A 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. The engine turns a drive shaft that is attached to a propeller at the other end.
What does an outdrive do?
The drive unit (outdrive) carries power from the inboard engine, typically mounted above the waterline, outboard through the transom and downward to the propeller below the waterline.
How does an outdrive connect to the engine?
ANSWER: The engine coupler connects the engine to the outdrive, which is outside of the boat. The coupler is made of aluminum and rubber, which isolates the vibration between the engine and the outdrive.
How long does a boat outdrive last?
It’s also common to expect between 10-15 years out of a well-used sterndrive and transom assembly, and then it’s a matter of continual repairs or replacing it once and for all.
What is the outdrive on a boat? – Related Questions
How often should outdrive be serviced?
Annual Service
Most outboard, sterndrive and gasoline inboard engines require basic service every 100 hours or annually.
How long can a boat sit without running?
One of the most commonly-asked questions we get is, “Is it okay if my boat isn’t running for a while in Fort Lauderdale, FL?” The answer is yes—but you have to do some maintenance beforehand. As long as it’s well maintained before going into storage, a boat can sit for a few months, a few years or even a few decades.
How many hours does a sterndrive last?
The average marine gasoline engine runs for 1,500 hours before needing a major overhaul.
What is considered high engine hours for a boat?
How many hours on a boat is considered high? If you are looking at a marine gasoline-powered boat to purchase that has reached 1500 hours, this is considered a lot.
Is 200 hours a lot for a boat?
Bear in mind that the average hours per season is about 50 hours, and for a boat engine about four to five years old, it’s normal to have around 200 to 250 running hours. The older the boat gets, the higher their engine hours may become. But there’s always some exceptions to this situation.
Is 700 hours a lot for a boat?
Is 700 hours on a boat a lot? If you are thinking about buying a boat with 700 hours on the engine, but it’s been kept in great shape and not hammered with regular maintenance, then actually 700 hours on a boat might not be a lot. It’s completely down to the brand and upkeep of the motor.
How long can you run an outboard at full throttle?
According to David Meeler, Yamaha’s product design manager, “You only have about 15 seconds of cumulative dry running time before your impeller starts to fail due to excessive friction. That means if you run your outboard dry for three seconds five times, it will likely fail.”
How much is a new boat engine?
An inboard powerboat engine replacement costs approximately $15,000, while you should set aside about $5,000 to $10,000 to replace the motor for a sailboat. If you have a sailboat with an outboard motor, you will pay significantly less, somewhere around $1,500, because this vessel uses wind as the first power source.
What are normal boat hours?
There are a few things to consider when looking at boat hours. Unless you are looking at a really high hour boat (2,000+ hours) there are typically very few drawbacks to the number of hours a boat has. In fact, a boat with normal hours (50-75 per year) will often time run better than a boat with low hours.
How long will a 4 stroke outboard last?
A typical two-stroke or four-stroke outboard engine should provide 1,500 hours of run time. Based on the average use of 200 hours per year, this will last 7-8 years. However, changing your oil every 50 hours of operation and regularly flushing the engine can see your outboard engine last 10 to 20 years.
How long do boats last?
So how long do boats last? The average boat is replaced every ten to twenty years. However, some boats will last much longer than that, but this will be determined by how the boat is used and how well it is maintained.
How long do boat batteries last?
The average life of a boat battery is around 3-4 years, although they can last up to 6 years in the right conditions. To ensure your battery lasts its full lifespan, keep your batteries connected to a maintenance charger to keep it fully charged.
Can you jumpstart a boat battery?
While it’s technically possible to jump start a marine battery using a car or other vehicle, it’s not a good idea. Marine batteries are different from auto batteries and attempting to jump start one using the other, could potentially cause damage to your batteries, your car or boat. It’s best not to risk it.
Why do boats have 2 batteries?
Boats often need two banks to have a reserve bank to be sure the engine will start, or to have a large “house” bank so you can run bigger DC loads for longer time periods.
Do boat batteries recharge themselves?
Once the outboard is running, its alternator will recharge the cranking battery to compensate for the power delivered while starting the motor, and for any power drawn for other “house” needs, including live well or bilge pumps, fish finders, or navigation lights.
Should I leave my boat plugged in?
Don’t leave the battery connected
Unless your battery will be hooked up to a trickle charger for the winter months, it’s not a good idea to leave it connected to anything. By leaving the battery connected to the boat you run the risk of increased corrosion and an increased rate of discharge.