Abstract: A block structure of a generally trapezoidal configuration is interposed between a cavitation plate and propeller of a marine engine's lower unit to effect abutment of the propeller permitting loosening and removal of the associated propeller retaining nut member.

Abstract: A retrofit generator housing is arranged for mounting to an outboard drive housing to regenerate electrical energy into a battery of the associated outboard motor, with the generator housing arranged for fixed mounting to an end wall of the drive housing of the outboard motor in a coaxially aligned relationship.

Abstract: An auger-driven remotely controllable amphibious vehicle is disclosed. The vehicle includes a buoyant hull in the general configuration of a speedboat. An auger is mounted for rotation along each side of the vehicle. The generally cylindrical augers with helical screws are nested closely in approximately quarter-cylinder recesses formed along the lower sides of the hull at the waterline so that a considerable portion of the water moved by the augers is contained in the narrow spaces between the augers and the hull, and is then thrust directly rearward (or forward) for increased efficiency in propulsion. A propulsion mechanism and other components are preferably mounted in the center of the vehicle for balance. The vehicle preferably includes control apparatus and signal receiving apparatus for remote operation.

Abstract: An outboard motor comprising a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on a boat for pivotal movement relative thereto about a generally horizontal axis, the propulsion unit including a propeller shaft, and an engine drivingly connected to the propeller shaft, and the outboard motor further comprising structure for pivoting the propulsion unit about the generally horizontal axis, the pivoting structure being adapted to be mounted outside the boat, and the pivoting structure comprising a housing having an interior and an exterior, an electric motor in the interior, and a first quick-disconnect connector portion which is electrically connected to the motor and which is accessible from the exterior of the housing for selective mating with another quick-disconnect connector portion.

Abstract: A non-linear propulsion and energy conversion system, in one embodiment, includes an impulse drive having a frame with inner and outer pairs of driving members movable relative to the frame. Guides in the form of rails are provided for supporting the driving members so that they move along a path confined by the rails when kinetic energy is provided thereto. Solenoid switches are located at each end of the frame and are operable to cause the outer driving members to move linearly along the rails in opposite directions towards each other. At least one of the inner members has a pair of rotatable discs mounted thereon which rotate upon interaction with one of the outer members. The other inner member interacts with the other outer member in a manner so that it transmutes a greater portion of the translational kinetic energy and linear momentum applied thereto by the outer member into linear motion.

Abstract: A flushing device for supplying water to the cooling intake port of an inboard motor boat propulsion unit when the boat is out of the water and which has a suction cup adapted to cover the intake port and supported from the ground by a telescoping handle and provides a hose bib in communication with a garden hose.

Abstract: An adaptor directs water into the engine of a stern drive boat which has the outdrive removed therefrom. The adaptor comprises a support plate having a first side, a second side, and at least one aperture extending therethrough. A body member has a central bore and a first end portion connected to the support plate. The central bore of the body member is in alignment with the aperture, which is in alignment with a cooling orifice of the engine. The adaptor further comprises a connector for attaching a fluid conduit such as a hose to the body member at a second end portion and a spacer to assist in the connection of the support plate to the gimbal housing. Water which passes through the fluid conduit also passes through the central bore of the body member, the support plate aperture, the cooling orifice and into the engine for cooling or flushing thereof.

Abstract: A cooling system is provided for enclosed first and second heat sources including an enclosure substantially enclosing the heat sources. The first and second heat sources are positioned in the enclosure. A heat exchanger, also positioned within the enclosure, is connected through the enclosure to an external source of cooling fluid and is adapted for cooling air within the enclosure. The heat exchanger has a first surface for receiving the air to be cooled and a second surface for expelling cooled air. First and second air circulation means are provided within the enclosure for circulating air past both the first and second heat sources and the heat exchanger. A first baffle portion separates the first and second heat sources and extends to the first surface of the heat exchanger, and a second baffle portion extends to the second surface of the heat exchanger.

