inboard Props & shaft when hitting a Sandbar

[stunod12]

Hello everyone,<br />My boat is in Moriches bay Long island and I currently own a 21' I/O. Moriches bay has sandbars in the channel! I've seen the coastguard get stuck there. Anyway, Last summer I went for 3 props. I bought those Vortex interchangable hub kind so it was only 85.00 for each prop. <br /><br />My worry is, next year I will most likely buy a 27-29' Inboard. That means there's a good chance I will be replacing the prop due to wounderful Moriches Bay.<br /><br />Question: Are the props on inboards exposed to the bottom like I/Os? <br />If 2 boats hit bottom, and they are the same boats except 1 is I/O and the other I/B, will they have the same damage to the prop?<br /><br />Question 2: <br />When hitting a sandbar with an I/O, usually the outdrive gives alittle and kicks up. What about an I/B?? Does the shaft get bent?? ...if so...so how much should I save this winter to replace one??<br /><br />Just preparing for the future,<br />lou

 

[beckerdg]

Re: inboard Props & shaft when hitting a Sandbar

Depends on the boat. Some inboards the keel extends past the propeller and protects it. Some have no protection. An inboard prop can be damaged just like any other. Generally inboards draw more too and can't be trimmed up so you will need to travel in deeper water.

 

[DJ]

Re: inboard Props & shaft when hitting a Sandbar

Stunod12,<br /><br />JollyRoger is correct. Some inboards have extended keels offering reasonably good protection. Shamrock brand boats are famous for that.<br /><br />A true inboard also has the propshaft and the rudder hanging down there in harms way. Propshaft and stanchion damage are real possibilities.<br /><br />In addition, to change the prop on an inboard, you are going to get REAL wet.

 

[Capt. Bob]

Re: inboard Props & shaft when hitting a Sandbar

I'd say you either need to figure out where those sandbars are and steer clear or else get some kind of prop protector! <br /><br />On the other hand maybe invest in a prop shop for a discount. <br /><br />Seriously, why not get a handheld GPS for around a hundred $ and use it to follow the tracks you made previously? Then when you enter skinny water again you can avoid those bars. Sure would be cheaper than props, shafts, engine or hull damage...not even countin broken noses.

 

[skier]

Re: inboard Props & shaft when hitting a Sandbar

I've seen a few inboards that have a cutout in the bottom of the hull and the prop is tucked up in that space. I hav'nt seen one is a while though. Are they still making them?<br /><br />Craig

 

[DJ]

Re: inboard Props & shaft when hitting a Sandbar

stunod,<br /><br />Merc140 is referring to "pocket drives". Some makers still make them. They do take up some vertical room in the cockpit though.<br /><br />The most famus "pocket drive" boats were-Penn Yanns.

 

[Jack Shellac]

Re: inboard Props & shaft when hitting a Sandbar

You've picked out the major disadvantage of inboard boats. You've got to keep them in deep water. I would prefer an inboard myself, but because of where I operate it, went with outboard so can be trimmed up when necessary.

 

[Capt Ken]

Re: inboard Props & shaft when hitting a Sandbar

What you talking about Jack? There's plenty of water in Mobile Bay. Just spread kinda thin in places. I know all the short cuts into the Hatteras dealer at Dog Island. Or at least the ones I can get a 58 footer thru and believe me, I've sweated a few times.

 

[Jack Shellac]

Re: inboard Props & shaft when hitting a Sandbar

Capt Ken: I used to live in Panama City and I've run out of water there, too. My motto: If you're looking for a sandbar or an oyster reef, just follow me!!

 

[steelespike]

Re: inboard Props & shaft when hitting a Sandbar

Dont forget that running aground can cause <br />damage to the bottom of the boat as well. Ive seen struts pulled right out of the bottom.