inboard vs. outboard

Interesting question.

I'll readily admit that I'm an outboard type - I much prefer outboards for a lot of reasons, up to and including performance, economy and lots of power in a small package.

Having said that, for the application you are interested in, I/O or straight inboards are probably the best choice. Outboards have the disadvantage of eating up a lot of stern so things like swim platforms are not practical. And with an outboard, there is always the issue of danger with a prop exposed - SS props can be sharp and even at idle or stopped can be a hazard. This is also true with an I/O, but it's not as dangerous as the I/O will hang the prop lower - plus there is a swim platform that one can get in and out of.

Inboard boats for your application are probably the best overall bet because everything is hung under the boat. In addition, you can really get freaky with the horsepower. :>)

As to handling, in my opinion, outboards out handle I/Os and inboards but that's a personal preference. I've been on inboards that handled like a sports car the steering was so responsive. Then again, I can do much the same with my outboards so I consider that a wash.

My experience with outboards in terms of economy and reliability has been excellent compared to others who have inboards or I/Os. Generally maintenance is less (Note: I'm a big two stroke guy so maintenance is somewhat less than four strokers). Outboards are generally quicker to diagnose/repair and the cost are somewhat diminished by the fact that it's exposed and easier to get to than an inboard or I/O.

And that, in my opinion, is that. :>)

***** Hope your day is great! *****

John

What're the limiting factors of your current boat? What extras are you looking for? That might help better determine what alternatives to consider.

The usual issues apply, I/O and outboards can be trimmed up but I/O's have maintenance issues if you're leaving them in the water. Inboards are the best for maintenance if it's in the water all the time but don't have the shallower drafts of I/O's. Jet drives have efficiency issues, especially as you into larger boats.

But it raises the question of what is it you want out of the boat ABOVE the waterline?

I'm not sure how you come to that conclusion? Sounds like he is boating on local lakes and that probably means trailering. If he gets a cuddy he's got no space forward of the driver for passengers. You think people like to ride in the cabin of a cuddy day boating on a lake?

Bill Kearney wrote:

Compared to the new 4 stroke outboards inboards are starting to lose just about any advantage they had until you get up around 300HP.

Imho, if you are truely into water sports and you trailer your boat then an outboard is the least desirable. Outboards have superior weight to power rations but sit on the transom of your boat right where you will be putting people in and out of the water.

If water skiing and/or wakeboarding is particularly importatnt to you then a true inboard ski boat is the best choice. Top end ski boats are expensive. If price was no object I would look at the mastercraft V-drives. But there are a number of good alternatives these days that are not so pricey.

An inboard/outboard is a good economical choice for an all around trailered family recreational boat. The volume that these are produced in makes them attractive cost wise.

Archie Bunker wrote: