable basin portion shown;

[0059] Fig.38 is a left front perspective view of the side-by-side seats positioned in the frame;

[0060] Fig.39 is a left front perspective view of the seat and seat frame assembly;

[0061] Fig.40 is an enlarged left front perspective view of the driver's seat and longitudinal adjustment mechanism;

[0062] Fig.41 yes Fig.40 An underside perspective view of a seat;

[0063] Fig.42 The driver's seat is shown exploded from the seat adjustment mechanism;

[0064] Fig.43 The seat adjustment mechanism is shown in exploded view;

[0065] Fig.44 Shows Fig.43 An exploded view of the track mechanism;

[0066] Fig.45 yes Fig.39 a right side view of the assembly shown;

[0067] Fig.46 shows a left front perspective view of the shoulder harness on the driver's seat;

[0068] Fig.47 Shows Fig.46 a right front perspective view of a shoulder wear device;

[0069] Fig.48 a left rear perspective view showing a strap extending around the back of the driver's seat back;

[0070] Fig.49 is a left front perspective view of the retractor mechanism exploded from the seat frame;

[0071] Fig.50 A right rear perspective view of the air system of the present vehicle is shown;

[0072] Fig.51 shows a left front perspective view of a protective panel located behind the side-by-side seats;

[0073] Fig.52 is similar to Fig.51 , showing the protective panels removed from the vehicle main frame;

[0074] Fig.53 is a right front perspective view showing the radiator assembly and a left headlight positioned adjacent the radiator;

[0075] Fig.54 is a top view showing a left headlight positioned adjacent to a radiator;

[0076] Fig.55 A left front perspective view of the shift mechanism is shown;

[0077] Fig.56 The shift mechanism is shown exploded from the seat frame and assembly;

[0078] Fig.57 An exploded view of the shift assembly is shown;

[0079] Fig.58 shows a left front perspective view of a passenger grab bar assembly;

[0080] Fig.59 Shows Fig.58 The disassembled grip lever mechanism;

[0081] Fig.60 Shows Fig.59 A left rear exploded view of a grab bar mechanism;

[0082] Fig.61 shows a bottom perspective view of a grip lever locking mechanism;

[0083] Fig.62 shows a left rear perspective view of a steering mechanism for a vehicle;

[0084] Fig.63 yes Fig.62 A left front perspective view of the steering mechanism with the wiring housing partially broken away;

[0085] Fig.64 It passes through Fig.63 A cross-sectional view taken along line 64-64;

[0086] Fig.65 It passes through Fig.63 A cross-sectional view taken along line 65-65;

[0087] Fig.66 It passes through Fig.63 A cross-sectional view taken along line 66-66;

[0088] Fig.67 A left front perspective view of the driver's side door is shown;

[0089] Fig.68 Shows Fig.67 An inside perspective view of the driver's side door;

[0090] Fig.69 It is a right rear perspective view. Fig.62 Alternatives to the steering mechanism shown;

[0091] Fig.70 yes Fig.69 a partially exploded right rear perspective view of the steering wheel shown;

[0092] Fig.71 yes Fig.69 A partially exploded right front perspective view of a steering mechanism without a steering wheel;

[0093] Fig.72 yes Fig.69 A partial exploded view of a wiring housing of a steering mechanism;

[0094] Fig.73 An alternative cab frame for a vehicle is shown, which is Figures 27 to 32 An alternative to the cab frame shown in c;

[0095] Fig.74 yes Fig.73 A partial exploded view of the cab frame;

[0096] Fig.75 It passes through Fig.73 A cross-sectional view taken along line 75-75;

[0097] Fig.76 is a left front perspective view of a passenger grab bar, which is Figure 58 to Figure 61 Alternative to the passenger grab bar shown;

[0098] Fig.77 Shows Fig.76 A right rear perspective view of a passenger grab bar;

[0099] Fig.78 yes Fig.76 and Fig.77 an exploded view of a passenger grab bar assembly;

[0100] Fig.79 is a left front perspective view of a removable frame assembly, which is Figures 14 to 21 Alternatives to the removable frame assembly shown;

[0101] Fig.80 Shows Fig.79 a lower left perspective view of a frame of , wherein a removable frame portion is shown exploded from the remainder of the frame;

[0102] Fig.81 A lower perspective view of a removable bearing is shown. Figure 24 to Figure 26 Alternatives to the bearings shown;

[0103] Fig.82 yes Fig.81 An upper left perspective view of a bearing assembly;

[0104] Fig.83 A left front perspective view of a cooling assembly of a vehicle is shown with a voltage regulator mounted forward of and above a radiator shroud;

[0105] Fig.84 Shows Fig.83 An exploded view of the components shown;

[0106] Fig.85 Shows Fig.83 a left front perspective view of the radiator shroud shown;

[0107] Fig.86 Shown is a left front perspective view of the seating area, which is Figures 38 to 49 Alternative seating areas as detailed in;

[0108] Fig.87 is similar to Fig.86 's view with the main vehicle frame removed;

[0109] Fig.88 is similar to Fig.87 , showing an exploded view of the seat adjustment mechanism;

[0110] Fig.89 A left front perspective view of a seat frame is shown;

[0111] Fig.90 yes Fig.89 An exploded view of the seat frame;

[0112] Fig.91 Shows Fig.86 A right front perspective view of a longitudinally movable track system;

[0113] Fig.92 Shown is a connector coupled to the bottom of the driver's seat. Fig.91 A bottom perspective view of a track system;

[0114] Fig.93 yes Fig.92 Right front perspective view of the track system and seats;

[0115] Fig.94 Shows Fig.92 an underside perspective view of a seat showing the release mechanism exploded from the remainder of the seat;

[0116] Fig.95 Shows Fig.94 a left front perspective view of the seat release mechanism shown;

[0117] Fig.96 Shows Fig.95 A right rear perspective view of a seat release mechanism;

[0118] Fig.97 Shows something like Fig.96 , showing the components of the release mechanism exploded;

[0119] Fig.98 Shown through Fig.95 A cross-sectional view taken along line 98-98 of the embodiment of the present invention, wherein the seat is in a latched position;

[0120] Fig.99 is similar to Fig.98 sectional view showing the seat released in the unlocked position;

[0121] Fig.100 A left front perspective view of the vehicle's air intake system is shown. Figure 50 to Figure 52 Alternatives to the air intake system shown;

[0122] Fig.101 yes Fig.100 a rear perspective view of the air intake system with the vehicle frame removed;

[0123] Fig.102 Shows Fig.100 Air intake vents for the air intake system;

[0124] Fig.103 is similar to Fig.100 , showing a removable panel of the vehicle positioned forward of the air intake system;

[0125] Fig.104 is similar to Fig.103, showing the upper portion of the panel removed;

[0126] Fig.105 An exploded view of the entire panel is shown;

[0127] Fig.106 shows a left front perspective view of a seat assembly;

[0128] Fig.107 is similar to Fig.106 , showing the cushioning portion of the seat removed;

[0129] Fig.108 is similar to Fig.107 , showing the rear sides of several of the cushions, illustrating their latching features;

[0130] Fig.109 is similar to Fig.108 , showing a bottom seat cushion;

[0131] Fig.110 is similar to Fig.109 , showing the front bottom portion;

[0132] Fig.111 An exploded view of the left shoulder blade pad is shown;

[0133] Fig.112 shows a front perspective view of a steering wheel with modular switches;

[0134] Fig.113 A front perspective view showing a continuously variable transmission (CVT) of a vehicle; and

[0135] Fig.114 Shown through Fig.113 A cross-sectional view of line 114-114. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0136] First reference Figures 1 to 10 , the vehicle of the present invention will be described. As shown, the vehicle is generally indicated by the reference numeral 2 and includes a front wheel 4 and a rear wheel 6. The front wheel 4 includes a rim 8 and a tire 10, while the wheel 6 includes a rim 14 and a tire 16. The wheels 4 and 6 support a vehicle frame, which is generally shown at 20 and supports a seating area 22 including a driver's seat 24 and a passenger seat 26. The cab frame is shown at 28 and generally extends over the seating area 22 to protect the passengers from objects such as tree branches. A six-point shoulder harness 30 ( Figure 5 ), but for clarity, the shoulder harness is shown only as being positioned above the driver's seat 24. A passenger grab bar 32 is provided in the seat 26 for the passenger. Figure 2 As best shown, the vehicle 2 further includes a steering assembly, generally indicated at 34, for steering the front wheels 4, whereby the steering assembly 34 includes a steering wheel 36 which is both tiltable and longitudinally movable as further described herein.

[0137] The vehicle 2 further includes a front suspension ( Figure 2 ), the front suspension is a double A-arm suspension in the present disclosure, and the vehicle further includes a rear suspension 42, which is a trailing arm suspension as shown in the present disclosure. For the purpose of cooling the powertrain, a radiator 46 is provided. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As best shown, the powertrain includes an engine 50, a continuously variable transmission (CVT) 52 ( Figure 4 ), and by the shift assembly 60 ( Figure 5 ) operated shiftable transmission 76 ( Figure 7 In a preferred version of the invention, the vehicle is a four-wheel drive vehicle comprising a front angled gear drive 70 ( Fig. 9 ), the front stub shaft 72 is connected to the gear drive 70 to drive the front wheels 4. A rear angled gear drive 76 ( Figure 7 ) to drive the half shaft 78, the half shaft drives the rear wheel 6. Finally, and refer to Fig.10 , the vehicle 2 includes an intake system 80 , an exhaust system 82 , and a CVT cooling system 84 .

