Marine stern drive with lubricated and semi-sealed engine output coupler
US5366399A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 13, 1993 |
| Grant date | Nov 22, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 13, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB63H2023/327
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A marine stern drive has an engine output coupler driven to rotate about an axis with a hub that has an axial opening. The forward end of the axial opening is splined and the rearward end is non-splined. The axial opening receives an output driveshaft. The forward end of the driveshaft is splined and engages the splined section of the axial opening so that the engine coupler can rotatably drive the driveshaft. An O-ring seal is provided between the driveshaft and the axial opening in the non-splined section of the axial opening towards the rearward end of the axial opening. An end plug is provided in the forward end of the axial opening for plugging the forward end of the axial opening. A grease passage is provided through the engine coupler to allow grease to be introduced between the seal and the end plug and lubricate the splines. The space between the end plug and the drive plug acts as a grease reservoir. A hole is provided through the end plug to relieve grease pressure and reduce hydraulic lock.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.