Abstract:
An attractive wake tower assembly of a unique, generally U-Shaped configuration that can be readily pivotally mounted on powerboats of various constructions to enable the wake tower assembly to be pivoted from an upstanding to a lowered position. The wake tower assembly is of a high-strength, simple construction that does not interfere with the visibility of the boat operator. Each of the side members of the assembly has an upper portion and a lower portion, each of which is generally oval in cross section. The lower portion of each of the side members have a first width and the upper portion of each of the side members have a first width; and a bight portion interconnecting the upper portions of the sides, the bight portion being generally circular in cross section.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   This is a Continuation-In-Part of Application U.S. Ser. No. 10/751,218 filed Dec. 31, 2003 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,986,321 which is a Continuation-In-Part of Application U.S. Ser. No. 10/401,644 filed Mar. 27, 2003 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,792,888. 

   FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
   The present invention relates generally to water sports such as wakeboarding. More particularly, the invention concerns a wake tower of novel construction for use with powerboats for towing a performer behind the boat using a tow rope that is connected to the wake tower. 
   DISCUSSION OF THE PRIOR ART 
   In recent years the sport of wakeboarding has become very popular. As the name implies, the wake boarder intentionally rides the wake of the boat and prefers to have as large a wake as possible generated behind the boat. Experience has shown that, to take full advantage of the wake generated by the boat, it is preferable to anchor the towline used to tow the wake boarder at a relatively high elevation above the deck of the boat. Accordingly, a large number of elevated wake towers of various constructions have been suggested in the past. 
   Typically, the prior art wake towers comprise a rather large and somewhat elaborate framework that is affixed to the boat deck. Such prior art wake towers are heavy and generally quite cumbersome to install and remove from the boat. Further, such towers may interfere with the boat&#39;s passage beneath bridges and other types of overpasses. Additionally, because of the complexity of the framework of several of the prior art wake towers, visibility of the operator of the boat can be impaired. Exemplary of prior art wake towers are those illustrated and described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,979,350 issued to Larson, et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 6,193,819 issued to Larson, et al. 
   To accommodate the overhead clearance problem, certain of the prior art wake tower structures can be dismantled if necessary. However, such prior art structures often have questionable structural stability when erected and can present substantial safety hazards after being disassembled. For example, after the wake tower structures have been disassembled they can present a substantial tripping hazard to passengers on the boat especially when the boat is being rocked by waves. Further, in their dismantled configuration, the wake tower structures typically undesirably reduce the usable space on the boat deck. 
   Another approach to accommodating overhead clearance problems has been to construct a wake tower assembly that is pivotally interconnected with the boat so that the wake tower can be moved from an elevated position to a lowered position. Exemplary of this prior art approach is a wake tower assembly sold by the Titan Company of Rancho Cordova, Calif. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   By way of summary, one form of the wake tower assembly of the present invention comprises a first base member that can be connected to the gunwale on one side of a power boat; a second base member that can be connected to the gunwale on the opposite side to of a power boat; a generally U-shaped, structural member having a first curved side connected to the first base member and a second curved side connected to the second base member, each of the sides having an upper portion and a lower portion, each of which is generally oval in cross section; the lower portion of each of the sides having a first width and the upper portion of each of the sides having a second width less than the first width; and a bight portion interconnecting the upper portions of the sides, the bight portion being generally circular in cross section. In one form of the invention, the U-shaped structural member can be pivoted downwardly toward the bow of the powerboat and in another form of the invention the U-shaped structural member can be pivoted downwardly toward the stern of the boat. 
   With the foregoing summary in mind, it is an object of the present invention to provide a highly attractive wake tower assembly of a unique, generally U-shaped configuration that can be readily mounted on powerboats of various constructions. 
   Another object of the invention is to provide a wake tower assembly of the aforementioned character that includes a novel counter-balancing means for yieldably resisting movement of the structural assembly toward its lowered, stowed position and for assisting in the return of the structural assembly to its upright starting position. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       FIG. 1  is a generally perspective view of one form of the wake tower of the present invention shown affixed to the gunwales of a powerboat. 
       FIG. 2  is a top view, partly in cross section, illustrating one form of the method of the invention for making the wake tower. 
       FIG. 3  is a side-elevational view, partly in cross section further illustrating the method of the invention for making the wake tower. 
       FIG. 4  is a side-elevational view, partly broken away to show internal construction, of the form of the wake tower shown in  FIG. 1 . 
       FIG. 5  is a view taken along lines  5 — 5  of  FIG. 4 . 
       FIG. 6  is a greatly enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  6 — 6  of  FIG. 5 . 
       FIG. 7  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  7 — 7  of  FIG. 6 . 
       FIG. 8  is in enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  8 — 8  of  FIG. 6 . 
       FIG. 9  is in enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  9 — 9  of  FIG. 6 . 
       FIG. 10  is a generally perspective, exploded view of one of the base members and one of the connecting segments of the wake tower of the invention. 
       FIG. 11  is a fragmentary, cross-sectional view of the lower portion of one side of the wake tower of the invention illustrating the manner in which the wake tower pivots relative to the base member. 
       FIG. 12  is a generally perspective view of an alternate form of wake tower of the present invention shown mounted on the gunwales of a powerboat. 
       FIG. 13  is a side-elevational view illustrating the manner of making one of the side members of the wake tower shown in  FIG. 12 . 
       FIG. 14  is a side-elevational view of the wake tower of the alternate form of the invention shown in  FIG. 12 . 
       FIG. 15  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  15 — 15  of  FIG. 14 . 
       FIG. 16  is a view taken along lines  16 — 16  of  FIG. 14 . 
       FIG. 17  is a greatly enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  17 — 17  of  FIG. 16 . 
       FIG. 18  is a cross-sectional view taken along lines  18 — 18  of  FIG. 17 . 
       FIG. 19  is a cross-sectional view taken along lines  19 — 19  of  FIG. 17 . 
       FIG. 20  is a cross-sectional view taken along lines  20 — 20  of  FIG. 17 . 
       FIG. 21  is a fragmentary, cross-sectional view similar to  FIG. 17 , but illustrating the rearward pivotal moment of the wake tower of the alternate form of the invention. 
       FIG. 22  is a side-elevational view of still another form of the wake tower of the invention that is cast from a metal such as aluminum. 
       FIG. 23  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  23 — 23  of  FIG. 22 . 
