Abstract: Several embodiments of reference electrode constructions for use in electrically anti-corrosion protection systems for marine outboard drives. In each embodiment the reference electrode is contained within a protective covering with a restricted small volume area surrounding the reference electrode. As a result, when the reference electrode dissolves in the body of water in which it is operating it will form a saturated solution in this small volume area to preclude further dissolution.

Abstract: An improved flow control mechanism for a tilt and trim adjustment systern quickens tilt operation of an associated outboard drive, without sacrificing a desired control when trimming the outboard drive. The flow control mechanism includes a bypass line that interconnects the two sides of a respective tilt and trim cylinder. A bypass valve regulates flow through the bypass line. The bypass valve opens the bypass line when moving the outboard drive within the tilt range to quicken this operation. When moving the outboard drive within the trim range, however, the bypass valve closes the bypass line and connects an up chamber of the cylinder to a suction side of the pump to slow the speed at which the tilt and trim adjustment systern moves the outboard drive within this range of movement. The slower speed by which the systern raises and lowers the outboard drive enhances the ability to control the adjustment of the outboard drive's trim position.

Abstract: An improved flow control mechanism for a tilt and trim adjustment system quickens tilt and trim operations of an associated outboard drive. The flow control mechanism includes a bypass line that interconnects the two sides of a respective tilt and trim cylinder. A bypass valve regulates flow through the bypass line. The bypass valve opens the bypass line when raising the outboard drive to quicken this operation. When lowering the outboard drive, however, the bypass valve closes the bypass line and connects an up chamber of the cylinder to a suction side of the pump to slow the speed at which the tilt and trim adjustment system lowers the outboard drive. The flow control mechanism also inhibits the flow of working fluid through the system when the pump is inactive.

Abstract: This invention primarily relates to an electrical anticorrosion device for a marine propulsion arrangement. More particularly, the invention relates to a cathodic protection arrangement which is suitable for use with an inboard/outboard propulsion unit. According to the invention, an anode and a reference electrode are housed within a housing unit which is mounted upon a propulsion unit mounting bracket. The two electrodes are arranged so that each is essentially equidistant from a point located approximately midway across the lateral width of an outboard drive unit, which unit is secured to the mounting bracket, when the unit is positioned for driving the associated watercraft in a generally forward direction. The electrode housing further serves as a low speed/idle exhaust gas device which breaks up exhaust gas bubbles which otherwise might cause loud and objectionable noise.

Abstract: A conduit arrangement in a hydraulic tilting system for an outboard drive unit wherein a plurality of connecting members are provided, one mounted at the lower end of the gimbal housing and two mounted on the outer periphery of the gimbal housing higher than the upper connecting member but lower than the tilt shaft on the gimbal ring. A pair of inboard conduits extend from a pressure source within the hull of the associated marine vessel to the lower connecting member while two pairs of intermediate conduits interconnect the lower connecting member with a respective one of the upper connecting members. There are two pairs of outboard conduits, each pair interconnecting one of the upper connecting members with a respective one of a pair of fluid motors which extend between the gimbal ring and the outdrive portion of the drive unit for effecting tilting and trimming movement of the outdrive.

Abstract: Two embodiments of hydraulic tilt and trim units that include a manually operable valve for permitting flow between the chambers of the fluid motors so as to facilitate manual adjustment. In one embodiment, the valve is also automatically operable and is connected to the system so that it can relieve pressure in either of the chambers under impact.

Abstract: A rotary switch and mounting arrangement therefore adapted to be detachably mounted on the gimbal housing of an outboard drive unit for controlling its power tilt and trim mechanism.

Abstract: Several embodiments of marine outboard drives having a horizontally disposed input shaft and a vertically disposed drive shaft with a transmission means for driving the drive shaft from the input shaft. In accordance with the invention, the transmission means comprises a selectively operable coupling position rearwardly of the drive shaft so as to not interfere with tilting movement of the outboard drive about a horizontally disposed pivot axis.

Abstract: Several embodiments of outboard drive units of inboard-outboard drives that employ a friction clutch separate from the forward, reverse transmission. In each embodiment, the friction clutch is contained within the outer housing of the outboard drive and is hydraulically actuated by a pump, motor arrangement that is also contained within the outer housing of the outboard drive unit.

Abstract: An outboard motor arrangement and particularly an improved power head construction therefor embodying a hinged cover member that is pivotal to offer access to the engine for servicing without necessitating its removal. In addition, an elastomeric support is provided for the engine that minimizes the transmission of vibrations from the engine to the associated watercraft.

Abstract: An outboard motor arrangement and particularly an improved power head construction therefor embodying a hinged cover member that is pivotal to offer access to the engine for servicing without necessitating its removal. In addition, an elastomeric support is provided for the engine that minimizes the transmission of vibrations from the engine to the associated watercraft.