Abstract: An ocean-going vessel comprises a stern power plant and side propulsion units attached to the starboard side and to the port side of the ocean-going vessel. Each side propulsion unit comprises two combined propulsion systems having tubular propellers and magnetohydrodynamic drives. The front and rear combined propulsion systems or the starboard side and the port side are united by a tube. Side propulsion units are adapted to provide additional thrust and maneuverability to the ocean-going vessel. Side propulsion units are adapted to provide braking actions by reversing combined propulsion systems.

Abstract: A relatively small and light weight personal watercraft includes a driveshaft tunnel which permits the driveshaft housing of a string trimmer apparatus to be installed therein. The string trimmer apparatus is modified by removing the string trimmer or other head which may be attached, installing a propeller(s) or impeller(s), removing any handles from the string trimmer, temporarily removing the power head so that driveshaft housing may be installed within the driveshaft tunnel of the watercraft, installing a fairing (if desired) and/or handlebars, and reattaching the throttle control to the handlebars. The modified string timmer may be used as both a power system for the watercraft and also provides directional control by turning the attached handlebars or fairing in order to rotate the power system about an axis concentric with the driveshaft and thereby change the direction of the thrust line of the propeller(s) or impeller(s).

Abstract: A drainable protective boat motor bag apparatus including a boot defining a bag for fitting over the propeller and stem of an outdrive of a motor mounted on the stern of a boat. The bag includes a channel extending from the mouth thereof to the closed end of the bag for receipt of an open ended hose such that, once the bag has been positioned over the stem, a hose may be inserted for pumping of residual from such bag. A tie string may be incorporated around the mouth of the bag for tying it to the stem and, if desirable, a separate protective sack may be included for covering the propeller blades to protect them from direct exposure to the bag itself.

Abstract: A corrosion reducer for use with ships having a hull, a propeller mounted a propeller shaft and extending through the hull, bearings supporting the shaft, at least one thrust bearing and one seal. The improvement includes a current collector and a current reduction assembly for reducing the voltage between the hull and shaft in order to reduce corrosion due to electrolytic action. The current reduction assembly includes an electrical contact, the current collector, and the hull. The current reduction assembly further includes a device for sensing and measuring the voltage between the hull and the shaft and a device for applying a reverse voltage between the hull and the shaft so that the resulting voltage differential is from 0 to 0.05 volts. The current reduction assembly further includes a differential amplifier having a voltage differential between the hull and the shaft.

Abstract: A skimmer craft for removal of a layer of oil or other floating pollutants from the surface of a body of water including a pair of spaced-apart pontoons with a horizontal floor plate extending between the pontoons. A sump box is positioned at the rear of the skimmer plate or floor and defines a fixed water exit with the sump. The floor and sump are vertically adjustable as a unit. The sump box has a horizontally-extending weir through which oil may enter into the sump. The sump includes a comminutor unit which will reduce and break-up agglomerations in the oil. Propulsion units are positioned along the sides of the pontoons and at the bow and stern of the vessel at predetermined locations. The propulsion units may be selectively operated to establish a controlled flow pattern to direct water and the associated oil layer into the floatation pool where the oil layer is skimmed off and directed into the sump. The propulsion units are also operable to pilot the craft.

Abstract: An outboard motor support for supporting and cushioning the lower unit of an outboard motor when the boat carrying the outboard motor is being trailered. The outboard motor support is characterized by an elongated, tubular outside support fitted with a V-shaped foot-engaging member at one end for engaging the foot of the outboard motor and a telescoping support at the opposite end, which telescoping support terminates in a yoke for adjustably engaging the frame of the trailer. The telescoping support is spring-loaded in the outside support and a rubber shock absorber is provided in the outside support near the foot-engaging member, in order to cushion the outboard motor foot against road shock.

Abstract: A cooling system is provided for an enclosed heat source including an enclosure substantially enclosing the heat source. The heat source is positioned in the enclosure. A heat exchanger, also positioned within the enclosure, is connected through the enclosure to an external source of cooling fluid and is adapted for cooling air within the enclosure. Air circulation means are provided within the enclosure for circulating air past both the heat source and the heat exchanger. A method of cooling an air cooled heat source within an enclosure is also provided.

