

Steering of stern drive boats is controlled by the outdrive, which swivels like an outboard engine to direct propeller thrust.

The engine turns a driveshaft that is attached to a propeller at the other end. Stern drive engines are four-stroke automotive engines adapted for marine use and are mounted inside the boat.Ī stern drive engine is attached through the transom to a drive unit (also called an outdrive) that is essentially the lower unit of an outboard. Stern drives are known also as inboard/outboards (I/Os) because they combine features found on both inboard and outboard engines. Steering of most inboard vessels (except PWCs and jet-drive boats) is controlled by a rudder behind the propeller. The engine turns a driveshaft that runs through the bottom of the hull and is attached to a propeller at the other end. It is mounted inside the hull or in front of the. Outboards have more power per pound of weight than inboard engines.Īn inboard is a four-stroke automotive engine adapted for marine use. Steering of boats with outboards is controlled by a tiller or steering wheel that swivels the entire engine to direct propeller thrust. New technology two-stroke outboards are direct-injection engines and burn more than 75% cleaner than conventional two-stroke outboards. Simple drive system can lower maintenanceĪn outboard is a portable, self-contained unit consisting of an engine, gear case and propeller, which is attached to the transom of a boat.Ī growing number of outboard engines have a four-stroke design, but many are still conventional two-stroke engines that burn oil as a lubricant along with the fuel.Inboards are common for tow sports such as waterskiing, wakeboarding as they allow the propeller to be brought forward of the back of the boat, providing area for platforms to assist skiers entering and exiting the boat. Exhaust is passed through the stern of the boat. A transmission is often used to transfer power from the engine to the propeller. In an inboard engine configuration, the engine sits amidships, with a drive running through the bottom of the boat to a propeller, and a separate rudder used for steering. Gasoline inboard engines range from 90 horsepower to over 1000 horsepower per engine and are used in a variety of boats, from tow sport boats to large cruisers. These boat engines are modified for maritime use. Generally run at lower RPM than traditional gas engines.No carbon monoxide to worry about in cabins or on the back of boats.However, they are used in larger vessels because of their ability to produce torque. In general, a diesel engine weighs more than a gas engine. The main reason diesel engines are not used in smaller boats is weight. While they’re widely used in other parts of the world, in the United States, they’re typically found in boats larger than 35 feet. Their design is similar to a traditional gas engine, with crankshafts and cylinders and pistons however, the fuel systems on a diesel engine are completely different and more complex.ĭiesel engines range in size and horsepower. Diesel Inboard Enginesĭiesel engines rely on compression to power the engine. These are the main types of engines available.

The two main factors to consider are the weight and horse power of your engine. For this reason, it is important to understand the different options available and which boat engine will fit your fishing needs.

Poor fuel economy when compared to an EFI or DFI systemĪ boat engine is one of the most essential components of a vessel.Higher emissions than an EFI or DFI system.Sealed fuel system (helps to eliminate fuel oxidation).Automatically adjusts to altitude, air and water temperatures.Each fuel delivery system is unique, and there are benefits to each system. When looking at gasoline engines (outboard, stern drive or inboard), there are three distinct types of fuel delivery systems on the market. A good rule of thumb is to come as close as possible to the maximum horsepower that your boat is rated for. When choosing the appropriate boat engine for your vessel, consider the size and weight of the boat and remember that weight includes your passengers, fuel and gear.
