Introduction: Boating is a recreational activity that improves the quality of life. It reduces different forms of stress and provides an enriching opportunity to immerse oneself in a physical activity without getting overloaded. Boating is an affordable recreation and helps one bond with family and friends.
Outboard Motors: Outboard motors are a motor engine consisting of engine, jet drive, and gearbox and are self-propelled. It is the most common method of watercraft propelment. They also provide steering control. Unlike inboard motors, outboard motors can be taken out for repairs or storage. When boats are not in use, outboard motors can be tilted by lifting the propeller and hauled out of water.
Power Requirements of Outboard Motors: These are dependent on horsepower needed for the hull. Bad motor performance is linked to bad motors with low horsepower. The length of the shaft is 15 inch or 25 inch or 20 inch. A long shaft will dip too much into the water creating drag. This will affect the showing of the motor and also result in too much consumption of fuel. The height of the motor is also instrumental in achieving performance. The motor should be placed as high as possible for better exhaust and contact with the water below. Hydrodynamic drag is reduced setting in higher speed for the boat. Trim is nothing but the slant in which a motor can be tilted on a boat to get maximum navigational efficiency. A slant also known as a trim of the maximum can result the bow of the boat raising high above the water. A neutral slant gives a normal boat ride. A trimmed in slant will eventually give a bow riding very low on the waters. Ventilation is a state of the motor when the propellers are taking in too much air or exhaust gas and hence the load on the motor is lesser than usual. Cavitation is a phenomenon caused when vegetation, under growth, garbage or other waste gets stuck on the propellers of the motor.
Trolling Motors: A trolling motor is a propulsion system consisting of an electric motor, propeller and controls. It is used on a fishing boat at the bow or stem. Trolling motors are also referred to outboard motors if they are powered by gasoline. Trolling for game is usually a secondary means of propulsion. It is mounted along the outboard motor.
Power Requirements of Trolling Motors: Auxiliary power is used to maneuver the boat. Trolling motors designed for this are mounted on the bow. They are the primary form of propulsion for small water craft. This is also used for kayaks and canoes. It is mostly used on lakes where gasoline powered engines are not allowed.
Electric Trolling Motors: This is 12, 24 or 36 volt DC electric motor to make the most of 12 volt batteries. The motor is sealed inside a watertight compartment at the edge of the shaft. The propeller is fitted on the propshaft. The tiller is used for steering with speed control. Foot control is available for speed controls. Wireless remote are available on high end late model trolling motors.
Gasoline Trolling Motors: Short sized outboard motors are also used as trolling motors on boats with larger engines. These boats do not travel efficiently at trolling speeds. This are operated through manual pull start, a throttle and gearshift controls mounted on the body of the motor. A tiller is used for steering and is for steering in a trolling motor.
Summary: Boating is a much enjoyable recreational activity, which adds to the betterment of ones life by improving health and recreation. It makes one occupied with a physical activity without need for much effort, detail, procedures or physical exertion. Outboard motors and trolling motors are used for boating rides and should be used as per a user’s requirements for speed, need, and activity.
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