[0138] Reference now Figures 11 to 13 , the frame 20 will be described in more detail. Fig.11 , the frame 20 includes an outer frame tube 100 and an inner frame tube 102. The outer tube includes a longitudinally extending portion 104 and a vertically extending portion 106. The frame tube 102 includes a horizontally extending portion 108 and a vertically upright frame tube 110. The outer frame tube 112 extends forward and generally parallel to the frame tube 104, and is connected to the upright frame tube 114. The frame tube 114 supports a U-shaped frame tube 116 with a coupler 118, and the cab frame 28 is attached to these couplers. The U-shaped tube 116 is supported by a front frame portion 120, which includes a fixed front frame portion 122 and a removable front frame portion 124. The fixed front frame portion 122 includes three groups of frame tubes extending upward, namely, frame tubes 126, frame tubes 128 and frame tubes 130. The fixed frame portion also includes transverse frame members 132, 134 and 136. Finally, the fixed front frame portion 122 includes a longitudinal tube portion 140.

[0139] Still reference Fig.11, the seat support is generally shown at 150 and includes transverse frame tubes 152 and 154, and longitudinal frame tube pairs 156 and 158, which support seats 24, 26, respectively, as further described herein. A body tunnel portion 160 is disposed between the frame tube pairs 156, 158 and allows for wiring, etc., from the front of the frame to the rear of the frame. An underbody cover 164 is positioned beneath the seat frame 150 to protect the occupants from rocks and dirt as the vehicle traverses various terrains. It should be noted that an underbody cover 164 may also be provided. Figure 8 The underbody covering 164 is viewed from the bottom side of the vehicle 2 .

[0140] Reference now Figures 11 to 13 , the rear part of the frame will be described. First, refer to Fig.11 , a powertrain support area 170 is provided, which includes a rearwardly extending frame tube 172 and an upwardly extending frame tube 174. The frame tube 174 extends upwardly and includes brackets 176, and the rear portion of the cab frame 28 is connected to these brackets as further described herein. Now referring to Fig.12 , a cab frame support area 180 is provided having a transverse tube, indicated at 182, coupled to the forwardly projecting tube portion 174a of the frame tube 174. The transverse tube 182 is also coupled to the frame tubes 106, 110. A bracket 186 is coupled to the two frame tubes 174a, 182 and includes a base portion 188 and an upper plate portion 190 having apertures 192 therethrough having fasteners 194 inside thereof for receiving bolts as further described herein.

[0141] Reference now Fig.12 and Fig.13 , the multi-purpose bed support area 200 will be described in more detail. The support area 200 includes transverse tubes 202 extending between the upright frame tubes 110, and a rear plate 206 extending transversely to the frame tubes 174 and coupled to these frame tubes. A channel-shaped bracket 208 is coupled to the plate 206 and, together with the frame tubes 202, supports the longitudinally extending frame tubes 210. Fig.12 and Fig.13 As shown, frame tubes 210 may be held in place by fasteners 220 and 222 .

[0142] Reference again Fig.11 , door support brackets are provided on both the driver and passenger sides, whereby brackets 224 and 226 extend forwardly from tube 106 on the driver side, and brackets 224 and 238 extend forwardly on the passenger side.

[0143] Reference now Figures 14 to 18, a first embodiment of the removable front frame portion 124 will be described. Fig.14 As shown, a coupler 230 is provided that couples to the frame tubes 108, 109, and 130 and provides an interface to the removable frame portion 124 as described herein. Fig.15 and Fig.16 , the removable frame portion 124 includes a longitudinal tube portion 234 coupled to a front plate 236. The plate 236 includes an upper bracket portion 238 having an aperture indicated at 240. An L-shaped bracket arm 244 is coupled between the tube 234 and the plate 236. The L-shaped bracket 244 includes an upper arm portion 250 that provides a mount for the differential 70. A rear coupler 254 is provided that is complementary to the coupler 230 and is coupled to the frame tube 234. The coupler 254 may be a cast metal member such as aluminum and may be attached to the tube 234 by fasteners, industrial adhesives, and / or welding.

[0144] like Fig.16 As best shown, mounting brackets 260 and 262 are directly coupled to the frame tube 234 for mounting the lower A-arms of the front suspension 40. Brackets 264 and 266 ( Fig.15 ) is coupled to the frame tube 140 for mounting the upper A-arm of the front suspension. The fixed front frame portion 122 includes a mounting bracket 268 ( Fig.15 ).

[0145] Reference now Figures 16 to 18 , connectors 230 and 254 will be described in more detail. Fig.16 As best shown, the coupling 254 includes a semi-circular opening 270 that provides clearance for a drive shaft coupled to a shaft 272 of the differential 70. The coupling 254 also includes a notch 276 and an aperture indicated at 278.

[0146] like Fig.17 and Fig.18As shown, the coupler 230 includes a base portion 280, each having faces 282 and 284, each of which provides a set of coupling pegs 286, 288 arranged in a circular pattern. The size of each set of coupling pegs 286, 288 is determined to be received in the inner diameter of the tubes 109, 108, respectively, thereby fastening these tubes to the coupler 230. The coupler 230 further includes a semicircular upright coupler portion 290 coupled to the frame tube 130. The tubes 108, 109 and 130 can be held in place by additional fasteners, or can be welded in place or held in place by industrial adhesives. The L-shaped arm 300 also extends upward from the body portion 280 and includes a horizontally extending wall 302 having a peg 304 and an orifice 306. It should be understood that the peg 304 corresponds to the notch 276 of the coupler 254, and when the couplers 230, 254 are properly aligned, the orifice 306 is aligned with the orifice 278. like Fig.18 As best shown, the coupler 230 further includes a forward facing wall 310 having a through hole 312 and a square aperture 314 .

[0147] Reference now Figures 19 to 23 , an alternative removable front frame portion 320 will be described in more detail. As shown, the removable front frame portion 320 is similar to the removable front frame portion 124, except that the L-shaped bracket 244 is not included. Instead, as in this embodiment, a bracket 322 for mounting the differential is coupled to the frame tubes 132 and 140, and the differential 70 is not removed through the removable front frame portion 320. The coupling 330 is coupled to the frame tubes 108, 109 and 130 in a similar manner as described above.

[0148] like Fig. 22 and Fig.23 As shown, the coupler 330 includes a base portion 332, each having faces 334 and 336, each of which provides a set of coupling pegs 338, 340, respectively. Each set of coupling pegs 338, 340 is arranged in a circular pattern and is sized to be received in the inner diameter of the tubes 109, 108, respectively, thereby fastening the tubes 109, 108 to the coupler 330. The coupler 330 further includes a semicircular upright coupler portion 342 coupled to the frame tube 130. The tubes 108, 109 and 130 can be held in place by additional fasteners, or can be welded in place or held in place by an industrial adhesive. The L-shaped arm 350 also extends upwardly from the body portion 332 and includes a peg 354 and an orifice 356 ( Fig.23 ) horizontally extending wall 352. It should be understood that the peg 354 corresponds to the notch 276 of the coupler 254, and when the couplers 230, 254 are properly aligned, the orifice 356 is aligned with the orifice 278. Fig. 22As best shown, the coupler 230 further includes a forward facing wall 360 having a through hole 362 and a square aperture 364 .

[0149] Reference now Figure 24 to Figure 26 , the removable bearing assembly 370 will now be described. Fig.24 As best shown, the removable bearing assembly 370 is shown attached to and straddling the frame tube 102 ( Fig.11 ) longitudinal portion 108. As shown, the frame tube 108 includes a bracket 372 for coupling the bearing assembly 370 to the frame tube 108. The removable bearing assembly 370 includes a channel-shaped support member 374 to which the bracket 376 is mounted. Fig.26 As best shown, the bracket 376 includes an upper support wall 378 and a recessed wall, indicated at 380. Threaded openings, indicated at 382, ​​are provided which receive fasteners 384.

[0150] A bearing 386 is provided having an outer frame portion 388 including a flange indicated at 390 having a mounting aperture 392. As shown, the drive shaft 400 includes a front drive shaft portion 402 and a rear drive shaft portion 404, wherein the front drive shaft 402 includes a splined outer shaft 406 and wherein the rear shaft 404 includes a universal joint 408 having an internal spline indicated at 410. It should be appreciated that the front shaft portion 402 extends forwardly to couple with the front differential 70 ( Fig.14 ), and the rear drive shaft portion 404 extends rearwardly and is connected to the transmission 56 ( Figure 7 ) connection. Fig.26 As best shown, the bearing 386 includes an inner rotatable bearing 420 so that when in Fig.24 In the fully assembled position, the surface 422 of the front drive shaft portion 402 and the surface 424 of the rear drive shaft portion 404 engage the bearing portion 420 , with the splined shaft 406 fully inserted into the splined coupling 410 .

