Abstract: The release mechanism includes a hollow abutment member fastened to one end of the flexible outer conduit of the cable. The abutment member is mounted for sliding movement in a housing, but is normally prevented from sliding by a stop member associated with the housing for engaging a shoulder on the abutment member. The stop member establishes a reaction surface against which the abutment member and outer conduit bear when the cable is tensioned. An actuating mechanism is provided to selectively move the stop member so that the stop member is out of engagement with the shoulder of the abutment member, for example by a rotary movement, to permit axial movement of the abutment member in the housing when it is desired to release tension in the cable.

Abstract: A self-loading trailer which is operable to launch and load a fixed keel boat includes a frame for hauling and storing the boat, a pivotal boom for swinging the boat between the trailer and the water surface and a winch assembly for pivoting the boom during the launching and loading operations. Also, to increase the counterweight provided by a vehicle, the trailer is provided with an extensible tongue and a counterweight assembly.