Exploring different water bodies is a pastime that appeals to millions of people. To make the most of your journey and stay safe, though, you’ll need to have a good boat, and for that, you must choose the perfect motor.
For most boat lovers, the choice comes down to standard outboard vs inboard motors. Both options are popular: the retail sales of the former recently showed the highest annual volume in 20 years while the global market for the latter keeps rising every year. Each has its strong and weak points, and to select the most suitable option, you need to learn everything about both.
Inboard vs outboard motor parts
The debate regarding outboard motor vs inboard motor superiority has been ongoing for quite a while. These types of motors are both reliable, which explains their popularity, but they also have key differences that can sway your decision.
Motor placement and repairs
If you already own a vessel, then you know that its heart will always be its motor. The best sailing experience requires the best parts of a boat, so sailing lovers tend to get professional outboard motors at Bay MFG and enjoy the easy access the placement of this model provides. Outboard motors are mounted externally — they are instantly visible and can be handled directly. These boats and motors encounter danger head-on, but they can also be cleaned and repaired more easily.
The inboard motor, on the other hand, is installed right inside the boat’s hull. This complicates the access to it, and whatever damage it sustains will not be visible right away. You will need special technical knowledge to repair it. However, the fact that everything is hidden inside means that the boat with motor like this will avoid any external complications.
Boat performance
Outboard parts provide better maneuverability. That’s why they are ideal for smaller vessels, such as fishing boats. In turn, since inboard parts are hidden at the center of the vessel, they provide excellent stability. Large boats prefer them because a low level of gravity is perfect for making long-distance journeys and carrying heavy loads.
Common examples of usage
Outboard motors are common in smaller recreational vessels. People who like to explore shallow waters also prefer them. Inboard models are frequently encountered in yachts and cruisers, as well as various types of sports boats.
Pros and cons of inboard motors
Now, let’s focus on the inboard boats and motors. The market for such models is constantly growing: its size is projected to be worth around USD 3.01 billion by 2034, meaning that the popularity of inboard motors will only keep rising. Undoubtedly, this fact is explained by their advantages, although the drawbacks are substantial, too.
Pros
- Increased safety. Since the inboard motors stay under the hull, this decreases the risks to people and the motors themselves.
- Enhanced stability. The positioning of the motor gives the vessel crucial gravity, which helps people carry significant weights across bigger distances.
- Bigger power capacity. A motor boat with inboard parts operates on fuel, such as diesel, which gives it enough of an energy boost to travel for a good while.
Cons
- Challenging maintenance. Reaching the inboard motor is difficult due to its location, which makes any repair process complicated and costly as you need to dismantle other parts first.
- Elevated costs. When it comes to cost in the inboard vs outboard motor debate, the former type is more expensive.
- Not very maneuverable. Such boats aren’t as maneuverable as their outboard counterparts.
As far as power is concerned, it doesn’t matter whether you get the inboard or outboard motor — they are both fuelled in similar ways, so they allow traveling far. However, they differ in other respects. As you see, inboard motors are more costly, and they provide better safety and stability while falling short in terms of maintenance and maneuverability.
Pros and cons of outboard motors
Now, it’s time to consider outboard motors based on their strong and weak sides. It will help you make an informed choice later on, as you decide which type of motor to get for your boat.
Pros
- Simpler maintenance. Since the motor is located outside, it’s easy to take care of it.
- Less costly. Even the best outboard motor will cost less than the inboard versions.
- More maneuverable. Such motors allow docking smoothly.
Cons
- Makes extra noise. As you travel on boat with an outboard motor, it’ll be making loud noises that you might find grating.
- Less stable. The positioning of outboard motors creates an uneven weight distribution, so the vessels, especially those of a bigger size, become less stable.
- Reduced motor safety. These motors are easily susceptible to elements and other risks of damage.
So, boats with outboard motors are cheaper and simpler to handle, but they are also more prone to risks of various kinds.
How to choose between inboard and outboard motors?
What’s better, inboard or outboard boat motors? In all honestly, there is no universal answer here. The ultimate choice depends on your preferences.
The first factor to consider is your purpose. What are you planning to do with your boat? If you want to go on personal cruises or enjoy the world of water sports, getting an inboard motor will be a smarter decision. If you love fishing, then outboard models should be your choice. Remember about the noise they make, though, because not everyone can tolerate it!
Larger vessels need better stability during journeys, so if your boat falls into this category, go for the inboard motor. Be prepared to face higher costs and challenging repairs, though. However, if you want a simpler and cheaper option that is easy to handle, the outboard model will suit you better.
Consider the water bodies you’ll be conquering. Inboard motors fit deep waters, while outboard models are perfect for shallow ones.
Before you buy anything, consider the technical details. A standard vehicle check includes verifying history and looking for warning signs — do the same for your boat, especially if you’re purchasing a used model. Measure outboard shaft length in advance: you need to make sure that your motor will match a specific boat’s transom height.
The same goes for inboard models. Motors come in different sizes, so you’ll need something that fits your particular vessel.
Where to find the best boat motors
Whether you pick the outboard or inboard motor model, make sure it has a satisfying level of quality. Check the reputable marine stores nearby — you’ll get a consultation as a bonus. As another option, consider authorized dealers. They offer boats and motors from reputable brands, such as Suzuki and Yamaha.
Online marketplaces are also a possibility, but you’ll have to be careful here. Select verified platforms that accept responsibility for the deals they help perform.
Finally, you can consult experienced boaters and ask for their advice. Who knows, they might be interested in giving you a hand.
If you own a larger vessel and plan to explore the deep waters, pick the inboard motor over the outboard one. Choose wisely, and it will serve you for years to come.