[0151] Therefore, when in Fig.24 When the vehicle is in the fully assembled position and when the drive shaft needs to be removed for maintenance purposes, the underbody cover 164 ( Figure 8 ) is removed, which provides access to the removable bearing assembly 370. Removing the fastener 412 from its corresponding fastener 414 on the bracket 372 allows the channel 374 to drop downward, disengaging the splined shaft 406 and the splined coupling 410, thereby allowing the two drive shaft sections 402, 404 to be removed.

[0152] Reference now Figure 27 to Figure 29, the cab frame 28 will be described in more detail. As shown, the cab frame 28 generally includes a frame tube 430, a cross tube 432, a clamping assembly 434, a cross tube 436, a clamping assembly 438, and a support portion 440. Fig.28 As best shown, frame tubes 430 are shown including a front portion 444 having a coupler at 446, a center portion 448, and a rear portion at 450, and including a downwardly extending portion 451 having a coupler at 452. Each of the front section 444, the center section 448, the rear section 450, and the downwardly extending section 451 are separated by angled portions at 456, 458, and 459. Cross tubes 432 and 436 include apertures at 460 and 462.

[0153] The clamp assembly 434 further includes an upper clamp half 470 and a lower clamp half 472, wherein each clamp half includes a channel 476 having a radiused portion 478 and a generally straight section indicated at 480. The radiused section 478 is located on the bottom side of the angled portion 456, and the straight section 480 receives the tube portion 444. The upper clamp portion 470 is a pure mirror image of the clamp portion 472 to receive the radiused section 456 and the upper portion of the front section 444. The clamp portion 470 further includes a raised section indicated at 486 having an aperture indicated at 488. A curved corner indicated at 490 is provided that matches the radius of the cross tube 432. Although the upper clamp half 470 and the lower clamp half 472 are shown exploded from the frame tube 430, it should be understood that they are welded together.

[0154] Inserts 494 are provided for insertion through the upper and lower sections of aperture 460, wherein each insert includes a head portion 500 and a tubular section, indicated at 502, and an aperture 504 extending through insert 494. Insert 494 is thus positioned in aperture 460, with head portion 500 positioned outside of cross tube 432 and tubular portion 504 extending into aperture 460. Clamp halves 470, 472 are then positioned on tube 430, with aperture 488 aligned with aperture 504, and fastener 510 may then be received through aperture 488 and fastener 512 at its opposite end.

[0155] The cross tube 436 is coupled to the frame tube 430 in substantially the same manner as described above with respect to the cross tube 432, wherein the clamp 438 includes clamp halves 520, 522, and the insert 524 includes a head portion 526, a tubular portion 528, and an aperture 530 extending therethrough. The tubular portion 528 of the insert 524 is positioned in the aperture 462 of the cross tube 436, and the clamp halves 520 and 522 may then be positioned above and below the frame tube 430 and the cross tube 436. The fastener 534 may be positioned through the aperture 536 of the clamp halves 438 to receive the fastener 538 after the fastener 534 has passed through the clamp halves 522. Fig.29 436, whereby the inserts 524 are shown positioned through the cross tube 436 such that the inserts abut against each other and prevent crushing the cross tube 436. At the same time, the clamp halves 520 and 522 are shown positioned on the insert 524, with the fasteners 534, 538 securing the clamp halves 520, 522 and the frame tube 430 and cross tube 436 together. It should also be appreciated that the cross-sectional view through the cross tube 432 appears similar to the cross tube 436. Fig.29 The cross-sections of are substantially the same, except for the direction of the front section 444 of the tube 430 .

[0156] Pillar 440 Fig.28 540 and an outer support portion 542. As shown, the inner support portion 540 includes an upper flange portion indicated at 544 having an orifice 546. The inner support portion 540 also includes a lower orifice indicated at 548. The outer support portion 542 also includes an upper flange portion 550 having an orifice indicated at 552, and a lower orifice indicated at 554. Fig. 27 As shown, inner leg portion 540 and outer leg portion 542 are aligned with each other so that apertures 546 and 552 are aligned. This also aligns aperture 548 with the leftmost aperture 554. Bracket 560 ( Fig.28 ) is coupled to each side of the frame tube 430, whereby fasteners 564 can be received through apertures 552, 546, and 562. It should also be appreciated that fasteners (not shown) can be received through apertures 554 of the outer brace portion 542 and through apertures 192 ( Fig.12 ) and are received to couple with fasteners 194. This couples strut portions 540 and 542 to frame tubes 430 and frame brackets 190 ( Fig.12 ).

[0157] It should be understood from the above description that the frame tube 430 is a continuous one-piece member having bends indicated at 456, 458 and 459 to define the frame tube 430. Fig.28Furthermore, the inner and outer brace portions 540, 542 may be stamped and formed metal members, or may be cast materials such as cast aluminum.

[0158] Reference now Figure 30 to Figure 32 , showing an alternative cab frame indicated at 570, which may be used in place of the cab frame previously described with reference to Figure 27 to Figure 29 The cab frame 28 is shown in FIG. 5. The cab frame 570 generally includes a longitudinal tube 572, cross braces 574, 575, a front clamp 576, a rear clamp 578, and a support member 580. Fig.31 As shown, tube 572 includes front portion 580, center portion 582, rear portion 584, and angled portion 586. Bend portion 588 is positioned between tube portions 580 and 582; bend portion 590 is positioned between tube portions 582 and 584; and bend portion 592 is positioned between tube portions 584 and 586. Coupler 594 extends from tube portion 580, and coupler 596 extends from tube portion 586.

[0159] Clamp member 576 is similar to clamp member 434 and includes clamp halves 600, 602. Clamp halves 600 and 602 are identical to clamp members 470, 472, except that clamp members 600, 602 include a raised section, indicated at 604, that includes an aperture, indicated at 606. Cross tube 574 includes an insert, indicated at 610, that has an aperture, indicated at 612. Clamp halves 600, 602 are clamped to tube 572 by fasteners 614 positioned through apertures 606, 612 and receiving fasteners 616. Although upper and lower clamp halves 600, 602 are shown exploded from frame tube 572, it should be understood that they are welded together.

[0160] Clamp 578 includes clamp halves 620, 622 and is substantially similar to clamp halves 600, 602, having a raised section 624 and an aperture indicated at 626. Insert 630 is identical to insert 610 and has an aperture indicated at 632. In a similar manner, clamp 578 includes fasteners 636, 638 to couple tube 572 and cross tube 575 together into a Fig.30 Configuration. Fig.32 As shown in the cross-sectional view of , insert 630 includes a body portion 640 for receiving raised section 624. Reduced diameter portion 642 is positioned within cross tube 575 and may be held in place by known techniques such as fasteners, welding, or industrial adhesives.

[0161] Reference now Fig.31, the support post 580 will be described in more detail. As shown, the support post portion 580 is of generally triangular configuration having an inner surface having generally cylindrical recesses, indicated at 650, which are contoured to receive raised sections 652 on the tube member 572. The fastener 654 is received through the raised member 652 and is received in the threadable opening 656. The lower end of the support post member 580 includes an extension 660 having apertures 662 that align with the apertures 192 ( Fig.12 ) to couple the support portion 580 to the bracket portion 186. The support portion 580 includes a forward-facing aperture 664 having a threaded lug 666 aligned with the aperture 664. In the case where a three-point harness is required instead of a six-point shoulder harness 30 ( Figure 5 ), the aperture 664 may be used to mount the retractor. A fastener assembly 668 may be provided for mounting the accessory directly to the cab frame 570.

[0162] Reference now FIG. 32A to FIG. 32C , shows another embodiment of the cab frame indicated at 1250, which can be used to replace the cab frame as previously referenced Figures 27 to 32 Cab frame 1250 is similar to cab frame 570 and similarly includes longitudinal tubes 572, cross braces 574, and front clamps 576. Rear clamps 1252, rear cross braces 1254, and strut members 1256 are different and will be described herein.

[0163] like Fig.32B As best shown, the rear clamp 1252 includes a partially cylindrical member 1260 having apertures indicated at 1262 which are complementary to the raised sections 652 as shown so as to receive the raised sections 652 therein. The rear clamp is either welded to the raised sections or held in place by industrial adhesives or other known fastening techniques. The rear clamp 1252 further includes integrated couplers 1266 which are substantially similar in configuration to couplers 594, 596. The cross tube 1254 includes a tube 1270 having a coupler 1272 at each end thereof which are complementary to couplers 1266. Fasteners 1274, 1276 attach the couplers 1266, 1272 together and thereby couple the cross brace 1254 to the longitudinal tube 582. As shown in FIG. Fig.32C As shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 , the insert 1272 includes a body portion 1280 and a reduced diameter portion 1282 positioned within the cross tube 1270 and can be held in place by known techniques such as fasteners, welding, or industrial adhesives. It should also be understood that the front cross brace 574 can be configured such as the rear brace 1254 together with the rear clamp 1252.

[0164] Reference again Fig.32B , the support portion 1256 will be described in more detail. As shown, the support portion 1256 is similar to the support portion 580 and includes a generally triangular configuration having an inner surface having generally cylindrical recesses, indicated at 1290, which are contoured to receive the raised sections 652 on the tube member 572. The fastener 1292 is received through the raised section 652 and is received into the threadable fastener 1294. The lower end of the support member 1256 includes an extension 1296 having apertures 1298 that align with the apertures 192 ( Fig.12 ) to connect the support portion 580 to the bracket portion 186.

