MODULAR LOADER FRAME STRUCTURE

A modular machine including several removable components which arc structurally interconnected in a manner to result in a rigid unit which is inexpensive to manufacture and easy to service or repair. The modular machine includes as its basic components a base frame assembly an operator's control station, and a cab assembly. The base frame assembly comprises an open frame construction including opposed rectangular end members and opposed hollow rectangular side members. Ground-engaging wheels are mounted to the side members by using a unitized axle assembly including a hub and sprocket which extends into the interior of a side member. A fluid motor is mounted to the inner wall of each side member for driving the ground-engaging wheels connected to that side member. The operator's control station includes a front wall portion and rearwardly extending side wall portions. A generally U-shaped frame extends downwardly from the front and side wall portions for engagement within a complementary cavity formed by stepped inner walls on the side members of the base frame assembly. The cab assembly consists of an operator's seat attached to a box-like frame with the box-like frame being pivotally attached to the operator's control station. The cab assembly may be conveniently removed from the operator's control station or rotated to an out-of-the-way position thereby permitting complete access to the interior of the operator's control station. The base frame assembly, operator's control station and cab assembly may be conveniently disassembled to permit complete access to all parts of the machine for easy servicing, repair or replacement.