Boat Outdrive Trim Tab

Abstract

A trim tab device that serves as a propeller guard for a boat's motor is provided. The trim tab device includes a trim plate having a bracket removably mounted to a boat motor. A hollow cylindrical shell is integrally attached to a base portion of the trim plate. The hollow cylindrical shell defines an inlet opening and an outlet opening. The hollow cylindrical shell is configured to encircle a propeller of the boat motor. The hollow cylindrical shell directs waterflow through the propeller from the inlet opening to the outlet opening. A fin extends outwardly from the hollow cylindrical shell and is configured to securably attach to the boat motor.

I claim: 
     
         1 . A trim tab device that serves as propeller guard for a boat motor, comprising:
 a trim plate having a bracket adapted to removably mount to a boat motor, wherein the trim plate is substantially triangular;   a hollow cylindrical shell integrally attached to a base portion of the trim plate, the hollow cylindrical shell defining an inlet opening and an outlet opening, wherein the hollow cylindrical shell is configured to encircle a propeller of the boat motor; and   a fin extending outwardly from the hollow cylindrical shell, the fin configured to securably attach to the boat motor;   wherein the hollow cylindrical shell is adapted to direct waterflow to the propeller from the inlet opening to the outlet opening.   
     
     
         2 . The trim tab device of  claim 1 , wherein the hollow cylindrical shell comprises steel or aluminum, or a combination thereof. 
     
     
         3 . The trim tab device of  claim 1 , wherein the hollow cylindrical shell directs the waterflow entering the boat motor. 
     
     
         4 . The trim tab device of  claim 1 , wherein the hollow cylindrical shell surrounds the propeller of the boat motor to form a partial barrier. 
     
     
         5 . The trim tab device of  claim 1 , wherein the trim plate is secured to the boat motor via the bracket and one or more fasteners. 
     
     
         6 . The trim tab device of  claim 1 , wherein the hollow cylindrical shell tapers from the inlet opening to the outlet opening forming an arcuate tapered end surface. 
     
     
         7 . The trim tab device of  claim 1 , wherein the fin is on the hollow cylindrical shell opposite the trim plate.