[0165] Still reference Fig.32B , the support portion 1256 includes a forward-facing aperture 1300 having a threaded lug 1302 aligned with the aperture 1300. In the case where a three-point harness is required instead of a six-point shoulder harness 30 ( Figure 5 ), the aperture 1300 may be used to mount a retractor. As in the case of the strut portion 580, the strut portion 1256 may be a forging or casting such as aluminum or other strong metal.

[0166] refer to Figure 33 to Figure 37 , the rear multi-purpose bed 670 of the present invention will now be described. The multi-purpose bed 670 is positioned within the rear vehicle body portion 672 such that the multi-purpose bed 670 is defined as a removable tub that can be inserted into and removed from the vehicle when desired by the operator. Fig.34 As best shown, the body portion 672 includes an upper platform portion 674 having an opening 676 therethrough formed by an upper peripheral wall 678 defined by a front portion 678a, an angled portion 678b, a side portion 678c, a rear angled portion 678d, and an end portion 678e. The body portion 672 is supported by the cross tube 182 of the frame, as shown in FIG. Fig.35 Best shown.

[0167] like Fig.36 and Fig.37 As shown, the removable basin 670 includes a floor portion 680 that forms a perimeter around the interior of the removable basin 670, such as Fig.37 The raised portion 682 defines a pattern of channel segments 684 which, in this embodiment, extend in a rearwardly angled V-shaped channel. The removable basin 670 includes a front wall 690, an angled front wall 692, side walls 694, an angled rear wall 696, and a rear wall 698. Fig.36As best shown, the removable basin 670 also includes an upper peripheral wall 700 having a front lip indicated at 702, an angled side lip 704, a side lip 706, a rear angled lip 708, and a rear lip indicated at 710. It should be appreciated that the removable basin 670 is slidably received within the opening 676 ( Fig.34 ) and the peripheral wall 700 of the removable basin is composed of the peripheral wall 678 and the longitudinal frame tube 210 ( Fig.13 and Fig.35 ) support. The removable basin 670 can be latched in place by a quarter-turn locking member 716 having a handle 718 and a rotating latch member 720.

[0168] The removable basin 670 is defined with drainage holes, namely, two drainage holes 724 ( Fig.35 and Fig.36 ) and two drainage holes indicated at 726 in the front thereof ( Fig.35 and Fig.37 ), so that the channel 680 opens into the openings 724, 726 for drainage. It should also be noted that the drainage holes 724, 726 are positioned so that the location of the water draining downward does not contact any hot surfaces or items of the vehicle that may be damaged by water, such as the electrical controls of the vehicle.

[0169] Finally, and with reference Fig.33 The combination of the tub portion 670 and the rear body portion 672 defines a step area 730 through the combination of the outer peripheral wall 700 and the inner wall 732. The step area 730 is defined such that the distance between the two opposite walls 732 of the rear body portion 672 is greater than the diameter of one or both of the wheels 4, 6; and the distance between the two opposite walls 694 of the tub portion 670 is less than the diameter of one or both of the wheels 4, 6. This allows a spare wheel to be stored on the step area 730.

[0170] Reference now Figure 38 to Figure 45 , the seat adjustment mechanism 740 will be described. As previously described, the driver seat 24 and the passenger seat 26 are coupled to the seat frame 150. As described herein, the seat adjustment mechanism 740 couples the seats 24, 26 to the seat frame 150 while allowing them to move in the fore-and-aft direction as well as to tilt. Fig.40 As best shown, the seat adjustment mechanism 740 includes a longitudinally movable track system 742 and a seat mount 744 coupled to the track system 742. The longitudinally movable track system 742 moves along the pair of tubes 156 and 158 as described herein.

[0171] Reference now Fig.43 and Fig.44, the track system 742 includes two channels 748 that are almost identical, and includes rollers 750 ( Fig.44 As shown, each track has four rollers 750), which are held in the channel 748 by fasteners 752. Fig.44 As shown, the track is arranged without the longitudinal tube 156, but it should be understood that the longitudinal tube 156 will be positioned within the channel 748 and positioned in the middle of the pair of rollers 750 so that the channel 748 will move forward and backward under the cooperation of the rollers 750 on both sides of the tube 156. In addition to the fastener 752, and as shown Fig.44 As best shown, each channel 748 includes a post 754 that provides a spacer between the plates of the channel 748 and receives a fastener 752 therethrough to attach a bracket 756 having an elongated aperture indicated at 756a, as will be further described herein.

[0172] like Fig.43 As best shown, one of the longitudinal tubes 156 includes a plurality of longitudinally spaced openings 758 for locking the passage 748 in a plurality of different longitudinal positions. Fig.44 As best shown, one of the channels has a cut-out portion at 760 coupled to an actuator 762, and a positioner 764 ( Fig.43 ) is positioned between the rod 766 and the cutout 760, wherein the pegs 768 can be aligned with the spaced-apart openings 758. Thus, when the actuator 762 is moved along Fig.44 758, the rod 766 moves the peg 768 away from the opening 758 so that the channel 748 can be moved along the longitudinal tube 156 in cooperation with the roller 750. When the cutout 760 acts as a spring, the release actuator 762 moves the peg back to its original position and aligns with the two openings indicated at 750 to lock the seat in a certain longitudinal position. The steady state position of the peg 768 is the locked position in the two selected openings 758. Although the retainer 764 is shown with two pegs, any number may be used.

[0173] Reference again Fig.43, the tilt mechanism 744 includes an inner frame member 780 and an outer frame member 782, wherein each pair of frame members 780 and 782 are connected at their front ends by a peg 784 and at their rear ends by a spacer rod 786. The inner and outer frame members include a U-shaped opening as described herein, indicated at 788. The tilt mechanism 744 is connected to the channel 748 by an upper hinge pair 790 and a lower hinge pair 792, whereby these hinge pairs are located between the frame members 780, 782 on each side, and the apertures 794 and 796 are aligned with the threaded cylinder 798. The fastener 800 can then be positioned on the upper hinge 790 to connect the hinge pair 790, 792 to the channel 748. Each hinge pair 790, 792 includes an arcuate configuration indicated at 802 and 804, thereby allowing the rod 786 to rotate relative to the hinge pair 790, 792. This allows the pair of frame members 780, 782 to rotate or tilt relative to the channel 748. This also allows the tilt mechanism 744 to move as the track member 742 moves longitudinally along the longitudinal tube 156.

[0174] The tilt mechanism also includes a locking device to maintain the seats 24, 26 in each tilt position. The locking device is generally 810 ( Fig.43 ) is shown, including a spacer rod 812, a support 814, a compression spring 816, a locking device 818, a rotating cam 820, an actuator 822, and an elongated fastener 824. The spacer rod 812 is coupled to the channel 748 via a flange 830 coupled to the top of each channel, whereby the orifice 832 is positioned above the threaded member 836, and the fastener 838 couples the spacer rod 812 to the channel member. Fig.43 As shown, the outer frame member 782 includes an extension 848 having serrated teeth indicated at 850. The coupler 818 includes complementary serrated teeth on its inner surface, and a rotating cam surface 854 on its outer surface that is complementary to the rotating cam 820. The extension 848 is positioned between the support 814 and the spring 816 so that when the rotating cam 820 is not engaged, the compression spring 816 presses the coupler 818 outwardly under the action of the spring pressure.

[0175] The actuator 822 is coupled to the assembly 810 by positioning the fastener 824 through the end of the actuator 822, through the rotating cam 820, through the coupler 818, through the compression spring 816, through the extension member 848, through the support 814, and through the tube 812. The fasteners 860, 862 couple the assembly 810 together. Thus, when the actuator member 822 rotates, the rotating cam releases compression against the extension 848, and the reclining mechanism 744 can rotate between the extreme contact positions of the slot 870 of the extension 848 and the fastener 824. When the user positions the seat in the appropriate recline position, the actuator 822 is activated to provide contact between the rotating cam, thereby causing the coupler 818 and the serrated teeth to contact to lock the seat in place.

[0176] like Figure 41 to Figure 43 As shown, the seat 24 can also be locked to the tilt mechanism 744. As shown, the tilt mechanism 744 includes two latches 880 ( Fig.42 ), these latches have openings 884 ( Fig.43 ) is connected to an aperture 882. As described herein, each latch includes a latch hook indicated at 886. Fig.42 As shown, the seat 24 includes a seat base 890 having a slotted opening indicated at 892 and a locking lever indicated at 894. Fig.41 As best shown, the locking rod 894 extends across and below the seat base 890. To attach the seat 24, the two slots 892 can be positioned on the tube 784 and the seat can be rotated downward so that the rod 894 is latched in place with the hook 886 located on the top of the rod 894 and the rod positioned in the opening 788 in a saddled manner, as shown. Fig.41 shown.

