Outboard propulsion presentation
Outboard propulsion is an external propulsion system integral with the thruster, installed at the stern of the boat. The outboard consists of a single block that contains the engine, the transmission (the base), and the propeller. It is available from very small powers (about 2 HP) that is why it is particularly suitable for sailboats up to 8 m that need a maximum propulsion of 10 HP.
On a sailboat, the outboard motor is installed on the stern, with three installation possibilities :
- The chair which is a hook makes it possible to hang the outboard on a transom all flat and which can be raised (in addition to the engine).
- The transom This means that the motor is positioned directly on the surface of the boat.
In these two cases, the outboard combines the advantage of the rudder and the outboard (the engine can be turned to the right or to the left in addition to the rudder to manoeuvre)
- The well which is an opening in the bottom of the hull at the stern of the boat and has the advantages of inboard (the engine can be completely hidden and covered by a hood) and outboard. The disadvantage of this installation is the drag since the engine is no longer liftable and the immobility of the engine, which requires steering only with the rudder.
Unlike the outboard for motorboats The outboard motors for sailboats are installed high enough on the transom. They therefore have much longer shafts and very often special base ratios to have larger propellers (we speak of traction propellers). They are not designed for speed, but to provide maximum thrust.
Outboard Benefits
- More living space (frees up space for the in board)
- No drag, because it can be lifted. Very appreciated for sailing under sails
- Maintenance and care
- Installation
Disadvantages of the outboard
- Access to the engine for manoeuvring (controls are on the engine, all the way to the rear)
- Performance
