Outboard motor facts for kids
An outboard motor is a special engine that attaches to the outside of a boat. It helps boats move through the water without needing oars. These motors are self-contained units. They include the engine, gearbox, and propeller. Outboard motors can be powered by gasoline, diesel, or even electric motors. Electric ones are great because they don't pollute the water or air.
Contents
What is an Outboard Motor?
An outboard motor is a complete power system for a boat. It has the engine, the gears, and the propeller all in one unit. This unit is usually clamped onto the back of a boat. This design makes them very popular. They are easy to attach and remove. This also makes them simple to maintain or replace.
How Outboard Motors Work
Outboard motors work by using an engine to spin a propeller. The propeller is like a fan underwater. As it spins, it pushes water backward. This action creates a forward push for the boat. This is similar to how a fan pushes air. The engine's power is sent through a shaft to the propeller.
Steering and Speed Control
To steer the boat, the entire outboard motor unit turns. This changes the direction the propeller pushes water. To control the boat's speed, you use a throttle. The throttle changes how fast the engine runs. This makes the propeller spin faster or slower.
Types of Outboard Motors
Outboard motors come in different types. They are mainly grouped by their fuel source. Each type has its own benefits.
Gasoline Outboards
Most outboard motors use gasoline as fuel. They are powerful and reliable. They are common for many types of boats. These motors can be two-stroke or four-stroke engines. Four-stroke engines are usually quieter and more fuel-efficient. Two-stroke engines are often lighter and simpler.
Electric Outboards
Electric outboard motors run on battery power. They are very quiet and produce no exhaust fumes. This makes them good for sensitive environments. They are often used on smaller boats. They are also popular for fishing in calm waters. Electric motors are becoming more powerful.
Propane Outboards
Some outboard motors use propane as fuel. Propane is a clean-burning fuel. These motors can be a good choice for some users. They offer an alternative to gasoline.
Parts of an Outboard Motor
An outboard motor has several key parts. Each part plays an important role.
- Powerhead: This is the top part. It contains the engine itself. This is where the fuel is burned to create power.
- Midsection: This connects the powerhead to the lower unit. It contains the driveshaft. The driveshaft transfers power from the engine down to the propeller.
- Lower Unit: This is the bottom part. It contains the gearbox and the propeller. The gearbox changes the engine's rotation. It makes the propeller spin at the right speed.
- Propeller: This is the part that pushes the water. It has blades that spin. This spinning motion moves the boat forward or backward.
- Transom Clamp: This is how the motor attaches to the back of the boat. It holds the motor securely in place.
- Steering Handle/Remote Control: This allows you to steer the boat. You can turn the motor directly with a handle. Or you can use a remote control system.
Why Are Outboard Motors Useful?
Outboard motors are very popular for many reasons. They offer great flexibility for boat owners.
Portability
One big advantage is their portability. You can easily remove an outboard motor from one boat. Then you can attach it to another. This is useful for people who own multiple boats. It also makes storage easier.
Easy Maintenance
Because they are self-contained, maintenance is often simpler. You can work on the motor outside the boat. If a major repair is needed, the entire unit can be removed. This makes repairs more convenient.
Shallow Water Operation
Many outboard motors can be tilted up. This allows boats to operate in very shallow water. It also helps when launching or docking. Tilting the motor prevents the propeller from hitting the bottom. This protects the motor from damage.
Versatility
Outboard motors come in many sizes and power levels. This means there is an outboard for almost any small to medium-sized boat. They are used on fishing boats, speedboats, and small passenger boats. They are also common on dinghies and tenders.
Images for kids
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Bolinder's two-cylinder Trim outboard engine.
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1979 Evinrude 70 hp outboard, cowling and air silencer removed, exposing its shift/throttle/spark advance linkages, flywheel, and three carburetors
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A motorboat with an outboard motor attached to it
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Neutral trim
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Trimmed in
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Trimmed out
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Rotor of the impeller pump (cooling system) of an outboard motor
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Vietnamese-style "Shrimp Tail Outboard Motor" Schematic.