[0177] like Fig.45 As shown, the side view of the vehicle shows that the seat adjustment mechanism 740 has achieved both tilting and longitudinal movement of the seats 24 and 26, and there is almost no upward vertical movement, thereby advantageously keeping the center of gravity in the vehicle as low as possible when the weight of the occupant is positioned in the seat. This is due to the construction of the tilt mechanism being integrated into the track system and the positioning of the rollers 750 along the sides of the longitudinal tubes 156. Fig.45 Also provided is a view of a fuel tank 898 having a portion 898a below the seat 26 and a portion 898b behind the seat.

[0178] Reference now Figure 46 to Figure 49 , the shoulder harness 30 for the passenger will be described. Fig.46As best shown, the harness 30 is generally shown as a harness system 900 and includes a single retractor 902 coupled to the cross tube 152. As shown, the retractor 902 is coupled to the harness harness 900 that overlaps the seat 24, as described herein. Fig.49 , the cross tube 152 includes a bracket 906 coupled thereto, whereby the retractor 902 can be coupled to the bracket 906, which positions the retractor in front of and below the seat 24. This provides the weight of the retractor 902 at a lower position in the vehicle to lower the center of gravity of the entire vehicle 2. The retractor includes a single seat belt 910 that is fed rearwardly through a seat belt guide 912 ( Fig.49 ), which is also coupled to the cross tube 152. The belt guide 912 includes a guide wall 914 defining a belt passage indicated at 916 through which the belt 910 can move in the fore-aft direction.

[0179] like Fig.48 As shown, a belt loop, generally designated 920, is provided having a retainer 922 that is coupled to the cross tube 152 located behind the seat 24. The belt loop 920 further includes a loop 924 through which the safety belt 910 is fed. The safety belt 910 extends upwardly to form a Y-shaped configuration having two safety belt portions extending upwardly on the seat, namely, safety belt portions 926 and 928. Fig.46 As best shown, seat belts 926 and 928 extend upwardly through another set of loops 930 coupled to cross tube 182, wherein loops 930 are identical to loops 920 for routing seat belts 926 and 928 over the driver's left and right shoulders, respectively.

[0180] Still reference Fig.46 The wearer 30 further includes a waist safety belt 940, which includes a safety belt portion 942, one end of which is connected to a bracket 944 attached to the frame tube 112, and the other end is connected to a buckle 946 having a release button 948. The opposing waist safety belt 950 includes a tongue 952, which can be connected to the buckle 946 to keep the waist safety belts 942, 950 in a connected state. Fig.47 As best shown, the lap belt portion 950 is coupled at the opposite end to a hook 956 attached to the cross tube 152. Fig.46 and Fig.47 As shown in both, the seat belt portions 926 and 928 include a connecting portion 960 to connect the seat belt portions 926 and 928 to the buckle 946 and the tongue 952, respectively. The lower end of the seat belt system 900 includes the seat belt portions 960 and 962, which are separately connected to the bracket 756 ( Fig.46 and Fig.47). When the seat belts 926 and 928 are directly coupled to the retractor 902, and with the ends of the seat belt portions 960 and 962 coupled to the seat attachment mechanism 740, the seat belts 926 and 928 self-adjust as the seat moves in the fore-aft direction. When the lap belts 942, 950 are directly coupled to the frame (shown at 944 and 956) Fig.46 and Fig.47 ), it may be necessary to readjust these seat belts for each fore-aft position. It is contemplated that all or part of the seat belts will include a tightening mechanism to tighten or loosen the seat belts.

[0181] By arranging a single retractor and a Y-shaped ring at the rear of the seat, the wearer 30 has several advantages. As described above, placing the retractor 902 at a lower position in the vehicle reduces the center of gravity, but at the same time the lower mounting point reduces the locking of the retractor. However, this can also ensure that the two shoulder wearers are locked together due to the Y-shaped ring. This design also eliminates the retractor that is usually positioned at a high place and above the seat, thereby increasing the rear visibility of the passenger. Moreover, by positioning the retractor in front of the seat, this allows the safety belt 910 to have a considerable length (between the retractor and the Y-shaped ring), thereby allowing a significant change in possible operator size and adjustability. Alternatively, the retractor 902 can be positioned below the seat.

[0182] Reference now Figure 50 to Figure 52 , the air intake system of the vehicle will be described. Fig.50 As best shown, the vehicle's air intake system includes an air intake 84 for cooling the CVT 52 and an air intake system 80 for supplying air to the engine. As shown, the air intake system 84 includes an air intake frame 984, which can be formed in a trapezoidal area 986 of the support portion 440 (see FIG. Fig. 27 ) is directly coupled to the strut portion 440, wherein apertures 988 allow air to enter the frame 984. Air is also drawn through louvers 990 and into the frame 984. The air extends through the frame 984 and into a duct 992, which is directly coupled to the CVT 52 to draw air into the CVT 52 for cooling purposes.

[0183] In a similar manner, a frame 994 is provided on the passenger side pillar portion 440, which is connected to a duct 996, which is an air filter 998 ( Fig.52 ) of the engine, the outlet of the air filter reaching the duct 1000, which has an outlet 1002 for air intake to the engine. The air filter 998 is positioned directly behind the seats 24, 26 so that removing the protective panel 1004 provides easy access to the air filter 998, such as Fig.52 Best shown.

[0184] Reference now Fig.53 and Fig.54 , the packaging of the headlight relative to the heat sink will be described. Fig.53 As shown, the radiator 46 is coupled to the frame by a radiator frame 1010 having a box-shaped enclosure, indicated at 1012, surrounding the radiator 46, and side arms, indicated at 1014. A top bracket 1016 is provided, which is coupled to a U-shaped support 116 having a bracket 1018 conforming to the top of the radiator 46. A headlight 1020 is positioned adjacent the radiator, wherein the light has a diagonally shaped body portion 1022 ( Fig.54 ), and the electronics of the headlight define a staggered or notched design having rear body portions 1024 and 1026 defining a notched portion indicated at 1028. As shown, the radiator 46 is positioned in the notched portion 1028 such that the rear portion 1026 and the remainder of the headlight 1020 extend rearward of the radiator 46 such that the rearmost point of the headlight 1020 is rearward of the forwardmost point of the radiator 46. This design maximizes the location of the radiator and, therefore, the approach angle to the front of the vehicle.

[0185] Reference now Figure 55 to Figure 57 , the shift mechanism 1030 will be described in more detail. As shown, the shift mechanism 1030 generally includes a shift lever 1032, a shift plate 1034, a shifter housing 1036, and an actuator 1038. As shown, the shift assembly 1030 is coupled between the front frame tube 152 and the rear frame tube 154 and in the middle of the seats 24, 26. Now refer to Fig.57 , the shift lever 1032 includes a shift knob 1040 coupled to a shift rod 1042. The lever shaft 1042 includes a rounded portion 1044 including a bearing seat indicated at 1046. A ball joint bearing 1048 is positioned within an inner diameter 1050 of the bearing seat 1046 and is held in place by a snap ring 1052. A spring retainer 1054 is provided, which has a lower cylindrical portion 1056 and an upper arm 1058, which has a spring retaining aperture indicated at 1060. The shift rod 1042 also includes a lower flange indicated at 1064, which has a square opening indicated at 1066. In the illustrated embodiment, the bearing 1048 is a ball joint bearing, and the spring retainer 1054 rotates with the shift lever 1042. Finally, the shift lever 1042 includes an eyelet, indicated at 1070, and a spring 1072 is positioned between the eyelet 1070 and the aperture 1060 of the spring retainer 1050. The tension spring 1072 biases the shift lever toward the actuator within the shift plate 1034.

[0186] The shifter housing 1036 includes a lower flange, indicated at 1076, for mounting to the front cross tube 152, and a rear flange 1078 for mounting to the rear cross tube 154. A shift plate support platform 1080 is provided, flanked by an upright wall 1082 having cylindrical supports 1084 that serve as trunnions for supporting the shift lever assembly 1032. That is, a shaft 1086 extends through the cylindrical member 1084 through the bearing 1048, the cylindrical portion 1056 of the spring retainer 1054. A snap ring 1088 coupled to a groove 1090 in the shaft 1086 retains the shaft 1086 and the shift assembly 1032 to the cylindrical member 1084. The actuator 1038 includes a front head 1094 having a square shouldered fastener, indicated at 1096 , that mates with the square opening 1066 , and the fastener 1098 is coupled to the threaded end 1100 to secure the actuator 1038 to the shift assembly 1032 .

[0187] Reference now Figure 58 to Figure 61 , the passenger grip bar 32 will be described in more detail. Fig.11 , the frame includes a driver side bolster 1110 and a passenger side bolster 1112 to which a cross tube 1114 is coupled. The bolster 1112 is a stamped component, which allows for a lightweight solution and a custom shape that provides rigidity. Alternatively, the bolster 1112 may be a casting. Fig.58 As shown, bracket 1116 is coupled to cross tube 1114, and lower bracket 1118 is coupled to bracket 1116. Fig.59 and Fig.60 As shown, the bracket 1118 includes a flange portion 1122 and a tubular receiving member 1124. The tubular receiving member 1124 includes a slotted opening 1126 that extends to the front end ( Fig.58 ). The receiving member 1124 further includes a lower flange 1128 ( Fig.60 ), these lower flanges receive a rotating cam 1130 having an eccentric cam portion 1132. A detent 1134 is provided in the rotating cam 1130, which cooperates with a detent opening 1136. A sleeve 1140 is provided, which is received in the opening 1138 and has a tab lock 1142 that cooperates with an aperture 1144 of the sleeve 1124. The sleeve 1140 has an opening 1146 ( Fig.61 ) which receives a cam lock as further described herein.

