This invention provides a framework that allows for tool-free removal and subsequent replacement of conveyor idlers. The opposing framework uprights, which support outboard ends of each idler, respectively, include hinged axle holders/mounts that can be selectively swung into engagement with, and out of engagement with the axle ends. In this manner, the opposing outer idlers can be disengaged from each, respective, outboard axle holder and then slid out of corresponding inboard axle holders, which each define a socket for receiving the inboard axle end. Each hinged, outboard axle holder can be secured in an engaged orientation with the corresponding axle end using a pin, or other fastener that removably interengages with a lower, fixed portion of the outboard upright, where the two members overlap. The central idler is held in place in keyed slots in central uprights. The framework can define an equal troughing, unequal troughing or channel inset troughing framework arrangement.

A conveyor alignment mechanism (10, 100, 200) used to guide conveyor belts (20), and typically but not exclusively, belts of trough conveyors. The conveyor alignment mechanism (10, 100, 200), comprises a mounting frame (12) for operatively mounting the conveyor alignment mechanism (10, 100, 200) to a conveyor frame and a substructure (16, 208) which is pivotably mounted to the mounting frame (12) by means of a main pivot (18). A pair of steering or wing rollers (26) are mounted relative to the substructure (16, 208) in outward-facing cantilevered fashion. Specifically, the alignment mechanism (10, 100, 200) is configured to protrude substantially no further laterally than the mounting frame (12) or the conveyor frame. In a preferred form of the invention the steering or wing rollers (26) are adjustable, with a permissible range of adjustment between about 0 degrees and about 65 degrees.

A lateral guiding device includes a support and an idle guide roller which is able to be mounted in a removable manner on the support between a first part making it possible, in an operational position, to support one end of the axle of the roller at an upper point, and a second part making it possible to support the other end of the axle of the roller at a lower point. The first part of the support is movable between the operational position and a retracted position. The support includes a retaining element which, when the first part is in the retracted position and does not support the roller, has the function of vertically retaining the roller in a removal position in which the second end of the axle of the roller is supported at the lower point by the second part.