Favorite reversing gear

[External Combustion]

For all of you true inboard owners: What is your favorite reversing gear and why? I am looking for one in the 250 to 300 foot pound range and am just starting the research. Any opinions would help.

 

[JCF350]

Re: Favorite reversing gear

Older Units?
Mine has always been Twin-disc.
The only problem I've run into has been the shifter setup. People forget that the lever is supposed to hang loose after engagement.

 

[JCF350]

Re: Favorite reversing gear

Or are you looking for just a gear changer with no clutch action?

Oh yeah, Behind what? or remote mount?

Shaft speed?

 

[External Combustion]

Re: Favorite reversing gear

Hopefully I can find one that will bolt up behind a medium speed (1400- 1600) diesel. If not then I can fabricate the clutch/bell housing arraingement.

Either remote or direct control will work.

I have been around several Twin Disc units along with some others, but all of them were pre '70s. I have been told that Screamers almost always had Twin Disc behind them. Any idea about Caterpillar or Cummins? I have in mind using a precombustion chamber engine as they are more flexible in thier fuel requirements.

I have just started looking. I was hoping to avoid pitfalls that someone else has had the misfortune of experiencing. I am hopeful also that I can find an American made unit. Gear reduction of to three to one would be ideal, but I will most likely have to live with what I can find close to this.

Yes, it is for a displacment cruiser needing a little less input from the crew than a steam engine.

 

[QC]

Re: Favorite reversing gear

Most Caterpillar gears were/are Twin-disc. A Velvet Drive 71C direct, weighs only 95 lbs. and is capable of 300 lb/ft. input torque. They are cheap too. That's what I'd use.

 

[JCF350]

Re: Favorite reversing gear

Most Caterpillar gears were/are Twin-disc. A Velvet Drive 71C direct, weighs only 95 lbs. and is capable of 300 lb/ft. input torque. They are cheap too. That's what I'd use.

Good option. Plus he could add gear reduction.

Details here for them

http://www.motoren.ath.cx/menus/velvet.html

 

[External Combustion]

Re: Favorite reversing gear

Thanks fellas! That is what I am looking for. Weight is no problem, though I am pleased at the light weight of the gear. This will allow me to swing a large diameter prop at high efficiency. The large prop has proven to be just the thing for fighting wind. No waterskiing though.

 

[JCF350]

Re: Favorite reversing gear

Well if you wanted to ski you could always add a variable pitch prop.
Amazing how much bite you can get with the prop spooled up and then throw some pitch to it (need heavy flywheel though).