Spreader assembly

Abstract

A spreader assembly for spreading materials such as, for example, salt seed or fertilizer. The spreader assembly includes a motor and transmission drive assembly which is mounted outside of the hopper to protect the motor and drive assembly from corrosive materials in the hopper. The transmission motor assembly allows a small motor with high revolutions per minute to be used and still supply the necessary torque needed to properly spread material. The spreader assembly also includes a modular mounting frame system which allows the frame to be mounted to vehicles of different sizes. The frame allows pivoting of the spreader about one axis and latching to a latching bar to secure the spreader assembly in the latched position. Rail mounting brackets are disclosed which permit mounting of the frame to the bed rails of a vehicle without the need to drill holes in to the bed rail. A rub bar is provided to prevent the spreader assembly from being pivoted when the hopper is full of material which could lead to damage to the support frame or vehicle. A unique top is provided to cover the hopper. The top employs the air flow over the top to prevent the top from being blown off of the hopper.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.