[0188] The grip handle 1150 of the assembly includes a U-shaped handle 1152, which may be covered with a gripping portion, such as a thermoplastic rubber or foam member, and two elongated attachment rods 1154. Fig.61As best shown, the underside of the attachment rods 1154 includes a scalloped detent 1156. The free end of each rod 1154 includes an opening 1160 ( Fig.58 ), wherein the orifice 1162 ( Fig.60 ) is adjacent to the free end of the rod 1154. The leaf spring 1164 includes a guide lug 1166 positioned on one of the legs of the leaf spring 1164, and when positioned within the opening 1160 of the rod 1154, the guide lug 1166 protrudes through the aperture 1162, as shown in FIG. Fig.58 Best shown.

[0189] Thus, when the rod 1154 is inserted through the sleeve 1140 and into the tube 1124, the guide lug 1166 is positioned in the guide slot 1126, and when the rod 1154 is moved to the fully inserted position, the guide lug 1166 protrudes beyond the slot 1126, as shown in FIG. Fig.58 However, by rotating the cam lock 1130 downward, the rotating cam 1132 is disengaged from the round toothed portion 1156, and the new round toothed portion 1156 is aligned with the rotating cam eccentric cam 1132, and the rotating cam 1130 is moved back to Fig.58 While shown in the locked position, the grab bar 1150 can be moved to a number of other positions closer to the passenger seat.

[0190] like Fig.62 As shown, the steering assembly 34 is shown with a steering wheel 36. The steering assembly generally includes a power steering motor 1170, a frame portion 1172, a wiring housing 1174, and a disengagement lever 1176. Disengagement of the lever 1176 allows the frame 1172 to tilt up and down according to the directions of arrows 1178 and 1180. The steering wheel 36 can also move longitudinally in the direction of arrow 1182. A spring 1184 provides a biasing force at the position of arrow 1178.

[0191] like Figure 63 to Figure 66 As shown, the steering assembly has been modified to allow power to be interfaced to the front of the steering wheel for items such as control features to allow the steering wheel to rotate without the use of a clock spring. Fig.63 As best shown, the steering assembly 34 is shown with the wiring housing 1174 partially cut away to show the internal electrical cables 1186. The housing 1174 includes a tubular portion 1188 and a plate portion 1190. A cap 1192 is positioned on the plate portion 1190. Fig.64 As shown, the cable 1186 has a portion 1194 extending from the housing 1174 and a portion 1196 extending below the cap 1192.

[0192] Reference now Fig.65 and Fig.66, the cable portion 1196 will be described in more detail. As shown, the cable 1186 extends through the opening 1200 defined at the intersection of the tubular portion 1188 and the plate portion 1190. The cable portion 1196 extends around the steering column 1202 and is wound in the direction of the arrow 1204. The cable is wound to a position 1196a, where the cable extends laterally at 1196b and then forms a portion 1196 that extends rearward and interfaces with the front portion 1210 of the steering wheel 36. In this way, a strong but sealed connection is provided, which is an improvement over the clock spring type connection used in existing vehicles. This design has been proven to be effective in the environment of the vehicle described herein, which is intended to be used in dust and dirt.

[0193] Reference now Fig.67 and Fig.68 , showing a vehicle door assembly 1220, the door assembly includes a body portion 1222 and an inner frame portion 1224 ( Fig.68 ). Body portion 1222 is generally V-shaped, including upper and lower legs 1226, 1228, which define an opening 1230 therethrough, allowing air in the cabin to escape outwardly and create an air flow therethrough. An opening 1231 at its front end also provides an area for air to escape from the cabin. Frame 1224 is hingedly coupled to frame brackets 224 and 226 at the rear side of door 1220, and is latched to pad 1110. Thus, the door pivots outwardly about hinges 1232, 1234, but is latched at its front end.

[0194] Reference now Figures 69 to 72 , an alternative steering assembly will be described, which is Figure 62 to Figure 66 An alternative to the steering assembly shown. Steering assembly 1350 is shown having a steering wheel 1352. Steering assembly 1350 typically includes a power steering motor 1170 ( Fig.62 ), frame portion 1354, wiring housing 1356, and disengagement lever 1358. Steering wheel 1352 can also be moved longitudinally in the direction of arrow 1364. Spring 1370 provides a biasing force at the position of arrow 1360.

[0195] like Figures 69 to 72 As shown, the steering assembly has been modified to allow power to be interfaced to the front of the steering wheel 1352 for items such as control features to allow the steering wheel to rotate without the use of a clock spring. Fig.69As best shown, the steering assembly 1350 is shown with the wiring housing 1356 partially cut away to show the internal electrical cables 1372. The housing 1356 includes a tubular portion 1374 in which the cables 1372 extend. A cap portion 1376 of the wiring housing 1356 is positioned adjacent to the steering wheel 1352. Fig.70 and Fig.72 As shown, the cup-shaped portion 1380 is coupled to the rear side of the steering wheel 1352 by a fastener 1382. The cup-shaped portion 1380 includes a wiring outlet 1384 that extends from the rear side of the cup-shaped portion 1380 to the front side. Fig.69 and Fig.70 As shown, the cable 1372 has a portion 1390 that extends from the housing 1356 , and a portion 1392 that extends under the cap portion 1376 and then protrudes through the wiring outlet 1384 .

[0196] Reference now Fig.72 , the cable 1372 will be described in more detail. As shown, the cable 1372 extends through the tubular portion 1374 and enters the cap portion 1376. The wiring housing 1356 includes an inner diameter wall 1396, which together with the inner diameter 1398 of the cap portion 1376 defines an annular opening 1400. Therefore, when the steering wheel 1352 is turned, the cup-shaped portion 1380 rotates with the steering wheel 1352, and the cable 1372 is wound around the inner diameter wall 1396 and moves within the annular opening 1400. The cable 1372 can expand and contract due to its spiral configuration and can be covered by the sleeve 1402 for sealing purposes. When the tubular portion 1374 is positioned along the side of the steering column, the instrument can be positioned on the cap portion and can move with the cap portion. Alternatively, the instrument can be positioned at the top of the steering column.

[0197] like Fig.69 and Fig.71 As best shown, the steering assembly 1350 includes a housing 1410 from which extends a steering column 1412. The steering column 1412 extends through the wiring housing 1356, through the cup-shaped portion 1380, and through an opening 1414 ( Fig.70 ). The fastener 1416 is connected to the thread 1418 on the steering column 1412 ( Fig.71 ) connection. It should be understood that moving the lever 1358 allows the housing 1410 to be moved relative to the frame portion 1354 along the arrows 1360, 1362 ( Fig.69) direction. This also allows the steering column 1412 to move longitudinally relative to the rest of the steering assembly. A decorative cover portion 1420 can be coupled to the steering wheel 1352 to cover the fastener 1416. In this way, a strong but sealed connection is provided, which is an improvement over the clock spring type connection used in existing vehicles. This design has proven to be effective in the environment in which the vehicles described herein are intended to be used where dust and dirt may be present. Moreover, the instrument panel (see Figure 3 ) can be mounted to the upper surface 1422 and tilt with the steering assembly 1350, but is not retractable. When the passenger adjusts the tilt position of the steering assembly 1350, the position of the self-adjusting instrument 1424 is adjusted.

[0198] Reference now Figure 73 to Figure 75 , the cab frame 1425 will be described in more detail. As shown, the cab frame 1425 generally includes a frame tube 1430, a cross tube 1432, a bracket assembly 1434, a cross tube 1436, a bracket assembly 1438, and a support portion 1440. Fig.74 As best shown, frame tubes 1430 are shown including a front portion 1444 having a coupler at 1446, a center portion 1448, and a rear portion at 1450, and including a downwardly extending portion 1451 having a coupler at 1452. Each of the front section 1444, center section 1448, rear section 1450, and downwardly extending section 1451 are separated by angled portions at 1456, 1458, and 1459.

[0199] Bracket assembly 1434 includes flanges 1470 and 1472, each of which is coupled to a channel 1476 for receiving cross tube 1432. In a similar manner, bracket assembly 1438 includes flanges 1478 and 1480, each of which is coupled to a channel 1482 for receiving cross tube 1436. Cross tubes 1432 and 1436 include inserts 1490 that are coupled to the ends of tubes 1433 and 1436 and are received in the channels, as shown. Fig.74 Best shown. Fig.75 As best shown, insert 1490 includes apertures 1494 for receiving fasteners 1496 that couple to mating fasteners 1498 .

[0200] Pillar 1440 Fig.74 15 as best shown including front and rear tubes 1500, 1502 and connecting tubes 1504, 1506 and 1508. Lower coupling 1510 allows cab frame 1425 to be coupled to the vehicle frame.

[0201] It should be appreciated from the above description that the frame tube 1430 is a continuous one-piece member having bends indicated at 1456, 1458, and 1459. Furthermore, the insert 1490 may be a cast material such as cast aluminum.