       FIG. 24  is a cross-sectional view taken along lines  24 — 24  of  FIG. 23 . 
       FIG. 25  is a greatly enlarged cross-sectional view of the area designated as “25” in  FIG. 22 . 
       FIG. 26  is a cross-sectional view taken along lines  26 — 26  of  FIG. 25 . 
       FIG. 27  is a cross-sectional view taken along lines  27 — 27  of  FIG. 25 . 
       FIG. 28  is a generally perspective view of still another form of the wake tower of the present invention shown affixed to the gunwales of a powerboat. 
       FIG. 29  is a side-elevational view, of the form of the wake tower shown in  FIG. 28 . 
       FIG. 30  is a view taken along lines  30 — 30  of  FIG. 29 . 
       FIG. 31  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  31 — 31  of  FIG. 29 . 
       FIG. 32  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  32 — 32  of  FIG. 29 . 
       FIG. 33  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  33 — 33  of  FIG. 29 . 
       FIG. 34  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  34 — 34  of  FIG. 30 . 
       FIG. 35  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  35 — 35  of  FIG. 30 . 
       FIG. 36  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  36 — 36  of  FIG. 35 . 
       FIG. 37  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  37 — 37  of  FIG. 35 . 
       FIG. 38  is a cross-sectional view taken along lines  38 — 38  of  FIG. 35 . 
       FIG. 39  is a cross-sectional view taken along lines  39 — 39  of  FIG. 35 . 
       FIG. 40  is a generally perspective, exploded view of the base assembly shown in  FIGS. 35 through 39 . 
       FIG. 41  is a fragmentary, cross-sectional view similar to  FIG. 35  showing the generally U-shaped, upwardly extending assembly pivoted into a stowed position. 
       FIG. 42  is a fragmentary, cross-sectional view similar to  FIG. 41  further, illustrating the downward and rearward pivotal movement of the U-shaped assembly. 
       FIG. 43  is a fragmentary, side-elevational view of yet another form of the wake tower of the present invention shown affixed to the gunwales of a powerboat. 
       FIG. 44  is a fragmentary, front view of one side of the wake tower assembly shown in  FIG. 43 . 
       FIGS. 45A and 45B  when considered together comprise an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  45 — 45  of  FIG. 44 . 
       FIG. 46  is a cross-sectional view taken along lines  46 — 46  of  FIG. 45A . 
       FIG. 47  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  47 — 47  of  FIG. 45A . 
       FIG. 48  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  48 — 48  of  FIG. 45A . 
       FIG. 49  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view, similar to  FIG. 45A , but showing the generally U-shaped, upwardly extending assembly pivoted into a forwardly stowed position. 
       FIG. 50  is a generally perspective, exploded view of one of the base assemblies and the lower portion of one of generally U-shaped, upwardly extending assemblies of this latest form of the invention. 
       FIG. 51  is a fragmentary, side-elevational view of yet another form of the wake tower of the present invention shown affixed to the gunwales of a powerboat. 
       FIG. 52  is a fragmentary, front view of one side of the wake tower assembly shown in  FIG. 51 . 
       FIG. 53  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  53 — 53  of  FIG. 52 . 
       FIG. 54  is a cross-sectional view taken along lines  54 — 54  of  FIG. 53 . 
       FIG. 55  is a generally perspective, exploded view of one of the base assemblies and the lower portion of one of generally U-shaped, upwardly extending assemblies of this latest form of the invention. 
       FIG. 56  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view, similar to  FIG. 53 , but showing the generally U-shaped, upwardly extending assembly pivoted into a rearwardly stowed position. 
       FIG. 57  is a fragmentary, side-elevational view of still another form of the wake tower of the present invention shown affixed to the gunwales of a powerboat. 
       FIG. 58  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  58 — 58  of  FIG. 57 . 
       FIG. 59  is a generally perspective, exploded view of one of the base assemblies and the lower portion of one of generally U-shaped, upwardly extending assemblies of this latest form of the invention. 
       FIG. 60  is a fragmentary, side-elevational view of still another form of the wake tower of the present invention shown affixed to the gunwales of a powerboat. 
       FIG. 61  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  61 — 61  of  FIG. 60 . 
       FIG. 62  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the area designated in  FIG. 60  as “62”. 
       FIG. 63  is a generally perspective, exploded view of one of the base assemblies and the lower portion of one of generally U-shaped, upwardly extending assemblies of this latest form of the invention. 
       FIG. 64  is a fragmentary, side-elevational view of yet another form of the wake tower of the present invention shown affixed to the gunwales of a powerboat. 
       FIG. 65  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  65 — 65  of  FIG. 64 . 
       FIG. 66  is a generally perspective, exploded view of one of the base assemblies and the lower portion of one of generally U-shaped, upwardly extending assemblies of this latest form of the invention. 
       FIG. 67  is a fragmentary, side-elevational view of still another form of the wake tower of the present invention shown affixed to the gunwales of a powerboat. 
       FIG. 68  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines  68 — 68  of  FIG. 67 . 
       FIG. 69  is a generally perspective, exploded view of one of the base assemblies and the lower portion of one of generally U-shaped, upwardly extending assemblies of this latest form of the invention. 
   

   DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
   Referring to the drawings and particularly to  FIGS. 1 ,  4  and  5 , one form of the wake tower of the invention is shown interconnected with a powerboat  30  of conventional construction having a bow portion  30   a  and a stem portion  30   b . As best seen in  FIG. 5 , the powerboat also has first and second spaced-apart gunwales  32  and  34  respectively to which the wake tower is connected. In the present form of the invention the wake tower includes an upwardly extending first base member  36  connected to the first gunwale  32  and an upwardly extending second base member  38  connected to said second gunwale  34 . The base members  36  and  38  are of a curved configuration and are preferably cast from a lightweight metal such as aluminum. 
   Interconnected with the base members is a generally U-shaped, upwardly extending structural assembly generally designated by the numeral  40 . The structural assembly  40  includes a generally “L”-shaped structural member  42  having a first curved side  42   a  and a cast aluminum first connector segment  44 . Structural member  40   a  is connected to aluminum first connector segment  44  by any suitable means such as welding. In a manner presently to be described, connector segment  44  is, in turn, pivotally connected to first base member  36 . Structural assembly  40  also includes a second generally “L”-shaped structural member  46  having a curved side  46   a  and a second, cast aluminum connector segment  48  that is connected to second curved side  46   a  by any suitable means such as welding. Connector segment  48  is, in turn, pivotally connected second base member  38 . 
