BoatBanter.com - View Single Post - Attaching an engine to an outdrive with a torque tube.

(Bruce Taber) wrote in message . com...
I am building a 18" barrelback runabout. Instaed of the standard
straight-shaft inboard drive, I am considering a modified I/O setup.
I would purchase a used Mercuiser 3.0L I/O. The engine would be
installed in the center of the boat as is normal for this type of boat
and is required for proper balance. The outdrive would be installed
on the transom. The driveshaft of the motor would be attached to the
outdrive with an extended drive shaft (torque tube), about 4' long.
Has anyone ever seen this done? Any comments or suggestions are
appreciated.

Centaflex make a series of shafts/rubber couplings that do exactly
what you want to do. AGM series. I'm doing exactly the same with an
8 ft 5 inch hollow shaft. Hollow shafts have the advantage that
longer lengths can be used without a support bearing.