[0202] Reference now Fig.11 and Figure 76 to Figure 78 , the alternative passenger grab bar 1520 will be described in more detail. Fig.11 , the frame includes a driver side bolster 1110 and a passenger side bolster 1112 to which a cross tube 1114 is coupled. The bolster 1112 is a stamped component, which allows for a lightweight solution and a custom shape that provides rigidity. Alternatively, the bolster 1112 may be a casting. Fig.76 and Fig.77 As shown, tube 1522 is coupled to cross tube 1114, and lower bracket 1523 is coupled to tube 1522. Fig.77 As shown, the bracket 1523 includes a tubular receiving member 1524, wherein the tubular receiving member 1524 includes a flange 1528 ( Fig.78 ), which receive a rotating cam 1530 having an eccentric cam portion 1532. A sleeve 1540 is provided which is received in the opening 1538 and has a lug lock 1542 which cooperates with an aperture 1544 of the tubular receiver 1524. The sleeve 1540 has an opening 1546 ( Fig.78 ) which receives a cam lock 1530, as further described herein.

[0203] The grip handle 1550 of the assembly includes a U-shaped handle 1552, which may be covered with a gripping portion, such as a thermoplastic rubber or foam member, and two elongated attachment rods 1554. Fig.78 As best shown, the inner side of the attachment rod 1554 includes a scalloped detent 1556. The free end of each rod 1554 includes an aperture 1562. The leaf spring 1564 includes a guide lug 1566 positioned on one of the legs of the leaf spring 1564 and protruding through the aperture 1562 when positioned within the open end of the rod 1554.

[0204] Thus, when the rod 1554 is inserted through the sleeve 1540 and into the tubular receiver 1524, the guide lugs 1566 are positioned in the guide slots 1570 and when the rod 1554 is moved into position, the guide lugs 1566 are positioned in the guide slots 1570. Fig.77 When the guide lug 1566 is in the fully inserted position, it protrudes beyond the narrow slot 1570, as shown in FIG. Fig.77However, by rotating the cam lock 1530 inwardly, disengaging the rotating cam 1532 from the round toothed portion 1556, aligning the new round toothed portion 1556 with the rotating cam eccentric portion 1532, and moving the rotating cam 1530 back to the locked position, the grab bar 1550 can be moved to a number of other positions closer to the passenger seat. It should be understood that only when the grab bar 1550 is in the fully rearward position closest to the passenger, the guide lug 1566 is positioned in the guide slot 1570 and forms a stop so that the grab bar cannot be pulled out of the chassis.

[0205] Reference now Fig.79 and Fig.80 , the alternative removable front frame portion 1620 will be described in more detail. As shown, the removable front frame portion 1620 is removable with the front frame portion 320 ( Fig. 20 ), except that the bracket 1622 for mounting the differential includes a slotted opening 1624 that allows the front final drive 70 to be suspended from the bracket 1622. The removable portion 1620 also has frame tubes 234 that have couplers 254 that are coupled to the coupler 330 in a similar manner as described above.

[0206] Reference now Fig.81 and Fig.82 , the removable bearing assembly 1670 will now be described. As shown, the removable bearing assembly 1670 is shown attached to and straddling the longitudinal portion 108. However, in this embodiment, the recessed wall, indicated at 1680, has a window 1682 that provides direct access to the bearing 386, while the recessed wall 380 is solid (see Fig.26 ). The removable bearing assembly 1670 is otherwise similar to that of Figure 24 to Figure 26 The removable bearing assembly shown and described is substantially the same.

[0207] refer to Figure 83 to Figure 85 , a cooling system of a vehicle will be shown and described. As shown, the cooling system is shown as 1700, which generally includes a radiator shroud 1702, a radiator 1704, and a fan 1706. Fig.85 As best shown, the shroud 1702 includes an upper wall, generally designated 1710, a side wall, generally designated 1712, and a lower wall, generally designated 1714, wherein the walls 1710-1714 define an opening 1716 that provides a passage for cooling air passing through the heat sink 1704. The side wall 1712 includes flanges 1720 and 1722 for respectively engaging with complementary flanges 1724 and 1726 ( Fig.84 ) connection. The upper wall 1710 includes a defined pocket portion indicated at 1730, such as Fig.83As shown, the pocket provides a mounting location for a voltage regulator 1732. The voltage regulator is mounted to a bracket (not shown) that overlies the pocket 1730 and positions the voltage regulator in the pocket 1730. Fig.83 When the shroud 1702 faces the front of the vehicle, air passes through the radiator 1704 and is moved into the shroud 1702 by the fan 1706. When the voltage regulator 1732 is placed in the direction of the air flow, the air flow also cools the voltage regulator.

[0208] like Fig.83 and Fig.84 As shown, latch 1734 extends forward from fan housing 1735 and is in Fig.83 The shroud 1702 includes a notch 1736 for clearance that receives the leading edge of the latch 1734, such as Fig.83 Best shown.

[0209] Reference now Figures 86 to 99 , an alternative seat adjustment mechanism will be described, which is Figure 38 to Figure 45 An alternative to the seat adjustment mechanism shown in FIG. As shown, the seat adjustment mechanism is shown as 1740, which allows the seat to be adjusted in both the fore-aft direction and the tilt direction. Fig.86 In the embodiment shown, the fore-aft adjustment is essentially the same as Figure 38 to Figure 45 The front and rear adjustments shown are identical and will therefore not be referenced again. Fig.86 However, the tilt mechanism 1734 is slightly different and will be described as such.

[0210] like Fig.91 As best shown, the seat adjustment mechanism 1740 includes a longitudinally movable track system 1742 that is adapted to move the seat adjustment mechanism 1740 relative to the longitudinally movable track system 1742. Fig.43 The longitudinally movable track system shown is substantially similar. The tilt mechanism 1744 includes an inner frame member 1780 and an outer frame member 1782, and in this configuration, through apertures 1784a, 1784b and 1784c ( Fig.91 ) allows only three discrete tilt positions. A bracket 1786 is coupled to the top of the longitudinally movable track system 1742, to which a fastener 1788 is secured. The fastener 1788 is internally threaded and can be aligned with any of the apertures 1784a, 1784b, or 1784c by rotating the frame members 1780 and 1782. Thus, fasteners 1800 are provided that can be positioned into any of the apertures 1784a-1784c and threadably engaged with the fastener 1788 to lock the frame members 1780 and 1782 in any of the three tilt positions.

[0211] In this embodiment, a release mechanism 1820 is also provided, which is connected to the bottom of the seat 24. Fig.92 As best shown, the release mechanism is positioned in the middle of the longitudinally movable track member 1742. As will be described, the release mechanism 1820 moves the latch 880 rearwardly, thereby decoupling the latch 880 from the locking rod 894. Fig.94 As best shown, the release mechanism 1820 is coupled to the bottom of the seat 24, whereby the seat 24 includes a front boss 1826 and a rear boss 1828, wherein the front boss 1826 includes a threaded opening 1830 and the rear boss 1828 includes a threaded opening 1832. The release mechanism 1820 is coupled to the bottom of the seat 24 by a front fastener 1834 coupled to the threaded opening 1830 and a fastener 1836 coupled to the threaded opening 1832.

[0212] Reference now Figure 95 to Figure 97 , the release mechanism 1820 will be described in more detail. As shown, the release mechanism 1820 generally includes a tray portion 1840, a release member 1842, a link 1844, and an actuator 1846. The tray portion 1840 includes a lower wall 1850, a front end wall 1852, a side wall 1854, and an upright portion 1856 extending from the side wall 1854. The front wall 1852 defines an arcuate ledge indicated at 1860, and the upright portion 1856 defines a bearing portion 1862. The release portion 1842 includes a lever portion 1870 extending forwardly from a shaft portion 1872, and a leg portion 1874 extending downwardly from the shaft portion 1872. It should be understood that the shaft portion 1872 cooperates with the arcuate ledge 1860 and can rotate therewith. The actuator 1846 includes a body portion 1880 having shaft portions 1882 extending outwardly therefrom and contoured to be rotatably received in the bearing portion 1862. A leg portion 1886 extends downwardly from the body portion 1880 and has an aperture 1888 extending therethrough. An actuator portion 1890 extends upwardly from the body portion 1880 and extends transversely to the body portion including a contact surface indicated at 1892.

[0213] The link portion 1844 includes a front link, generally designated 1900, having an aperture, generally designated 1902. A rear link 1906 has an aperture, generally designated 1908. A pin 1910 may be received through an aperture 1912 of the arm 1874 and the aperture 1902 of the link 1900. A circlip 1914 is received in a groove 1916 of the pin 1910. A pin 1920 may be received through an aperture 1888 of the actuator member 1846 and the aperture 1908 of the link member 1844, wherein a circlip 1924 may be received in a groove 1926 of the pin 1920.

[0214] Reference now Fig.98 and Fig.99 When the lever portion 1842 moves upward in the direction of arrow 1930 Fig.99 When the position shown in FIG. 1 is reached, the link 1844 moves in the direction of arrow 1932, which causes the actuator 1846 to rotate in the opposite direction of the rotation of arrow 1934. This rotation causes the contact surface 1892 to engage with the latch 880 ( Fig.92 ) and rotate these latches to release from rod 894.