Abstract: A marine propulsion system of the type having a sacrificial anode for corrosion protection of the casing includes structure whereby the propeller is electrically insulated from the casing and the sacrificial anode. The structure includes spacers made of insulating materials, spacers having insulating coatings, or insulating coatings on the surfaces of the propeller or the propeller shaft. Electrical insulation of the propeller prevents unsightly and efficiency-reducing depositions on the propeller surfaces and reduces the required size of the anode.

Abstract: A marine installation including a transom fabricated of a first metal and including a forward surface, a rearward surface, and a mounting opening extending between the surfaces, and a marine propulsion device including a transom bracket fabricated of a second metal less noble than the first metal, and a mechanism for detachably mounting the transom bracket on the transom and for simultaneously electrically insulating the transom bracket from the transom, which mechanism includes a sleeve fabricated of electrically insulating material and engaged in the mounting opening and having therein a bore, a sheet fabricated of electrically insulating material and engaged with the rearward surface and with the sleeve and having therein an opening in registry with the bore, a washer fabricated of electrically insulating material and engaged with the forward surface and with the sleeve and having therein an aperture in registry with the bore, and a bolt having a head engaging the washer, extending through the aperture, th

Abstract: A replaceable skeg for a marine propulsion device is provided and includes a tapered dovetail tongue and groove joint between top of the skeg and lower portion of a gear case housing on the marine propulsion device. When the skeg is hit by an underwater obstruction it will fracture at the joint and break away, leaving the lower portion of the gear case housing intact and undamaged in which another skeg can be installed thereto.

Abstract: An arrangement for insuring that an internal combustion engine of an outboard motor will operate efficiently under all trim adjusted conditions of the outboard motor. The trim angle is sensed and an engine system such as the timing is adjusted to provide good running in response to the trim condition. Additionally, an embodiment is disclosed wherein the ignition timing is also adjusted during initial starting so as to provide adjustment of the ignition in response to both the starting condition and the trim condition.

Abstract: A shroud for a marine propulsion system includes a waterproof shroud body fastenable to the transom of a boat to surround the outboard portion of the propulsion system. Locking and sealing mechanisms secure the shroud to the boat transom in water-tight engagement and a submersible pump is operable to remove water from the shroud body so that the porpulsion system is effectively in dry dock.

Abstract: An outboard motor signal made up of a plate-like member bent at right angles at one end as a support and bent at 30 degrees at the other end, whereby the other end is disposed substantially vertical when the outboard motor is in position for transportation, thereby improving the visibility of the signal. A U-shaped spring is provided to hold the plate-like member in place on the motor and reflective tape is disposed on the outside of the plate-like member.

Abstract: A kit for converting a Weedwacker into an outboard engine and a method of using the kit includes the steps of rotating the tubular housing of the Weedwacker through one hundred eighty degrees, replacing the grass cutting device with a propeller, replacing the muffler of the Weedwacker with an elongate exhaust tube, clamping the exhaust tube to the tubular housing, and mounting a swivel support bracket to the tubular housing.

Abstract: An outboard motor flushing apparatus includes a plurality of opposed flushing heads for securement adjacent an outboard motor lower assembly for receiving fresh water therewithin through the flushing head and associated flexible conduit.

Abstract: A propulsion unit comprises an elongated chamber having a front closed end and a rear open end with a side opening having a decreasing cross section inwardly of the chamber and directing incoming fluid tangentially of curved internal chamber walls for imparting a spin motion to such fluid for immediately redirecting fluid motion into an inwardly spiraling and longitudinally spreading flow outwardly of the open chamber end to propel the chamber forwardly. The unit operates with random wave motion as well as with expanding gases from a combustion chamber.

Abstract: A marine propulsion device comprising a gear housing adapted to be mounted on the transom of a boat, a bearing housing supported by the gear housing, a bearing mechanism supported by the bearing housing, a propeller shaft supported by the bearing mechanism and adapted to have mounted thereon a propeller, a sacrificial anode, and a mechanism for securing the anode to the bearing housing.

