Abstract: A friction steering drive system for electric fishing motors of the type customarily used in trolling. These trolling motors commonly have the motor-propeller assembly supported at the lower end of a motor tube that is held by a swivel bracket secured to the mounting assembly of the boat. To steer the boat, the motor-propeller assembly is turned by actuating a steering drive motor that turns the motor tube through a gear train and a friction drive connection between the steering gear and the motor tube.

Abstract: A steering drive system for electric fishing motors of the type having a motor-propeller assembly supported at the lower end of a motor tube. The motor tube is driven through a friction drive arrangement by a steering gear that is rotated through a gear train by a steering drive motor. To limit the rotation of the steering gear, and thus limit the rotation of the motor-propeller assembly, a limit switch is triggered by a simple actuator driven also by the steering gear. The unique arrangement permits the motor-propeller assembly to be turned through a full range whether in forward or reverse without use of complicated gears, belts or chains.

Abstract: A mounting structure especially for electric outboard trolling motors that allows the motor and its supporting structure to pivot over a wide range if a submerged object is struck by the submerged motor. The mounting structure permits this release regardless of whether the boat is moving forward or in reverse. After the submerged object is passed, the mounting structure will automatically reset itself to the normal operating position.

Abstract: A quick release assembly for electric troller motors of the type having a motor-propeller assembly supported at the lower end of a vertical motor tube and control and starting functions supported on the tube at the upper end. The motor tube is held in a swivel bracket that in turn is operatively connected to the mounting bracket secured to the bow or transom of the boat. A quick release pin provides one pivot for the connection between the swivel bracket and the mounting bracket, while a thrust pin provides the other connection with a moveable retainer plate allowing quick release of the swivel bracket from the mounting bracket after the quick release pivot pin is removed.