Importance

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Abstract

The present invention provides an improved apparatus for controlling the steering of a watercraft or the like. Specifically, the steering device of the invention includes a push-pull cable steering arrangement which has a portion located along the rear of the watercraft. Such rearward portion is disposed for reciprocal movement within a cylindrical cable guide. The steering device also includes a hydraulic power assist arrangement which includes a hydraulic cylinder having a moveable piston and associated piston rod contained therein. Operator initiated movement of the push-pull cable arrangement is operable to actuate the hydraulic power assist arrangement, thus aiding in steering maneuvers. In order to provide an exceptionally compact arrangement, the cylindrical cable guide of the push-pull cable steering arrangement is disposed inside of the hydraulic cylinder of the hydraulic power assist arrangement. Furthermore, a portion of the push-pull cable arrangement is contained within a hollow inner region provided within the piston rod. According to such construction, the space required for accommodating the stroke of the push-pull cable arrangement is shared with the space required for accommodating the stoke of the piston and associated piston rod during steering operations.

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First Claim