Abstract

A boat rope controller includes a framework comprising two substantially parallel support arms which are bolted to a mounting bracket secured to the rear transom of a power boat. A reel assembly including a gear is rotatably mounted near the center and between the two support arms and a guide pulley is rotatably mounted near the end of the support arms and aligned with the reel assembly. The gear of the reel assembly is selectively engaged by a ratchet control to allow rope to be fed-out from the reel over the guide pulley or to prevent rope from being fed-out from the reel. A service cover encloses the controller and a crank assembly is inserted through the service cover and one of the support arm to engage and manually rotate the reel assembly. A brake drum is attached to the reel assembly and a brake band is selectively actuated to engage the drum and stop the rotation of the reel assembly. A drag brake is included which progressively activates the reel brake to prevent backlash tangles of the rope on the reel. The crank is locked to the controller by an access lock pin which includes a first eye external to the controller. A mode lock pin is coupled to the ratchet control and includes a second eye external to the controller. A third eye is solidly mounted to the framework and is aligned with the first and second locking eyes. A padlock or pin is inserted through the three eyes to prevent operation of and access to the controller and to deter theft of the controller.

Other References

• E J. Willis, Marine Catalogue for 1940, E. J. Willis Co., New York, N.Y. p. 116