   As will be discussed in greater detail hereinafter, each of the sides of structural assembly  40  is first swaged into the desired configuration and then is strategically formed to create a curved, tapered portion having an oval shape. More particularly, as best seen in  FIGS. 1 and 4 , each of the sides of the structural assembly  40  includes a lower portion  51  having a first width W and an upper portion  53  having a second width W−1 that is substantially less than said first width W. Structural assembly  40  further includes a bight portion  54  interconnecting upper portions  53  of the sides. As indicated in  FIG. 4 , bight portion  54  is generally circular in cross section. 
   In the form of the invention shown in  FIGS. 1 through 11 , the wake tower further includes a tow rope connector member  56  that is connected to and spans upper portion  53  of the sides  42  and  46 . Connected to the connector member  56  is a conventional type of connector  58  to which the tow rope “TR” can be connected. 
   Turning next to  FIGS. 6 ,  7  and  8 , a portion of one side of the wake tower of the invention is there shown. It is to be understood that the other side of the wake tower is of a similar construction, but is not shown in the drawings in order to simplify the description. Each of the base members is provided with a cavity  60  and each of the connector segments is provided with a pair of spaced-apart, downwardly extending ears  62  and  64  that are receivable within the base member cavities. As shown in  FIG. 6 , downwardly extending ear  62  has a bore  62   a  formed therein and, similarly, downwardly extending ear  64  has a bore  64   a  formed therein. Receivable within bore  62   a  is a pivot pin  66  about which side  46  and connector segment  48  can pivot in the manner shown in  FIG. 11 . 
   As illustrated in  FIGS. 9 and 10 , pivot pin  66  extends through aligned bores  69  formed in base member  38 . Similarly, a locking pin  72  is receivable within bore  64   a  formed in ear  64 . Pivot pin  66  extends through aligned bores  73  formed in base member  38  and, when in position within these openings in the manner shown in  FIGS. 6 and 9 , prevents pivotal movement of side  46  and connector segment  48  about pivot pin  66 . As indicated by the phantom lines in  FIG. 7 , when the locking pin  72  is removed from the base member, the combination of side  46  and connector segment  48  is free to pivot about pivot pin  66  in the manner shown in  FIG. 11 . 
   In accordance with one form of the method of making the wake tower illustrated in  FIGS. 1 through 11 , the first and second base members  36  and  38  are cast in a conventional manner from a suitable lightweight castable material such as aluminum and are appropriately finished. This done, the base members are interconnected with the powerboat by a plurality of threaded connectors  76  in the manner shown in  FIG. 6 . 
   The side members  42   a  and  46   a  are each formed individually by first heating a first length of tubing to an elevated, annealing temperature. This first length of tubing, which by way of example can be 6061-T6 aluminum tubing that has a diameter of approximately 5 inches, a first end  80   a  and a second end  80   b . In the manner illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the heated length of tubing is swaged in a conventional manner well known to those skilled in the art to form a first swaged tube  80  having a tapered swaged portion  82  having a first end  84  of first diameter D−1 and a second end  86  of a second lesser diameter D−2 and a uniform diameter portion  86  having a diameter D−3 substantially equal to said second lesser diameter D−2. 
   Using an appropriate forming dye, the tapered swaged portion  82  of the swaged tube  82  is strategically formed to produce a tapered swaged portion  82   a  and an elongated uniform diameter portion  86   a  ( FIG. 3 ). As illustrated in FIG.  3 , swaged portion  82   a  is generally oval-shaped in cross section and has a thickness “E”. Swaged portion  82   a  has a width W−1, while uniform diameter portion  86   a  has a lesser width W−2. This swaging step is done in a conventional manner using conventional tooling that is of the character well understood by those skilled in the art. 
   Following the swaging step, the swaged to first tube  80  is strategically bent into the desired shape to form a first bent tube that is generally “L”-shaped in configuration and generally corresponds to the shape of member  42   a.    
   Next, first connector segment  44  is cast in a conventional manner from a light weight castable material such aluminum and is connected by any suitable means such as welding to the bent tube formed by the swaging step to form a first wake tower subassembly  42 , which generally corresponds to one-half of the structural assembly  40 . 
   Following the forming of the first wake tower subassembly, a second length of aluminum tubing is swaged and formed in the identical manner described in the preceding paragraphs to produce a second side  46   a . This done, second connector segment  48  is suitably cast from a light weight metal such as aluminum and is interconnected as by welding was second side  46   a  to form assembly  46  that generally corresponds to the second half of the structural assembly  40 . 
   Next, the elongated, uniform diameter portions of the first and second wake tower subassemblies  42  and  46  are interconnected at their ends as by a welding to form the structural member  40 . 
   After completion of the construction of the structural member  40  in the manner described in the preceding paragraphs, the structural member is pivotally interconnected with the base members  36  and  38  in the manner depicted in  FIGS. 6 through 10  of the drawings to form the construction shown in  FIGS. 1 and 3 . More particularly, the ears formed on each of the connector segments are inserted into the base cavities, the pivot pins  66  are inserted into bores  69  and  62   a  and the locking pins are inserted into bores  73  and  64   a . With this construction, when it is desired to pivot the structural member into the forwardly stowed position in the manner illustrated in  FIG. 11 , locking pin  72  are removed from bores  73  and  64   a  to permit the structural member to pivot about pivot pin  66 . 
   Turning next to  FIGS. 12 through 21  an alternate form of the wake tower of the invention is shown and generally designated by the numeral  90 . This embodiment is similar in many respects to the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1 through 11  and like numerals are used in  FIGS. 12 through 21  to identify like components. One of the main differences between this latest form of the invention and the earlier described form resides in the fact that the wake tower slopes rearwardly instead of forwardly and instead of being pivotally movable toward the bow of the boat is pivotally movable toward the stern of the boat as shown in  FIG. 14  of the drawings. 
   Referring to  FIG. 12  of the drawings, wake tower  90  is shown interconnected with a powerboat  30  of conventional construction having a bow portion  30   a , a stern portion  30   b  and first and second spaced-apart gunwales  32  and  34  respectively. In this latest form of the invention, the wake tower includes an upwardly extending first base member  96  that is connected to the first gunwale  32  and an upwardly extending second base member  98  that is connected to said second gunwale  34 . The base members  96  and  98  are of a curved configuration and are preferably cast from a lightweight metal such as aluminum. 
