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There is a distinction between a true inboard engine and an inboard/outboard engine we need to discuss. The inboard engine is connected to a driveshaft, which controls the direction of the propeller, steering the boat. Īn inboard engine, sometimes referred to as an inboard motor or as sterndrive, is a boat propulsion mechanism that sits inside the hull of the boat permanently. If you are not quite ready to talk about engines but are interested in learning more about boating and what types of boats are out there, take a look at our Guide to Buying a Boat and when you’re ready to buy a boat, check out our guide to how much a boat costs. In this article, we are going to discuss more about what inboard and outboard engines are, the pros and cons of each type of engine, and how much they cost on average. When selecting an engine, there is one important choice you need to make first: inboard or outboard? The difference is actually within the words an inboard engine sits within the structure of the boat and is not visible whereas the outboard engine sits outside the structure of the boat and is clearly visible at all times. It also means you have some room for customization and can choose exactly which engine you want. It means you need to budget above the MSRP of the boat and plan to pay more for an engine (or two). Boats are almost always sold without the engine. If buying a boat is on your radar, one question you will need to answer is the type of engine you want. What Boats Usually Have an Outboard Engine?.What Boats Usually Have an Inboard Engine?.What is the Difference Between Inboard and Outboard Motors?.
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