Muncie Power Products, Inc.

Brunswick Corporation

Brian Perry

Thomas W Funk

Roger Merritt

The present invention relates to a power takeoff (PTO) device. More specifically, the present invention relates to a PTO with a novel bolted joint assembly securing the housing of the PTO to a transmission housing, whereby the bolted joint assembly is easier to assemble correctly and more robust than conventional bolted joint assemblies used with conventional PTO housings. The preferred embodiment of the invention comprises elongated fasteners affixing or securing the PTO housing to the transmission housing. Such elongated fasteners provide easier access to the fastener head with standard tools, while providing significantly greater fastener stretch that reduces or prevents vibration loosening of the PTO housing.

Long-bolt power takeoff housing

PTO systems having reduced gear rattle are disclosed. Embodiments include a PTO having an input gear and an intermediate gear engaging the input gear. The intermediate gear rotates about fixed rotational axis. The input gear is attached to the intermediate gear by a support whereby the rotational axis of the input gear is capable of pivoting about the rotational axis of the intermediate gear at a fixed distance, following an arcuate path. The input gear is configured to engage a transmission gear, and biased to pivot toward the transmission gear, thereby reducing or eliminating gear rattle from overly loose engagement between meshing teeth on the intermediate and transmission gears.

Systems and methods for abatement of gear rattle

Rotary encoders for use with trolling motors are disclosed. An example rotary encoder includes a housing defining an aperture and a linear guide and an input sleeve to extend through the aperture. The input sleeve includes an exterior guide to be engaged and followed by a shuttle to enable rotary position information to be obtained from the input sleeve. The shuttle is movably coupled within the linear guide. The shuttle is biased to engage a central portion of the exterior guide if rotation of the input sleeve moves the shuttle past first or second ends of the groove to prevent the rotary encoder from being damaged by over-rotation of the input sleeve.

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Claremore, OK, United States of America

Brian Perry