Why You Should Switch to Using Outboard Motors

24 Sep 2024

Mercury engines installed on a boat.

A lot of boaters nowadays prefer using outboard motors, such as Yamaha, Suzuki, Honda, Mercury, and Tohatsu outboards for their boats since they are more efficient than inboard motors. That’s why many of them, especially those who own boats with inboard engines, want to upgrade their motors to outboard. If you are thinking about buying a boat or want to upgrade your current engine to a more durable and reliable one but need a compelling reason to push yourself into doing it, here are five valid reasons why you should bite in and buy yourself an outboard motor.

More Space

Outboard motors can just be mounted onto the exterior of your boat’s transom which frees up a lot of space on your deck, especially towards the stern. This allows you to create extra seating options for your passengers or use the area for storage. As you won’t have a bulky motor in your path, you can use the extra space according to your preference.

Increased Longevity

Inboard motors have more or less the same components as car motors which means they are not really designed to be totally exposed in marine environments. They are heavy, and bulky, have lots of components that can rust, and require complicated heat exchanges, blower fans, and other components that make them a hassle for most boats.

Outboard motors, on the other hand, were designed by engineers in the factory to meet the needs of the marine environment. Every component in the outboard motor is engineered to be on the water constantly and can withstand high loads that are typical of boating. These motors are purpose-built and will log many hours before needing a replacement.

More Accessible and Affordable

Inboard maintenance is difficult and cramped and often results in much more costly jobs because a marine technician qualified to service inboard engines has to perform the complex repairs on your behalf. Improper maintenance is the leading cause of engine damage, and not completing these tasks is extremely detrimental to your boat’s condition.

For outboard engines, you won’t have this problem at all. You can conveniently service your motor right at your home garage or take it to a servicing workshop. Since outboards can be brought easily and are generally accessible, they have cheaper maintenance costs. The ease of outboard maintenance is a contributing factor to their increased longevity.

More Efficient Power

Outboard motors, especially the newly released ones, are extremely powerful with better fuel economy, faster performance, and more efficient power compared with inboard propulsion systems.

Improved Draft

Outboard engines have a shallow draft that lets you cruise along lakes, rivers, and seas with ease. If you plan to use your boat to go fishing offshore or swim along the coast, an outboard motor-powered vessel will be a better option for you. These engines let you go on a plane position without worrying about running aground or facing difficulty in shallower areas of the water.

 

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