Understand the Basics of Boat Engines for Smooth Sailing on the Waters

Understand the Basics of Boat Engines for Smooth Sailing on the Waters

Article by Roberta Groche

It takes more than just cosmetics to make a boating experience top notch. Many of the design options that first come to mind are the seat fabrics or external boat colors. While these are each important elements, one must also consider what makes the boat run. The almighty Boat engines offer as many possibilities as the cosmetic design options.

Engine selection begins with establishing a basic understanding of what type of Marine engines are available. The two basic types are inboard and outboard. Inboard engines are housed inside the boat and contain all the functional elements below the boat as well. Items such as the propeller, rudder and steering control are vital parts of this engine design. Inboard engines are available with a limited number of customized options for the user. Among those options are gas and diesel fuel sources and single or twin engine capacity. Outboard engines feature all the same elements as inboard engines. The only difference is everything is contained outside the boat on the back end.

Other engine design types are variations of these two basic formats. Stern drive engines combine the attractive elements of the inboard and outboard engines into one streamlined, effective design. Boats built for speed and racing tend to employ a surface-piercing engine design. This gives the illusion of ‘walking on water’ by reducing wake resistance and increasing speed. Jet drives engines create a pathway for water circulation underneath the boat that propels it through the water. One of the latest developments on the market is a Volvo Penta Inboard Performance System. Face forward propellers circulate the water underneath the boat enhancing speed by up to 20% at a time.

Another option on the market is Rebuilt engines. This is a lengthy process of dismantling an engine and rebuilding it bigger, stronger and more efficient. Qualified engine rebuilders will utilize the same design formats and functions that original engine builders set in place. New parts are paired with functional older parts to create a high performance rebuilt marine engine. Once the rebuild is complete, quality control specialists inspect every inch of the engine to ensure it meets quality and safety requirements. Many marine engine rebuilders offer an extended warranty on these engines. New marine engines also come with a money back guarantee and a warranty period as well.

About the Author

Hannah Bryant is a journalist/writer residing in Tennessee who has conducted extensive research in the Boat engines industry and written numerous articles on the subject as well. Additional information on Marine engines can be found at: 8504 S. 228th Street; Kent, Washington, or by calling (800)542-3211.