One boat is a shaft or V-drive, and the other is a twin sterndrive. Let’s do a comparison using a 15 year old 32ft boat as an example. The distinct advantage is that they’re cheaper and more readily available, having a longer running life.īut what does it cost to swap one of these transom assemblies out? Cost Comparison ![]() Now, this isn’t to say that a 15 year old shaft-drive boat wont need any maintenance – there are still numerous parts such as skeg bearings, rudders, bonding straps and seals that wear-out and need to be replaced. So, what about shaft-drives? Are they all bliss? To a certain degree, shaft-drives are a lot less maintenance. The trim can also be adjusted whilst running to help with the correct bow angle you desire for certain conditions. They use less fuel than a shaft-drive, and can be trimmed up in shallow waters, allowing you to beach your boat. Sterndrives are a faster and more efficient design, as they are mounted to the rear and produce less drag. 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. There are going to be some trade-offs in the long term, such as maintenance as they will need to be anti-fouled, and the cleaned internally for barnacle growth. A sterndrive is mass produced and very popular, meaning they cost less initially. Surely, you’d think that would mean they cost more, but not necessarily. With any sterndrive, there are a number of additional parts that live in the water such as bellows, universal joints, steering rods, bushes, transom assemblies and trim rams – which a shaft-drive vessel doesn’t have to worry about. But what does that even mean? Usually they tick all the boxes, having an immaculate interior, generator, and sometimes they’ll even have air-conditioning. When you’re looking at a 30-35ft boat in the $80-120k price bracket, you’re likely going to run into a lot of sterndrive petrol packages. Extreme example but hey.You’ve heard the sterndrive horror stories… thousands spent on repairing transoms and other components – but how does something like this happen?įirst, if you need clarification of what a sterndrive or shaft-drive is, check out one of our first articles here. I read recently that the new mercury 400/450 comes in at about 45k. ![]() If after 2016.these things are astonishing.but perhaps a little expensive, being critical. And should also be commended for really taking the owner into account and allowing the service to be so “home service user friendly) not many OEM will encourage you to do your own.ĭon’t have a second thought about them. Must applaud mercury for changing the game here. The oil drain hose from the sump that quick connects. Even so far as the drip tray under the oil filter that drains away. And there have been a few ! The engineering that’s gone into it is stunning. It is without doubt the cheapest and easiest services engine I’ve ever worked on. Exceptional detail on all engine data and fuel management etc. The smart craft technology it comes with too. It’s actually lighter in weight than the 125 hp optimax 2 stroke.out performed it in every way on a recent same boat test mercury did (and with less power ?).īut most of all.the economy is nothing short of ridiculous. Would easily put some ski boats to shame in pick up. Takes the big gear case and excellent line of props from mercury. Manages to push here along at 43 mph gps. Well.this thing has literally astounded me at every aspect. Just needed sensible and capable of the odd care free day out with the family. So decided to take a chance on it and just had it in my head not to expect too much. I did a bit of research and couldn’t believe what these things were apparently doing. I came across a late model hull but had been recently fitted with the latest model mercury mariner CT 4 stroke outboard. Didn’t want an outboard one and especially didn’t want a heavy 4 stroke gutless outboard one.īut. Always fancied one and knew it would be great for my needs and I wouldn’t overly fuss about it like the other boat. No question.Īfter deciding to put the special boat into storage for a rest.I decided to go for a fletcher sportscruiser 19. ![]() Until very recently I was an inboard and 2 stroke outboard man all the way.
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