Abstract: A support device maintains an outboard unit of a boat engine in a tilted position for travel. The outboard unit has a stationary drive shaft housing attached to the boat transom and a movable propeller drive unit pivotally attached with respect to the stationary drive shaft housing. A trim mechanism includes a cylinder, a hydraulically operated piston and an actuator rod engaged between the movable propeller drive unit and the stationary drive shaft housing for tilting the movable propeller drive unit to a desired angle between a lowered position and a raised position. The support device has an elongated rigid casing with a radial slot extending along the entire longitudinal length of the casing and a semi-rigid lining disposed within the casing forming a longitudinal aperture comunicating with the radial slot through the casing.

Abstract: A sacrificial anode (19, 47, 55, 61) is disposed in association with the trim cylinder unit (12) of a marine propulsion device and is positioned in the previously unused area between the aft cylinder (13) end and the rodeye (16) or the like on the piston rod (15) end. More specifically, the anode is in the form of an elongated generally cylindrical member of a diameter approximating that of the trim cylinder to provide improved mass characteristics, and is deeply grooved (21) to thus provide ribs (22) which enhance the working surface area. The anode may be attached to an extended pilot member (23, 45) which is suitably secured within the aft end of the trim cylinder. It is contemplated that a cover (35) may be utilized in conjunction with the anode to improve the aesthetic appearance of the affected area, while permitting water flow through the anode. In one embodiment, a unitary anode (19) is provided with a radial slot (33), which permits the anode to be positioned over the trim cylinder rod (15).

Abstract: A flexible cylindrical boot with a plastic reinforced opening containing multiple nylon rivets for connection to one or more nylon cords is mounted around the shaft of a small outboard motor. A telescopic handle attached to the reinforced opening guides the boot around the motor shaft after a garden hose is attached to a connector integral with a bottom of the boot. Fresh water from a faucet fills the boot and the motor is run in an idle condition to permit salt water flushing of the coolant system. The brackish water is then siphoned from the boot for dry storage of the motor in an upright position attached to the transom or lazarette of a boat.

Abstract: Contained within a splash water impervious housing and secured to a shock-mounted equipment support plate are an internal combustion engine, a water pump and a generator, each with a vertically-oriented shaft. Also disposed on the support plate immediately adjacent the engine's exhaust manifold is a water-cooled muffler. Combustion air for the engine and cooling air for the generator is drawn into the housing through a labyrinthian passage, which is effective to block the entry of splash water into the enclosure defined by the housing. The water pump and generator are driven by the engine with the water pump delivering cooling water to the engine's oil pan and cylinder block as well as to the muffler. The heated water is then discharged with the engine's exhaust through the muffler.

Abstract: A stabilizing device for an outboard marine motor includes a plate having two spaced apart arms which are adapted to be connected to opposite sides of the powerhead of the motor and adapted to be connected to the steering arm of the motor at the end of the plate generally opposite to the location of the connection of the arms to the motor.

Abstract: A technique for lubricating a standard outboard motor steering mechanism comprises removing and discarding the conventional nut captivating the motor tilt tube to the motor brackets. A hole is drilled through the tilt tube. The conventional nut is replaced with a nut having a radial threaded passage through which lubricant is added to the interior of the tilt tube where the steering mechanism is located. The nut of this invention includes an interior groove so the tilt tube hole and radial passage do not have to be radially aligned. In another embodiment, a similar looking arrangement is incorporated into one of the motor brackets through which the tilt tube extends.

Abstract: The invention provides means to enable the propeller of a power driven watercraft to be viewed and cleared of any fouling material by access from the interior of the craft; suitably the propeller is viewed through and access is gained by means of a pierceable transparent diaphragm (7) set in a tube (2) which is inserted through and sealably attached to an aperture formed in the hull (1) of the craft immediately above the propeller.

