Shielded tilt-trim subsystem for boats using a stern drive system

A tilt-trim subsystem assembly affixed to an outdrive of a stern drive supported by a gimbal unit and configured to rotate about a predetermined axis to impart a desired trim or tilt to the drive system, the tilt-trim assembly having one respective end thereof configured to pivotally receive one anchor pin supported by the outdrive, the assembly including:

• at least one cylinder having one end thereof pivotally connected to another anchor pin such that when the at least one cylinder is actuated, the outdrive and the tilt-trim subsystem assembly are jointly rotated about the predetermined axis;
• a hydraulic circuit for actuating the at least one cylinder therein;
• a housing having a lower end;
• and
• a base for receiving the housing, wherein the base is sealingly connected to a flange extending at the lower end of the housing to prevent entry of moisture therethrough.

A stern drive system having an outdrive generally disposed downstream relative to water flow aft a transom of a boat, the outdrive configured to be rotated about a generally horizontal axis to impart a desired trim or tilt to the drive system comprising:

• a gimbal unit configured to pivotally receive a first anchor pin;
• a tilt-trim assembly affixed to the outdrive, the tilt-trim assembly having one respective end thereof configured to pivotally receive a second anchor pin supported by the outdrive, the assembly including at least one cylinder having one end thereof connected to the first anchor pin so that when the at least one cylinder is actuated, the outdrive and the tilt-trim assembly are rotated about the generally horizontal axis, the assembly further including a circuit coupled to actuate the at least one cylinder therein;
• and
• a housing configured to shield the tilt-trim assembly, the outdrive configured within a footprint of the housing to avoid resistance to water flow.

A method of shielding a tilt-trim assembly of an outdrive the method comprising the steps of:

• positioning the tilt-trim assembly within a footprint of a base of an outdrive;
• forming a housing to include a semi-circular configuration with an inwardly directed flange at a lower end of the semi-circular configuration;
• and
• connecting the flange of the housing to the base of the outdrive thereby enclosing the outdrive within the housing.