   Interconnected with the base members is a generally U-shaped, upwardly extending structural assembly generally designated by the numeral  100 . The structural assembly  100  includes a generally “L”-shaped structural member  102  having a first curved side  102   a  and a cast aluminum first connector segment  104 . Structural member  102  is connected to aluminum first connector segment  104  by any suitable means such as welding. In a manner presently to be described, connector segment  104  is, in turn, pivotally connected to first base member  96 . Structural assembly  100  also includes a second generally “L”-shaped structural member  106  having a curved side  106   a  and a second, cast aluminum connector segment  108  that is connected to second curved side  106   a  by any suitable means such as welding. Connector segment  108  is, in turn, pivotally connected second base member  98 . 
   As in the earlier described embodiment of the invention, each of the sides of structural assembly  100  is first swaged into the desired configuration and then is strategically formed to create an elongated swaged portion having an oval shape (see  FIGS. 13 and 15 ). As indicated in  FIG. 14 , in this latest form of the invention, the bight portion  110  of the structural assembly  100  is also generally oval-shaped in cross section. Unlike the earlier described embodiment of the invention, the tow rope TR is directly connected to a connector  112  that is connected to bight portion  110  proximate the center thereof. 
   Turning next to  FIGS. 17 through 21 , a portion of one side of the wake tower of this latest form of the invention is there shown. It is to be understood that the other side of the wake tower is of a similar construction, but is not shown in the drawings in order to simplify the description. As best seen in  FIGS. 17 and 21 , each of the base members is provided with a cavity  114  and each of the connector segments is provided with a pair of spaced-apart, downwardly extending ears  116  and  118  that are receivable within the base member cavities. As shown in  FIG. 17 , downwardly extending ear  116  has a bore  116   a  formed therein and, similarly, downwardly extending ear  118 , which has a length greater than the length of the ear  116 , has a bore  118   a  formed therein. Receivable within bore  118   a  is a pivot pin  120  about which side  106  and connector segment  108  can pivot in the manner shown in  FIG. 21 . As illustrated in  FIGS. 19 and 20 , pivot pin  120  extends through aligned bores  123  formed in base member  98 . Similarly, a locking pin  124  is receivable within bore  116   a  formed in ear  116 . Locking pin  124  extends through aligned bores  125  formed in base member  98  and, when in position within these openings in the manner shown in  FIGS. 17 and 20 , prevents pivotal movement of side  106  and connector segment  108  about pivot pin  120 . As indicated by the phantom lines in  FIG. 20 , when the locking pin  124  is removed from the base member, the combination of side  106  and connector segment  108  is free to pivot about pivot pin  120  in the manner shown in  FIG. 21 . 
   In accordance with an alternate form of the method of making the wake tower illustrated in  FIGS. 12 through 21 , the first and second base members  96  and  98  are cast in a conventional manner from a suitable lightweight castable material such as aluminum and are appropriately finished. This done, the base members can be interconnected with the powerboat by a plurality of threaded connectors  129  in the manner shown in  FIG. 17 . 
   The side members  102   a  and  106   a  are each formed individually by first heating to an elevated, annealing temperature a first length of tubing, such as 6061-T6 aluminum tubing that has a diameter of approximately 5 inches. The heated length of tubing is swaged in a conventional manner well known to those skilled in the art to form a first swaged tube  130  of the general configuration shown in FIG.  12 . 
   Using an appropriate forming dye, the swaged tube  130  is strategically formed so that it is generally oval-shaped in cross section. This swaging step is done in a conventional manner using conventional tooling that is of the character well understood by those skilled in the art. Following the swaging step, the swaged to first tube  130  is strategically bent into the desired shape to form a first bent tube that is generally “L”-shaped in configuration and generally corresponds to the shape of member  102   a.    
   Next, first connector segment  104  is cast in a conventional manner from a light weight castable material such aluminum and is connected by any suitable means such as welding to the bent tube formed by the swaging step to form a first wake tower subassembly  102 , which generally corresponds to one-half of the structural assembly  100 . 
   Following the forming of the first wake tower subassembly, a second length of aluminum tubing is swaged and formed in the identical manner described in the preceding paragraphs to produce a second side  106   a . This done, second connector segment  108  is suitably cast from a light weight metal such as aluminum and is interconnected as by welding was second side  106   a  to form assembly  106  that generally corresponds to the second half of the structural assembly  100 . 
   Next, the first and second wake tower subassemblies  102  and  106  are interconnected at their ends as by welding to form the structural member  100 . 
   After completion of the construction of the structural member  100  in the manner described in the preceding paragraphs, the structural member is pivotally interconnected with the base members  96  and  98  in the manner depicted in  FIGS. 6 through 10  of the drawings to form the construction shown in  FIGS. 12 and 16 . More particularly, the ears formed on each of the connector segments are inserted into the base cavities, the pivot pins  120  are inserted into bores  123  and  118   a  and the locking pins are inserted into bores  125  and  116   a . With this construction, when it is desired to pivot the structural member rearwardly into the stowed position in the manner illustrated by the phantom lines in  FIG. 14 , locking pin  124  is removed from bores  125  and  116   a  to permit the structural member to pivot about pivot pin  120 . 
   Referring to  FIGS. 22 through 27 , still another form of the wake tower of the invention is there shown and generally designated by the numeral  140 . This embodiment is also similar in many respects to the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1 through 11  and like numerals are used in  FIGS. 12 through 21  to identify like components. The main differences between this latest form of the invention and that earlier described resides in the fact that the wake tower is cast by conventional casting techniques from a lightweight metal such as aluminum or from other suitable castable materials such as plastic. 
   Referring to  FIG. 25  of the drawings, wake tower  140  is interconnected with a powerboat  30  of the previously described, conventional construction having a bow portion, a stern portion and first and second spaced-apart gunwales. As before, the wake tower includes an upwardly extending first base member  36  that is connected to the first gunwale and an upwardly extending second base member  38  that is connected to said second gunwale. The base members are of a curved configuration and are also preferably cast from a lightweight material such as aluminum or the like. 
