Insert for locking mechanism for ground engaging tools

Abstract

The present invention is directed to an insert for use with ground engaging tools. It allows newer-type locking mechanisms to be used to lock wear members to older-styled support structures. The insert is comprised of an elongated body for insertion into a passage in the support structure. At one end is a faceplate for engaging the inner surface of the wear member. At the other end is preferably an attachment means for connecting to corresponding attachments on the inner surface of the opposing leg of the wear member. The faceplate has a recess for receiving the end of a lock pin used to lock the wear member or adapter to the support structure. Alternatively, a lock pin may abut against the rear end of the faceplate.

1 - 12 . (canceled)  
   
   
       13 . A wear member for an excavating bucket or the like comprising a front end, an outer surface, and a rear end having a rearwardly opening cavity for receiving a base fixed to the excavating bucket, the cavity being defined by converging walls converging toward the front end and sidewalls interconnecting the converging walls, and each of the sidewalls including an axially extending dovetail-shaped groove that opens in the rear end of the cavity.  
   
   
       14 . A wear member in accordance with claim  1  further including a passage extending from the outer surface to the cavity for receiving a pin for holding the wear member to the base.  
   
   
       15 . A wear member in accordance with claim  2  wherein the passage opens in one of the grooves.  
   
   
       16 . A wear member in accordance with claim  3  wherein the front end includes a nose for mounting a point.  
   
   
       17 . A wear member in accordance with claim  3  wherein the front end is wearable bit for penetrating the ground.  
   
   
       18 . A wear member in accordance with claim  1  wherein the grooves are in alignment with each other across the cavity.  
   
   
       19 . A wear member in accordance with claim  1  wherein the front end includes a nose for mounting a point.  
   
   
       20 . A wear member in accordance with claim  1  wherein the front end is wearable bit for penetrating the ground.