Sterndrive

Sterndrive, "Inboard/Outboard Drives" or "Outdrives," are all words for the same thing: an engine placed inside a boat and a drive (with propeller) outside the boat and in the water. Single propeller drives and drives with duo props have many advantages (and some disadvantages) when compared to outboard motors. When choosing between outdrives and outboards, the decision ultimately comes down to the use for the boat in question and your own individual preferences.

Sterndrives score very high marks in the pure performance category. They compare very favorably with outboards when it comes to operation (they move more fluidly, with less vibration and noise), durability (their life span is generally longer), fuel efficiency and horsepower. The also pollute less than outboards, which is good for the environment as well as the boater (less odor/residue).

Outboards, however, do have some advantages over sterndrives. Outboards are simpler in general, and such simplicity has some desirable benefits. Depending on the horsepower, some outboards are less expensive than outdrives. And since they are less sophisticated in terms of design, they are easier to repair and and less difficult to winterize each year. As outboard manufacturers bring out larger and more sophisticated four stroke outboards, the major differences between outboards and inboards/outboards have decreased. The two major condiderations that remain are that sterndrives can handle more horsepower and that outboards hang on the outside of the boat which makes it less cramped onboard. Most people, however, still prefer the overall performance upgrades offered by outdrives.

Maintenance of Sterndrives
If you are looking to repair or winterize your outdrive, let the experts here at Marine Parts Express help you. We not only stock replacement parts for many kinds of drives and engines (including Volvo Penta, MerCruiser and OMC), but we can help you to diagnose and repair engine or propeller difficulties. Call us at (877) 621-2628 or send an e-mail to info@marinepartsexpress.com to find out more about the correct ways to care for your outdrive.