   Interconnected with the base members is a generally U-shaped, upwardly extending structural assembly generally designated by the numeral  142 . The structural assembly  142  includes a pair of generally “L”-shaped structural members each having a curved side  142   a  and a connector segment  142   b  that includes a basewall  142   c  that closes the lower extremity of the curved sides  142   a . The connector segments  142   b  are pivotally connected to the first and second base members in the manner previously described to enable the structural assembly to be pivoted into the stowed position as illustrated in  FIG. 4 . More particularly, as earlier discussed herein, the ears  62  and  64 , which form a part of the connector segments, are inserted into the base cavities  60 , the pivot pins  66  are inserted into bores  62   a  and the locking pins are inserted into bores  64   a . With this construction, when it is desired to pivot the structural member into the stowed position in the manner previously described, locking pins  72  are removed from bores  73  to permit the structural member to pivot about pivot pins  66 . 
   As best seen in  FIGS. 22 and 25 , each of the sides of the structural assembly  140  includes a lower portion having a first width W and an upper portion having a second width W−1 that is substantially less than said first width W. Structural assembly  140  further includes a bight portion  144  that interconnects the upper portions of the sides ( FIG. 22 ). As indicated in  FIGS. 22 ,  23  and  24 , bight portion  144  is generally circular in cross section. At the time of assembly of the structural assembly  142 , the bight portions are interconnected together by any suitable means such as welding (see  FIG. 23 ). As illustrated in  FIG. 26 , the sides of the structural assembly are generally oval in cross section. It is to be understood that the two sides of the wake tower  140  are of a similar construction, but only one side a shown in the drawings in order to simplify the specification. 
   In this latest form of the invention, like the form of the invention shown in  FIGS. 1 through 11 , the wake tower  140  further includes a tow rope connector member  146  that is connected to and spans upper portion of the sides  142   a . Connected to the connector member  146  is a conventional type of connector  58  to which the tow rope “TR” can be connected. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 28 through 42  still another form of the wake tower of the invention is there shown and generally designated by the numeral  150 . This embodiment is also similar in some respects to the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1 through 11  and like numerals are used in  FIGS. 28 through 42  to identify like components. One of the main differences between this latest form of the invention and the earlier described form resides in the fact that the side portions of the wake tower are of a different shape and of a different cross-sectional configuration. 
   Referring particularly to  FIGS. 28 ,  29  and  30 , wake tower  150  is shown interconnected with a powerboat  30  of conventional construction having a bow portion, a stern portion and first and second spaced-apart gunwales  32  and  34  respectively. In this latest form of the invention, the wake tower includes a pair of upwardly extending base assemblies  152  that are connected to the first and second gunwales  32  and  34 . Base assemblies  152 , which are of identical construction, each comprise a base connector  154  and a side connector  156  which forms a part of a generally U-shaped, upwardly extending structural assembly generally designated by the numeral  160 . In the manner shown in  FIG. 41 , generally U-shaped, upwardly extending structural assembly  160  is pivotally connected to the base connector ( FIG. 35 ). The base connectors and side connectors are preferably cast from a lightweight metal such as aluminum. 
   Generally U-shaped structural assembly  160  includes a first side assembly  162 , a second side assembly  164  and a bight portion  166 . Each of the side assemblies  162  and  164 , which are of substantially identical construction, is attached as by welding to one of the side connectors  156  in the manner best seen in  FIG. 35 . As shown in  FIG. 29 , a tow rope TR is directly connected to a connector  112  that is connected to bight portion  166  proximate the center thereof. 
   Referring particularly to  FIGS. 31 ,  32  and  35  it can be seen at that each of the side assemblies  162  and  164  comprises a pair of spaced-apart, generally tubular members  168  and  170  which curve upwardly and inwardly. Intermediate their lengths, the tubular members are interconnected by a generally tubular shaped cross member  172 . At their lower extremities, the tubular members are connected to side connectors  156  as by welding and proximate their upper extremities are connected as by welding to bight member  166  which is oval in cross section ( FIGS. 28 and 34 ). Tubular members  168  and  170  cooperate with side connectors  156  to define a generally triangularly shaped opening “O”. 
   Referring next to  FIGS. 43 through 50 , yet another form of the wake tower of the invention is shown interconnected with a powerboat  30  of conventional construction having a bow portion and a stem portion. This embodiment is similar in some respects to the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1 through 11  and like numerals are used in  FIGS. 43 through 50  to identify like components. One of the main differences between this latest form of the invention and the earlier described form resides in the provision of a novel counter-balancing means that is mounted on the under surface of one of the gunwales for yieldably resisting movement of the structural assembly toward its lowered, stowed position and for assisting in the return of the structural assembly to its upright starting position. 
   As before the powerboat also has first and second spaced-apart gunwales to which the wake tower is connected. In the present form of the invention the wake tower includes an upwardly extending first base member (not shown) connected to the first gunwale and an upwardly extending second base member  208  connected to said second gunwale  34 . The base members are of basically the same curved configuration as before save that base member  208  is provided with a first bore  210  of a first diameter and a second bore  212  of a second diameter ( FIG. 45A ). Interconnected with the base members is a generally U-shaped, upwardly extending structural assembly  214 , which is of similar construction to that previously described. Structural assembly  214  here includes connector segments  214   a , which are pivotally connected to the first and second base members. 
   In this latest form of the invention, the wake tower further includes a tow rope connector member assembly  216  that includes a conventional type of connector  218  to which the tow rope “TR” can be connected ( FIG. 43 ). 
   As illustrated in  FIG. 45A , the base members are provided with spaced-apart first and second bores the purpose of which will presently be described and a cavity  220 . Connector segments  214   a  are provided with a pair of spaced-apart, downwardly extending ears  222  and  224  that are receivable within the base member cavities. Downwardly extending ear  222  has a bore  222   a  formed therein and, similarly, the upper portion  224   a  of downwardly extending ear  224  has a bore  226  formed therein. Receivable within bore  222   a  is a pivot pin  227  about which the connector segments  214   a  can pivot in the manner illustrated by the phantom lines of  FIG. 43 . Pivot pin  227  extends through aligned bores formed in the base members. 
   This latest embodiment of the invention includes novel locking means that is connected to second upwardly extending base connector  208  for locking the generally U-shaped upwardly extending assembly  214  against pivotal movement. This locking means here includes a locking pin  228  that is receivable within bore  226  formed in the upper portion  224   a  of downwardly extending ear  224  and within bores  230  and  232  formed in the base member  208  ( FIG. 46 ). When locking pin  228  is in position within these openings in the manner shown in  FIG. 46 , pivotal movement of the structural assembly  214  is prevented. However, as indicated by the phantom lines in  FIG. 43 , when the locking pin  228  is removed from the base member  208 , structural assembly  214  is free to pivot about pivot pin  227  in a direction toward the bow portion of the sports boat in the manner shown by the phantom lines in  FIG. 43 . 
   An important aspect of this latest embodiment of the invention is the provision of the previously mentioned counter-balancing means. This novel counter-balancing means functions to yieldably resist movement of the generally U-shaped, upwardly extending structural assembly toward said second lowered position and to assist in the movement of the structural assembly toward its first upright position. As best seen by referring to  FIGS. 45A and 45B , this counter-balancing means here comprises an extendable, retractable coil spring  236  having a diameter “D” ( FIG. 46 ) and a length “L” ( FIG. 43 ). Coil spring  236  is operable associated with structural assembly  214  in the manner shown in  FIG. 43 . 
   The novel counter-balancing means of the invention further comprises an elongated, hollow housing  238 , which closely receives therewithin coil spring  236  (see  FIGS. 45A ,  45 B and  46 ). Hollow housing  238 , which has first and second end portions  238   a  and  238   b  respectively, is connected to second gunwale  34  by means of a pair of spaced-apart, downwardly extending connector members  240 , which are interconnected with the lower surface of gunwale  34  and with the upper surface of hollow housing  238  by any suitable means such as welding. Also forming a part of the novel counter-balancing means of the invention is an elongated connector cable  242 . Connector cable  242 , which is entrained about a pulley  243  that is rotatably connected to a pulley support member  245  that depends from the lower surface of the gunwale  34  and extends through opening  263  formed in the gunwale, has a first end  242   a  connected to the first extremity  236   a  of coil spring  236  and a second end  242   b  connected to the lower portion  244  of connector ear  224  ( FIG. 45A ). 
   The novel counter-balancing means of this latest form of the invention further comprises adjustment means for adjusting the length of coil spring  236 . As best seen by referring to  FIG. 45B , this important adjustment means here comprises an elongated, threaded adjustment rod  246  that is threadably connected to an end cap  248  that is affixed to the second end portion  238   b  of hollow housing  238 . The inboard end  246   a  of adjustment rod  246  is interconnected with the second extremity  236   b  in the manner shown in  FIG. 45B . 
   With the construction described in the preceding paragraphs, and as illustrated in  FIG. 49  of the drawings, when the structural assembly is pivoted into its foreword stowed position, cable  242  will extend the length “L” of the coil spring  236  from its relaxed configuration shown in  FIGS. 45A and 45B  to its extended configuration shown in  FIG. 49  and in so doing will offset the force generated by the structural assembly as it moves toward its stowed position. The coil spring will remain in its extended position so long as the structural assembly is in its stowed position and will then assist the operator in returning the structural assembly to its upright starting position by advantageously offsetting the weight of the structural assembly. The force exerted by the coil spring in assisting in the return of the structural assembly to its upright position, can be adjusted by increasing the length “L” of the coil spring. This is accomplished by rotating the threaded connector rod  246  in a clockwise direction relative to cap  248 , which rotation extends the length of the coil spring in its starting position. With the coil spring in its initial extended configuration, movement of the structural assembly into its stowed configuration will load the spring in a manner to cause it to exert a greater assisting force when the structural assembly is returned to its upright starting configuration. 
   Turning to  FIGS. 51 through 56 , still another form of the wake tower of the invention is shown interconnected with a powerboat  30  of conventional construction having a bow portion and a stern portion. This embodiment is similar in many respects to the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 43 through 50  and like numerals are used in  FIGS. 51 through 56  to identify like components. One of the main differences between this latest form of the invention and the earlier described form is that the generally U-shaped upwardly extending assembly, instead of being pivotally movable in a direction toward the bow portion of the sports boat, is pivotally movable in a direction toward the stern portion of the boat. As in the earlier described embodiment of the invention, counter-balancing means are provided for yieldably resisting movement of the structural assembly toward its lowered, stowed position and for assisting in the return of the structural assembly to its upright starting position. 
   As before, this latest form of the invention includes a wake tower that comprises an upwardly extending first base member (not shown) connected to the first gunwale and an upwardly extending second base member  258  connected to said second gunwale  34 . The base members are of basically the same curved configuration as in the last described embodiment, save that base member  258  is provided with a first tapered bore  260  and a second straight bore  262  that communicates with a bore  263  formed in gunwale  34  ( FIG. 53 ). Interconnected with the base members is a generally U-shaped, upwardly extending structural assembly  264 , which is of similar construction to that previously described. Structural assembly  264  here includes connector segments  264   a , which are pivotally connected to the first and second base members. 
   In this latest form of the invention, the wake tower further includes a tow rope connector member assembly  266  that includes a conventional type of connector  268  to which the tow rope “TR” can be connected ( FIG. 51 ). 
   As illustrated in  FIG. 53 , the base members are provided with a cavity  270  and the connector segments  264   a  are provided with a pair of spaced-apart, downwardly extending ears  272  and  274  that are receivable within the base member cavities. Downwardly extending ear  274  has a bore  274   a  formed therein and, similarly, the upper portion  272   a  of downwardly extending ear  272  has a bore  276  formed therein. Receivable within bore  274   a  is a pivot pin  278  about which the connector segments  264   a  can pivot in the manner illustrated by the phantom lines of  FIG. 51 . Pivot pin  278  extends through aligned bores formed in the base members (see  FIG. 55 ). 
   This latest embodiment of the invention also includes novel locking means that is connected to second upwardly extending base connector  258  for locking the generally U-shaped upwardly extending assembly  264  against pivotal movement. This locking means here includes a locking pin  279  that is receivable within bore  276  formed in the upper portion  272   a  of downwardly extending ear  272  and within bores  280  formed in the base member  258  ( FIG. 55 ). When locking pin  279  is in position within these openings in the manner shown in  FIG. 53 , pivotal movement of the structural assembly  264  is prevented. However, as indicated by the phantom lines in  FIG. 51 , when the locking pin  279  is removed from the base member  258 , structural assembly  264  is free to pivot about pivot pin  278  in the manner shown by the phantom lines in  FIG. 51 . 