[0215] Reference now Fig.87 , Fig.89 and Fig.90 , the movement of the passenger seat 26 will be described in more detail. Fig.87 , the passenger seat 26 does not have a longitudinally movable track system like the driver's seat, such as 1744. Instead, the passenger seat has two longitudinal positions for the seat 26, but these two longitudinal positions are fixed positions as described herein. Moreover, the seat 26 has the same tilt position as the driver's seat 24 as described herein.

[0216] like Fig.89 and Fig.90 As shown, the passenger seat does not include the longitudinal tube 156, but has an outer mounting rail 1940 and an inner mounting rail 1942. The outer mounting rail 1940 includes two longitudinally spaced fasteners 1944 that are coupled to the outer side of the rail 1940, and the outer rail also includes two sets of longitudinally spaced apertures indicated at 1946, including pairs of threaded openings indicated at 1946a, 1946b, and 1946c. Thus, in order to position the passenger seat 26 in the seat frame 150, the outer rail 1782 ( Fig.87 ) has a fastener 1944 ( Fig.89 ) and includes a second orifice that can be aligned with one of the orifices 1946a, 1946b or 1946c.

[0217] Reference now Figures 100 to 105 , the air intake system of the vehicle will be described. Fig.100 and Fig.101 As best shown, the air intake system of the vehicle includes an air intake 1950 for cooling the CVT 52 and an air intake system 1952 for drawing air into the engine. As shown, the air intake system 1950 includes an air intake frame 1954 that can be directly coupled to the support portion 1440, wherein air is drawn through louvers 1960, 1960a, and 1962 and into the frame 1954. The air travels through the frame 1954 and into a duct 1958 that is directly coupled to the CVT to draw air into the CVT for cooling purposes. Fig.101 As best shown, the frame 1954 has an inner intake surface 1960 and an outer intake surface 1962 for receiving air therein in the directions of arrows 1966 and 1968, respectively. The inner surface 1960 includes a portion 1960a that is at least partially inclined outwardly so that the air is received in the frame 1954 when the air moves in the direction of arrows 1970.

[0218] In a similar manner, a frame 1980 is provided on the passenger side pillar portion 1440, which is connected to a duct 1982, which is an air filter 1984 ( Fig.101 ) of the air inlet, the outlet of the air filter reaching the duct 1986, which has an outlet for air intake to the engine. Figure 103 to Figure 105 As shown, the air filter 1984 is positioned directly behind the seats 24, 26 so that removal of the protective panel 1990 provides easy access to the air filter 1984, as shown in FIG. Fig.104 Best shown. Fig.101 As best shown, frame 1980 has an inner intake surface 1994 and an outer intake surface 1996 for receiving air therein in the direction of arrows 1998 and 2000. Inner surface 1994 includes a portion 1994a that is at least partially inclined outwardly so that air is received in frame 1980 when the air moves in the direction of arrow 2002.

[0219] like Fig.102 As shown, debris screens 2006a and 2006b may be added to cover inner surface portions 1960a and 1960b, while outer debris screen 2008 may cover outer surface 1962.

[0220] like Figure 103 to Figure 105 As shown, when the removable panel 1990 is positioned above the lower panel portion 2010, the removable panel is shown removed to access the air filter 1984. The removable panel 1990 can have 1 / 4 turn fasteners 2012 for easy removal and installation.

[0221] Reference now Figures 106 to 111 , the construction of the seats 24, 26 will be described in more detail. Fig.106 , the driver's seat 24 will be described, and it should be understood that the passenger seat 26 is substantially identical in construction to the driver's seat 24. The driver's seat 24 includes a shell 2020 to which separate cushion portions are attached. That is, a right shoulder blade portion 2022, a left shoulder blade portion 2024, a lumbar portion 2026, and a seat bottom 2028 are coupled to the shell 2020. A headrest 2030 is also positioned above the shoulder blade portions 2022 and 2024. Now referring to Fig.108, the shell portion 2020 includes a left clip 2040 and a right clip 2042. More specifically, the left clip 2040 includes clips 2040a, 2040b, 2040c, and 2040d. Meanwhile, the clip 2042 includes clips 2042a, 2042b, 2042c, and 2042d. Meanwhile, the rear side of the pad portion 2024 includes buckles 2050a-2050d, each of which is engaged with complementary hooks 2040a-2040d, respectively.

[0222] refer to Fig.109 , the shell portion 2020 includes buckles 2060a and 2060b, which are respectively connected to hooks 2062a and 2062b to retain the waist portion 2026 in the shell 2020. Fig.110 As shown, the shell portion 2020 includes a hook 2070 that receives a buckle 2072 located on the underside of the seat bottom 2028.

[0223] Reference now Fig.111 , shows the structure of the left shoulder blade part 2024, and the figure shows the possible structure of all pad parts 2022-2030. As shown in the figure, the inner frame part represented by 2090 is shown, and the inner frame part carries buckles 2050a-2050d. The frame part 2090 can be a composite of a plastic type material and metal buckles 2050a-2050d, or can be made of materials such as aluminum. A shell part 2094 is provided, thereby providing a window 2096, so that the window 2096a allows the buckle 2050a to pass through it and protrude, the window 2096b allows the buckle 2050b to pass through it and protrude, the window 2096c allows the buckle 2050c to pass through it and protrude, and the window 2096d allows the buckle 2050d to pass through it and protrude. At the same time, the pad part 2098 can be connected to the combination of components 2090, 2094, and provide padding and / or cushioning pads for the seat 24. Rivets 2099 may also be added to enhance retention of pad portions 2022-2030.

[0224] refer to Fig.112 , shows a steering wheel 2100 having modular control buttons 2102 for adding and controlling aftermarket parts. The buttons 2102 are not pre-wired to the steering wheel, but all wiring is through one cable.

[0225] Reference now Fig.113 and Fig.114, the CVT 52 will be described. As shown, the CVT 52 includes a CVT cover, which includes an inner cover 2110 and an outer cover 2112. The inner cover has a plurality of bosses indicated at 2114, and the outer cover 2112 has a plurality of bosses indicated at 2216. Fasteners 2118 couple the inner cover 2110 and the outer cover 2112 at each pair of the paired bosses 2114, 2116, as shown in reference Fig.114 More fully described. Fig.114 As shown, boss 2114 has a mounting face 2120 through which a threaded aperture 2122 extends. Boss 2116 has an inner chamber 2128, an inner shoulder 2130, a mounting face 2132, an outer face 2134, and an aperture 2136. Fastener 2118 has a head portion 2140 having an inner shoulder 2142, a shank portion 2144, a barb 2146, and a threaded portion 2148. Barb 2146 has a leading edge 2150 and a rear shoulder 2152.

[0226] The barb 2146 is contoured to be received within the aperture 2136 and the chamber 2128, but once the barb 2146 passes beyond the aperture 2136, the barb is retained in place because the outer diameter of the barb 2146 is greater than the inner diameter of the aperture 2136. Thus, when the fastener is withdrawn (e.g., Fig.114 21, shoulder 2152 will abut against inner shoulder 2130 of boss 2116. In addition, the profile of the fastener is determined so that it can be completely disengaged from the inner housing 2110 and remain coupled to the outer housing. This is due to the profile of the fastener because the fastener can be moved from the fully engaged position ( Fig.114 The distance X1 between the shoulder 2152 and the inner shoulder 2130 is greater than the distance (X2) that the fastener 2118 needs to travel to be unscrewed from the threaded hole 2122.

[0227] Thus, the design is easy to maintain because the fasteners 2118 always remain coupled to the outer housing 2112, even when they are disconnected from the inner housing 2110. When it is necessary to reattach the outer cover 2112 to the inner housing 2110, each fastener 2118 is already aligned with the corresponding boss 2116 and aperture 2122.

[0228] Although the present invention has been described as having an exemplary design, the present invention may be further modified within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the application is intended to cover any variant, use, or modification of the present invention using the general principles of the present invention. Further, the application is intended to cover deviations from the present disclosure that fall within known or customary practices in the field to which the present invention belongs.

Claims

1. A vehicle comprising: frame; front and rear wheels; A steering assembly, which is both tiltable and telescopic; characterized in that the instrument is connected to the steering assembly so that the instrument tilts with the steering assembly but is fixed on the telescopic axis; a wiring housing, which extends along the steering column, the wiring housing comprising a tubular portion, a cap portion and an inner diameter wall, the inner diameter wall together with the inner diameter of the cap portion defining an annular opening; a steering wheel, which is connected to the steering column; a second housing, which is positioned between the wiring housing and the steering wheel; and wiring, which extends through the wiring housing and the second housing, the ends of the wiring terminating in the steering wheel and being able to at least partially wrap around the steering column in the second housing during rotation of the steering wheel.

2. The vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that The steering assembly includes: a frame portion; a disengagement member, wherein the disengagement member allows the steering column to tilt up and down; the wiring is a spiral wiring, and the spiral wiring can be extended and contracted in the wiring housing for tilting and telescoping, and the steering wheel and the spiral wiring are configured for tension movement, whereby at least a portion of the spiral wiring is sealed in the wiring housing.

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