Outboard motor

<p>An outboard motor is a <a href="/facts/Marine_propulsion/fmjXgupn">propulsion</a> system for <a href="/facts/Boat/dz9LnNN6">boats</a>, consisting of a self-contained unit that includes engine, <a href="/facts/Gearbox/eoNqAufN">gearbox</a> and <a href="/facts/Propeller/0IN0JKXC">propeller</a> or <a href="/facts/Jetboat/9vuhuQu7">jet drive</a>, designed to be affixed to the outside of the <a href="/facts/Transom_(nautical)/SvnLchWC">transom</a>. They are the most common motorised method of propelling small watercraft. As well as providing propulsion, outboards provide steering control, as they are designed to pivot over their mountings and thus control the direction of thrust. The <a href="/facts/Skeg/G34PeNKa">skeg</a> also acts as a <a href="/facts/Rudder/w675HJUP">rudder</a> when the engine is not running. Unlike <a href="/facts/Inboard_motor/T3JoMkp0">inboard motors</a>, outboard motors can be easily removed for storage or repairs.
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<p>In order to eliminate the chances of hitting bottom with an outboard motor, the motor can be tilted up to an elevated position either electronically or manually. This helps when traveling through shallow waters where there may be debris that could potentially damage the motor as well as the <a href="/facts/Propeller/0IN0JKXC">propeller</a>. If the electric motor required to move the pistons which raise or lower the engine is malfunctioning, every outboard motor is equipped with a manual piston release which will allow the operator to drop the motor down to its lowest setting.
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Outboard motor open-in-new

Outboard motor