   An important aspect of this latest embodiment of the invention is the provision of the previously mentioned counter-balancing means. This novel counter-balancing means, which is quite similar to that previously described, functions to yieldably resist movement of the generally U-shaped, upwardly extending structural assembly toward said second lowered position and to assist in the movement of the structural assembly toward its first upright position. As best seen by referring to  FIG. 55 , this counter-balancing means here comprises an extendable, retractable coil spring  236 , which is identical in construction and operation to that previously described. Coil spring  236  is operable associated with structural assembly  264  in the manner shown in  FIG. 53 . 
   The novel counter-balancing means of the invention further comprises an elongated, hollow housing  238 , which closely receives therewithin coil spring  236 . Hollow housing  238 , which has first and second end portions  238   a  and  238   b  respectively, is connected to second gunwale  34  by means of a pair of spaced-apart, downwardly extending connector members  240 , which are interconnected with the lower surface of gunwale  34  and with the upper surface of hollow housing  238  by any suitable means such as welding (see  FIGS. 51 and 53 ). Also forming a part of the novel counter-balancing means of the invention is an elongated connector cable  242 . Connector cable  242 , which is entrained about a pulley  243  that is rotatably connected to a pulley support member  245  that depends from the lower surface of the gunwale  34  and extends through opening  263  formed in the gunwale, has a first end  242   a  connected to the first extremity  236   a  of coil spring  236  and a second end  242   b  connected to the lower portion  284  of connector ear  272  ( FIG. 53 ). 
   As in the last described embodiment of the invention, the novel counter-balancing means of this latest form of the invention further comprises adjustment means for adjusting the length of coil spring  236 . This adjustment means is identical in construction and operation to that described in connection with the embodiment of  FIGS. 43 through 50 . 
   With the construction described in the preceding paragraphs, and as illustrated in  FIG. 56  of the drawings, when the structural assembly is pivoted into its rearward stowed position, cable  242  will extend the length of the coil spring  236  from its relaxed configuration shown in  FIGS. 51 and 53  to its extended configuration shown in  FIG. 56  and in so doing will offset the force generated by the structural assembly as it moves toward its stowed position. The coil spring will remain in its extended position so long as the structural assembly is in its stowed position and will then assist the operator in returning the structural assembly to its upright starting position by advantageously offsetting the weight of the structural assembly. The force exerted by the coil spring in assisting in the return of the structural assembly to its upright position, can be adjusted by increasing the length “L” of the coil spring. This is accomplished by rotating the threaded connector rod  246  in a clockwise direction relative to cap  248 , which rotation extends the length of the coil spring in its starting position. With the coil spring in its initial extended configuration, movement of the structural assembly into its stowed configuration will load the spring in a manner to cause it to exert a greater assisting force when the structural assembly is returned to its upright starting configuration. 
   Turning next to  FIGS. 57 through 59 , still another form of the wake tower of the invention is shown interconnected with a powerboat  30  of conventional construction having a bow portion and a stern portion. This embodiment is similar in some respects to the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1 through 11  and like numerals are used in  FIGS. 57 through 59  to identify like components. The main difference between this latest form of the invention and the earlier described form resides in the provision of a totally different locking means that is operably associated with a selected one of the upwardly extending base connectors for locking the generally U-shaped upwardly extending assembly against pivotal movement. 
   As before, this latest form of the invention includes a wake tower that comprises an upwardly extending first base member (not shown) connected to the first gunwale and an upwardly extending second base member  298  connected to the second gunwale  34 . The base members are of basically the same curved configuration as in the earlier described embodiment save that base member  298  is provided with a locking shoulder  302  that is disposed within a cavity  304  formed in the base member. Interconnected with the base members is a generally U-shaped, upwardly extending structural assembly  306 , which is of similar construction to that previously described. Structural assembly  306  here includes connector segments  306   a  which are pivotally connected to the first and second base members. 
   As illustrated in  FIG. 57 , the connector segments  306   a  are provided with downwardly extending ears  308  that are receivable within the base member cavities  304 . Downwardly extending ears  308  have a bore  308   a  formed therein. Receivable within bores  308   a  are pivot pins  310  ( FIG. 59 ) about which the connector segments  306   a  can pivot in the manner illustrated by the phantom lines of  FIG. 57 . Pivot pins  310  extend through aligned bores formed in the base members. 
   This latest embodiment of the invention also includes the previously mentioned locking means that is connected to a selected one of the connector segments  306   a  for locking the generally U-shaped upwardly extending assembly  306  against pivotal movement. This novel locking means here includes a locking member  312  that is pivotally connected to connector segment  306   a  for movement between a first locked position shown in  FIG. 57  and a second release position against the urging of a torsion spring  314 . Locking member  312  here comprises a finger-engaging portion  314   a  and locking portion  314   b  (see  FIG. 59 ) that extends into cavity  304  in a manner shown in  FIG. 57 . Locking portion  314   b  is provided with a hook-like extremity  316  that lockably engages shoulder  302  when the locking means is in the locking configuration shown in  FIG. 57 . Locking member  312  can be moved into the release position by exerting a downward force against the urging of torsion spring  314  in the direction of the arrow  317  of  FIG. 57 . With the locking member in the release position, the generally U-shaped, upwardly extending assembly  306  can be pivoted into the stowed position shown by the phantom lines in  FIG. 57 . 
   Referring now to  FIGS. 60 through 63 , still another form of the wake tower of the invention is shown interconnected with a powerboat  30  of conventional construction having a bow portion and a stem portion. This embodiment is also similar in some respects to the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1 through 11  and like numerals are used in  FIGS. 60 through 63  to identify like components. The main difference between this latest form of the invention and the earlier described form resides in the provision of a still different locking means that is connected to one of the upwardly extending base connectors for locking the generally U-shaped upwardly extending assembly against pivotal movement. 
   As before, this latest form of the invention includes a wake tower that comprises an upwardly extending first base member (not shown) connected to the first gunwale and an upwardly extending second base member  318  connected to the second gunwale  34 . The base members are of basically the same curved configuration as in the earlier described embodiment save that base member  318  is provided with a bore  320  that communicates with a cavity  324  formed in the base member. Interconnected with the base members is a generally U-shaped, upwardly extending structural assembly  326 , which is of similar construction to that previously described. Structural assembly  326  here includes connector segments  326   a , which are pivotally connected to the first and second base members. 
