Tilting system for outboard drive unit

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. Each of the outboard hoses extend downward and outward from its corresponding upper connecting member to its associated fluid motor. The connecting members are situated to be easily accessible by hand for installation and servicing of the conduits, and the outboard conduits are arranged and configured to improve durability and so as not to interfere with other components.