Strange engine set-up

[Tim M]

I found this image (from a link on boatmad ). Why is the drag link on the "outside" of the engines, rather than at the front. Surly more pressure has to be applied by the steering this way (less leverage??)

[Richard B]

Originally Posted by timofengland

I found this image... on boatmad

Why not ask them on Boatmad then? They won't bite!

[Jonny Fuller]

No, not at all.

The distance from the axis (main sadle swivel) and the aft end of the wing plate, is far greater than you could place it fwd of the motor, so it's under less load.

This boat, unusualy has it's props turning 'in', which is considered faster, but less stable, using the normal setup of turning 'out', having the tie bar on the rear, puts it in tension, where as a fwd mounted bar would be in compression, which would require it to be a fair bit stiffer.

[jwalker]

Originally Posted by Jonny Fuller

...which would require it to be a fair bit stiffer.

But it's a pity they have chosen to bend the tie rod and compromise it's rigidity rather than produce a straight alternative setup. A straight tube can be good in compression if it is slightly cigar shaped. Just thought I'd drop that in....

[Jonny Fuller]

Originally Posted by jwalker

But it's a pity they have chosen to bend the tie rod and compromise it's rigidity rather than produce a straight alternative setup. A straight tube can be good in compression if it is slightly cigar shaped. Just thought I'd drop that in....

I agree, it looks odd, but it's clearly been done to stop the tie bar fouling the hydraulic rams anchor point on the wing plate, when on full lock.

Q....what is 'Cigar shaped'?

[jwalker]

Originally Posted by Jonny Fuller

.. but it's clearly been done to stop the tie bar fouling the hydraulic rams when on full lock.

I ken tha'...

Q....what is 'Cigar shaped'?

Er, like a cigar.....



Narrower at the ends than the middle and with the sides curved.