Abstract: Several embodiments of marine outboard drives including depth finders attached as a unit to the outboard drive. In each embodiment, the depth finder includes a transmitter/receiver that is carried by the lower unit in proximity to and beneath a cavitation plate for protection from underwater objects and for facilitating removal. The outboard drive is pivotally supported by a hollow steering shaft and a conductor extends through the hollow steering shaft for transmitting signals from the transmitter/receiver to a display that is mounted on the outer cowling. In some embodiments, the display is mounted on the front of the outer cowling and on others is pivotally supported on the top of the outer cowling. In all embodiments, the display is resiliently supported.

Abstract: A pressure actuated drain valve for automatically draining the cooling water from a marine drive engine when the engine is stopped. The drain valve includes a spring-loaded diaphragm which moves to a closed position when the engine water pump is operating to close an outlet from the engine cavities to be drained. The diaphragm automatically moves to its open position when the engine water pump is off to open the outlet to allow cooling water to drain from the engine cavities.

Abstract: An anti-theft device for a marine drive unit includes a cupped member for location around a threaded fastener which secures the drive unit in place so as to enable a blocking device to be secured in position to block access to the threaded fastener and thereby preclude unauthorized removal of the threaded fastener and the drive unit, the cupped member having outer surfaces lying in mutually perpendicular planes forming a corner complementary to a corner of the drive unit to preclude rotation of the cupped member when seated in the corner of the drive unit in order further to prevent unauthorized rotation of the threaded fastener.

Abstract: An assembly is provided for mounting a sonar depth sounder transducer on an electric trolling motor such that the transducer is protected from entaglement with vegetation and from being knocked out of a predetermined orientation relative to the boat. The conventional bearing cap connected to the nose of a trolling motor is replaced by a bearing cap having a sonar tranducer integrally mounted therein such that the power cable, extending from the depth sounder in the boat to the transducer, is routed through the inside of the trolling motor housing and through the hollow tubular trolling motor support shaft. A power cable guide is mounted inside the trolling motor housing and is supported by a guide ring for positioning the power cable along a path preventing engagement with the armature, rotor and other moving parts in the trolling motor.

Abstract: A marine propulsion installation for use on a boat having an exterior and an interior, the marine propulsion installation comprising an engine, and a rotatably mounted propeller driven by the engine, a source of fuel adapted to be located interiorly of the boat, a supply conduit communicating between the source of fuel and the engine, and a fuel impermeable housing conduit sealingly connected to the source of fuel and surrounding the portion of the supply conduit located interiorly of the boat.

Abstract: An apparatus for covering a stern drive aperture in the hull of a boat. It comprises a planar plate having a plurality of arm members projecting outwardly from its sides. It further has a hole completely through the surface of the plate which is encircled by the mouth of a hollow vessel. The apparatus is useful in protecting the exposed parts of a boat engine when the external drive mechanism is removed for storage or shipment.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing the separable drive transfer and propeller shaft housing from the outdrive housing which is mounted to project rearwardly from the lower end of the stern of a boat, under a swimmer's boarding platform projecting rearwardly from the stern. The drive transfer and propeller shaft housing is decoupled from the outdrive housing after a front to rear extending track, clamped to the platform, has its wheeled trolley with a dependent hanger moved along the track under the platform, and the hanger is coupled to the drive transfer and propeller shaft housing. The trolley, with its suspended drive transfer and propeller shaft housing, is then moved rearwardly along the track to an accessible position for work thereon. Thereafter, the drive transfer and propeller shaft housing is moved forwardly along the track under the platform to a position of adjacency with the out drive housing and recoupled with it.

Abstract: A stop device for application to an outboard marine engine to retain the propeller against rotation while the prop nut is being tightened or loosened. The device is T-shaped and includes side wings and a vertical leg. The wings have slots which permit the device to be slipped onto a tail plate located above the propeller. The leg extends downwardly between the blades of the propeller and engages the blades to prevent propeller rotation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for converting a gasoline motor powered line trimmer into an outboard trolling motor. The method includes the removal of the trimmer line spool head from the lower end of the trimmer and the replacement of the head with a marine propeller, the removal of the usual handle from the upper end portion of the housing of the trimmer and the replacement of that handle with a conventional trolling motor transom mount and the addition of a clamp mounting steering arm to the upper end portion of the housing of the trimmer and the relocation of the throttle control assembly of the trimmer from the upper end portion of the trimmer housing to the free end of the steering arm.

Abstract: A cover is designed for the majority of MerCrusier inboard/outboard motor bell housings which is conveniently attached using the existing studs exposed when the lower unit is removed. The non weather-proof parts being exposed when the lower unit is removed are thereby protected while in dry dock or when the boat is returned to the water without the lower unit.

Abstract: A marine propulsion unit having a housing exposed to sea water and subject to attack by the sea water is provided with a permanent type anode housing substantially constant surface characteristics mounted on the housing and supplied with constant voltage. Holes under the anode through the housing to interior passages permits the current on the anode to influence and protect the passages.

Abstract: A flushing device (15) for supplying water to the cooling water inlets (14) of an outboard motor (10) uses a connecting pin (18) extending through the inlets (14) to attach a pair of sealing cups (16 and 17) over the inlets (14). A sliding spring latch (19) releasably attaches one of the cups (17) to the connecting pin (18). A hose connection (25) allows water to be supplied to the inlets (14) through the cup (16).

Abstract: A substantially level tray-like barrier is suspended from the stern of a motorboat somewhat above water level and below the frame of an outboard motor to intercept tools or engine parts which may be dropped by a mechanic working on the engine from a position in the stern of the boat to thereby prevent loss of expensive tools and parts in the water. The flexible barrier body of the device adjusts snugly around the outboard motor frame regardless of the size of the motor.

Abstract: A motor securing device for watercraft such as inflatable boats and rafts and the like including generally downwardly open securing portion which may be defined by a pair of parallel walls and a connecting wall. A motor attachment portion projects generally upwardly from a rear portion of the securing section. A battery-securing shelf extends forwardly from the securing portion. Securing a motor to the upwardly projecting wall and a battery positioned on the supporting shelf provide a counterbalancing action. Retaining structures may be provided to resist undesired displacement of the battery or motor securing clamp.

Abstract: A tabular iceberg is used as an energy source for a propulsion system which propels the iceberg across vast distances of the ocean with minimal fuel consumption. The iceberg thus becomes, in effect, a self-propelled vessel in which potential energy associated with the iceberg is converted to kinetic energy to power the propulsion system. Two propulsion mechanisms can be used, preferably in conjunction. The first mechanism uses the gravity flow of melting ice to provide propulsive thrust, while the second mechanism utilizes the temperature differential between the iceberg and the surrounding water to power a heat cycle engine, which, in turn, drives a generator to provide electricity which runs propeller drive motors.

Abstract: A device is provided for use in conjunction with a marine vessel having an engine, a transmission connected to the engine and having a portion extending exteriorly of the boat and an out drive which is connected to the exteriorly extending portion of the transmission by removable fasteners. The device of the present invention prevents the unauthorized removal of the out drive from the transmission. The instant device comprises a housing having a top wall, a back wall and opposing side walls which extend downwardly from the top wall and on opposite sides thereof. The top wall of the housing includes a slot through which the mooring eye on the out drive is positioned and, in doing so, the threaded fasteners which connect the out drive to the transmission are inaccessibly positioned between the housing side walls. The housing itself is removably secured to the out drive by a padlock having its bolt extending through the mooring eye in order to permit removal of the out drive only by authorized personnel.

Abstract: An outboard motor propulsion unit which is manufactured and sold without a clutch is provided thereafter with a clutch, as follows. The spring connecting the propeller to the output shaft is removed. Interengageable clutch members are fitted to the thrust bearing and to the hub of the propeller. A spring is fitted to the output shaft so as to urge the propeller along the shaft to effect driving engagement of the clutch members, and a manual control member is provided for effecting disengagement of the clutch.

Abstract: A guard for protecting a boat transom from being marred by a marine motor mounted on the transom, comprising a generally U-shaped marine motor mounting protector, adapted to be mounted on the transom, including a base and a pair of legs mounted on the base for extending along the sides of the transom to provide a barrier between the transom and any motor to be mounted on the transom.