   As illustrated in  FIG. 60 , the connector segments  326   a  are provided with downwardly extending ears  328  that are receivable within the base member cavities  304 . Downwardly extending ears  328  have a bore  328   a  formed therein. Receivable within bores  328   a  are pivot pins  330  ( FIGS. 60 and 63 ) about which the connector segments  326   a  can pivot in the manner illustrated by the phantom lines of  FIG. 60 . Pivot pins  330  extend through aligned bores formed in the base members. 
   This latest embodiment of the invention also includes the previously mentioned locking means that is connected to a selected one of the base members for locking the generally U-shaped upwardly extending assembly  326  against pivotal movement. This novel locking means here includes a locking pin  332  that is telescopically received within a sleeve  331  which is disposed within bore  320  for movement against the urging of a coil spring  334  from the first inward position shown in  FIG. 60  to the second release position shown by the phantom lines in  FIG. 60 . A set screw  331   a  retains sleeve  331  in position within bore  320 . When the locking pin  332  is in the inward, locking position, the inboard end  332   a  thereof lockably engages a notch  336  formed in a downwardly extending ear  338  formed on connector segment  326   a  preventing pivotal movement of assembly  326 . When it is desired to pivot the U-shaped assembly  326  into its stowed position an outward force exerted on pin  332  in the direction of the arrow  337  of  FIG. 62  will move the pin into the release position wherein end  332   a  moves out of notch  336  formed in ear  338 . 
   Turning next to  FIGS. 64 through 66 , still another form of the wake tower of the invention is shown interconnected with a powerboat  30  of conventional construction having a bow portion and a stem portion. This embodiment is similar in some respects to the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 60 through 63  and like numerals are used in  FIGS. 64 through 66  to identify like components. The main difference between this latest form of the invention and the earlier described form resides in the provision of a still different type of locking means that is operably associated with a selected one of the upwardly extending base connectors for locking the generally U-shaped upwardly extending assembly against pivotal movement. 
   As before, this latest form of the invention includes a wake tower that comprises an upwardly extending first base member (not shown) connected to the first gunwale and an upwardly extending second base member  340  connected to the second gunwale  34 . The base members are of basically the same curved configuration as in the earlier described embodiment save that base member  340  is provided with a threaded bore  342  that communicates with a cavity  344  formed in the base member. Interconnected with the base members is a generally U-shaped, upwardly extending structural assembly  346 , which is of similar construction to that previously described. Structural assembly  346  here includes connector segments  346   a  which are pivotally connected to the first and second base members. 
   As illustrated in  FIG. 64 , the connector segments  346   a  are provided with downwardly extending ears  348  that are receivable within the base member cavities  344 . Downwardly extending ears  348  have a bore  348   a  formed therein. Receivable within bores  348   a  are pivot pins  350  ( FIGS. 64 and 66 ) about which the connector segments  346   a  can pivot in the manner illustrated by the phantom lines of  FIG. 64 . Pivot pins  350  extend through aligned bores formed in the base members. 
   This latest embodiment of the invention also includes the previously mentioned locking means that is connected to a selected one of the base members for locking the generally U-shaped upwardly extending assembly  346  against pivotal movement. This novel locking means here includes a threaded locking screw  352  that is threadably received within threaded bore  342  formed in base member  340 . Locking screw  352  is movable from the first inward position shown in  FIG. 64  to the second release position shown by the phantom lines in  FIG. 64 . When the locking screw  352  is in the inward, locking position, the inboard end  352   a  thereof lockably engages a notch  356  formed in a downwardly extending ear  358  formed on connector segment  346   a  preventing pivotal movement of assembly  346 . When it is desired to pivot the U-shaped assembly  346  into its stowed position, locking screw  352  can be rotated in a counterclockwise direction so as to move the locking screw into the release position wherein end  352   a  moves out of notch  356  formed in ear  358 . 
   Turning next to  FIGS. 67 through 69 , yet another form of the wake tower of the invention is shown interconnected with a powerboat  30  of conventional construction having a bow portion and a stem portion. This embodiment is similar in some respects to the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 64 through 66  and like numerals are used in  FIGS. 67 through 69  to identify like components. The main difference between this latest form of the invention and the earlier described form resides in the provision of a yet another type of locking means that is operably associated with a selected one of the upwardly extending base connectors for locking the generally U-shaped upwardly extending assembly against pivotal movement. 
   As before, this latest form of the invention includes a wake tower that comprises an upwardly extending first base member (not shown) connected to the first gunwale and an upwardly extending second base member  362  connected to the second gunwale  34 . The base members are of basically the same curved configuration as in the earlier described embodiment save that base member  362  is provided with a generally vertically extending threaded bore  364  that communicates with a cavity  366  formed in the base member and also with a bore  368  formed in the generally U-shaped upwardly extending assembly  370  that is interconnected with base member  362 , which is of similar construction to that previously described. Structural assembly  374  here includes connector segments  374   a , which are pivotally connected the first and second base members. 
   As illustrated in  FIG. 67 , the connector segments  370   a  are provided with downwardly extending ears  372  that are receivable within the base member cavities  366 . Downwardly extending ears  372  have a bore  372   a  formed therein. Receivable within bores  372   a  are pivot pins  374  ( FIGS. 64 and 66 ) about which the connector segments  370   a  can pivot in the manner illustrated by the phantom lines of  FIG. 67 . As before, pivot pins  374  extend through aligned bores formed in the base members. 
   This latest embodiment of the invention also includes the previously mentioned locking means that is connected to a selected one of the base members for locking the generally U-shaped upwardly extending assembly  370  against pivotal movement. This novel locking means here includes an elongated, generally vertically extending threaded locking screw  376  the lower end  376   a  of which is threadably received within threaded bore  364  formed in base member  362 . Locking screw  376  is telescopically movable within generally vertically extending bore  368  from the first downward most locking position shown in  FIGS. 67 and 68  to a second, upward release position. When the locking screw  376  is in the downward, locking position, pivotal movement of assembly  370  is effectively prevented. When it is desired to pivot the U-shaped assembly  370  into its stowed position, locking screw  376  can be rotated in a counterclockwise direction so as to move the locking screw into the upward, release position wherein end  376   a  moves out of threaded bore  364 . 
   Having now described the invention in detail in accordance with the requirements of the patent statutes, those skilled in this art will have no difficulty in making changes and modifications in the individual parts or their relative assembly in order to meet specific requirements or conditions. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention, as set forth in the following claims.