Hi all, new here

[RedCatLady]

HI everyone, I'm new here to the forum and more or less to boating. <br /><br />My Dad had given me the use of his 1972 Sportcraft and we've had it out about 10 times total in a few years. This year being the most excursions so far. This boat has a 70 hp evinrude outboard on it.<br /><br />Decided I really like boating, so we upgraded to a 16' 1986 Imperial open bow with a 120 hp inboard. Its really in great shape, and we got it from a private sale with everything included for $2500.<br /><br />Is there anything I should know about operating an inboard as opposed to the outboard we are used to? We are picking it up on Wed. and I just want to make sure there isn't something that I should know and don't.<br /><br />Appreciate any info,<br /><br />Becky

 

[Solittle]

Re: Hi all, new here

A big WELCOME your way Red!!!<br /><br />First I hope you had this rig checked over by a marine mechanic check it over.<br /><br />On the operation - There is a big difference in the handling of a strait inboard versus an outboard or I/O rig. With an outboard or I/O the thrust moves from side to side as you turn the wheel. This is what shoves the stern port or starboard. With a strait drive the thrust from the prop is always directly aft or forward. The steering turns the rudder which deflects the thrust to one side or another. Other things come into play as the thrust is not a strait flow of water. There are a number of articles in Chapman's boat handling book which you can buy or checkout from your library that go both into the theory and practical aspects of helmsmanship.<br /><br />I would strongly recommend that you take it out and practice for several hours before you gather family for an outing. Try various approaches to a marker and dock to get a feel for the handling. Try different approaches (both forward and backward) varying wind and current as much as you can. It takes practice but you will get the hang of it. It wouldn't hurt to take someone along who has experience and can coach you through the maneuvers that you will need.

 

[beezee28]

Re: Hi all, new here

Welcome RedCat Lady.<br /><br />Like Solittle said, a direct inboard works differently form an outboard or a I/O. It handle differently and it do not turn as fast either way as you think. In inboard and I/O the whole unit where the prop is attached to moves in the direction that you want to turn whereas in an inboard the rudder at the back of the boat turns in the direction you want. The flow of water at the prop washes to the rudder and the force then makes the boat turn. Practice with your boat and learn it characteristics, just like solittle said.

 

[Darren Smith]

Re: Hi all, new here

Welcome to Iboats!<br /> First I'm going to say that it sounds like your new boat is an I/O, or inboard/outboard. Set up with a marinized automotive engine and the outdrive sticking out the back. The outdrive is very similar to the bottome of an outboard, but maybe a little stronger. The motor is similar to a car motor, but with special marine parts on it. That does NOT mean that you can go to your local auto parts store and get parts for it, the parts must be rated for marine use, and ignition protected. There are parts between the outdrive and the engine that must be serviced and inspected regularly. Either by a mechanic, or with a manual and a flashlight by yourself. Good luck and enjoy your new boat!

 

[RedCatLady]

Re: Hi all, new here

Originally posted by KnotAddicted:<br />[QB] Welcome to Iboats!<br /> First I'm going to say that it sounds like your new boat is an I/O, or inboard/outboard. Set up with a marinized automotive engine and the outdrive sticking out the back. The outdrive is very similar to the bottome of an outboard, but maybe a little stronger. The motor is similar to a car motor, but with special marine parts on it.<br /><br /><br />I think that you are right.. the guy said it was a 4cyl Chevy Nova engine. As you can tell I'm still learning a LOT...LOL What is the difference between an inboard and I/O. Someone had said something about running a blower before starting an engine on an inboard. Is this something I have to worry about too?<br /><br />Spoke with the man that services the boat yearly and he told us what he had done on it, so at least I'll have someone that is familiar with the boat to work on it when it needs it.<br /><br />What are the parts that need to be checked regularly? We do all the work on our own snowmobiles, so unless its something major we will probably do the same with the boat.<br /><br />Thanks guys, I appreciate the feedback and advice