Abstract: The instant invention is a shroud/keel/rudder combination for use on a engine driven marine vessel having a vented tunnel propulsion system. The combination produces acceptable acceleration, minimal loss of speed, resistance to weed entanglement and optimized steering, in both forward and reverse, especially when used with surface piercing propellers.

Abstract: A drop-in-module consisting of a mass produced engine coupled to a drive system by use of a common mid-section mounting platform. The module provides a single assembly that can be easily installed and removed from a vessel. The drive system is based on motors using a vertical crankshaft orientation joined to a 90 degree gearbox with a forward-neutral-reverse transmission. A speed sensitive clutch arrangement separates the engine from the gearbox. The heat created by the air cooled versions of these engines can be vented into the propeller wash through a passage formed in the mounting plate.

Abstract: An improved tunnel configuration for tunnel mounted surface piercing propellers. The improved tunnel configuration provides a flooding suction to the tunnel to allow flooded propeller operation at speeds below planning. The tunnel is stepped whereby an upper portion of the tunnel is sized to allow the propeller to draw air at high speeds. The lower portion of the tunnel is sized to allow the propeller to be flooded resulting in smooth acceleration, improved handling in forward and reverse and a reduction of the transition period.

Abstract: A drop in-module consisting of a mass produced engine coupled to a drive system by use of a common mid-section mounting platform. The module provides a single assembly that can be easily installed and removed from a vessel. The drive system is based on motors using a vertical crankshaft orientation joined to a 90 degree gearbox with a forward-neutral-reverse transmission. A speed sensitive clutch arrangement separates the engine from the gearbox. The heat created by the air cooled versions of these engines can be vented into the propeller wash through a passage formed in the mounting plate.

Abstract: An improved tunnel configuration for tunnel mounted surface piercing propellers. The improved tunnel configuration provides a flooding suction to the tunnel to allow flooded propeller operation at speeds below planning. The tunnel is stepped whereby an upper portion of the tunnel is sized to allow the propeller to draw air at high speeds. The lower portion of the tunnel is sized to allow the propeller to be flooded resulting in smooth acceleration, improved handling in forward and reverse and a reduction of the transition period.

Abstract: The instant invention is a shroud/keel/rudder combination for use on a engine driven marine vessel having a vented tunnel propulsion system. The combination produces acceptable acceleration, minimal loss of speed, resistance to weed entanglement and optimized steering, in both forward and reverse, especially when used with surface piercing propellers.

Abstract: A marine drive and a marine vessel and drive combination have a trim tab with a forward end pivotally mounted to a marine propulsion device.

Abstract: A spa apparatus includes a basin for retaining fluid, a removable foot rest plate positioned within the basin, an impeller, and a motor coupled to the impeller to create a high pressure zone in the basin underneath the foot rest plate. The foot rest plate may be made of a plastic material. A seal is provided between the foot rest plate and the basin such that the seal is maintained even if the foot rest plate is deflected or distorted by the water pressure underneath it.

Abstract: A spa apparatus and method for cleaning the same are disclosed. The spa apparatus includes a basin for retaining fluid, a removable foot rest plate positioned within the basin, an impeller coupled to the basin, and a motor drivably coupled to the impeller.

Abstract: A rudder for a water craft is constructed to automatically compensate for impact on the rudder while the craft is maneuvering. The lower portion of the rudder is mounted to an upper portion by a pin. The lower portion can pivot about the pin to reduce drag and draft. The lower portion is spring loaded to return to the original position after impact.

Abstract: A rudder for a water craft is constructed to automatically compensate for impact on the rudder while the craft is maneuvering. The lower portion of the rudder is mounted to an upper portion by a pin. The lower portion can pivot about the pin to reduce drag and draft. The lower portion is spring loaded to return to the original position after impact.

Abstract: A marine propeller with increased performance in reverse has a hub and a multiplicity of blades extending radially outward. A portion of the trailing edges of some or all of the blades are modified to lessen interference between blades and increase the bite of those blades when operated in reverse.

Abstract: The instant invention is an improved method for handling and steering vessels and the apparatus for carrying out the method. The invention relates to vessels having fixed shaft propulsion systems and particularly to those vessels in which the propeller is positioned within a tunnel beneath the vessel. The improvements in the steering and handling of such a vessel are realized by inclusion of a bow propulsion system which is integral with and whose operation is coordination with that of the main propulsion system.