Properly Positions, Locks and Automatically Unlocks the Propeller Quickly and Easily Without Leaving the Cockpit!
A locked shaft means reduced drag from spinning propeller
A locked shaft means transmission noise is eliminated
Built for harsh marine environments
By Kenneth R. Nigel | July 28, 2023
In 1978, Dick Badzinski and George Nigel, both sailboat owners, faced a common problem: propellers spinning freely while sailing, causing reduced speed, noise, and drive train wear.
"It was like a dripping faucet which just got on one's nerves." - Kenneth Nigel
Kenneth, working at Rex Chain Belt in Milwaukee, encouraged pursuing the invention for worldwide marketing. They built a working model and secured three patents through a Boston connection, maintaining confidentiality during the patent filing process.
The founders pooled resources for marketing materials and advertising. Their breakthrough came at the Chicago Boat Show with Borg Warner, leading to overwhelmingly positive dealer response and the first Mod I shipments in 1979.
Four decades of marine excellence and innovation
Advanced engineering for marine excellence