Paul,
Glen is correct. One set of CV joints will handle about 8 degrees without to
much wear. Universal joints at that angle will create to much velocity
modulation and create a pounding noise when running. However, it is possible
to get 15 degrees of angle successfully. I have done this on my boat, but I
used an oil cooled thrust bearing at the end of the prop shaft. I then used
2 automotive rear axle CV joints from a 7 series BMW. The end of the second
shaft has a spline which mates to a modified BMW differential housing, which
is mounted into a watertight bulkhead in sheet rubber (for noise). The spool
inside was stripped of gears and locked. The diff is only acting as an
intermediate shaft bearing. The engine is connected to the diff, on the
other side of the bulkhead, through 2 BMW CV joints and splined shaft end in
a similar manner as the second shaft. So, in final assembly, I have 3 shafts
and 4 CV joints and 2 sliding splines absorbing about 15 degrees of angle.
This allows the engine to be shock mounted to the keel, as the engine and
gear no longer has to support shaft thrust. Automotive CV joints cannot
handle thrust. The Aqua - drive units do.
Steve

"Paul Baker" wrote in message
om...
Hello all.
I was wondering if anyone has any knowledge about installing an engine
15* different from prop. shaft. I'm hoping to drop the engine down
into the pilot house sole, so it's level. I'm considering "U" joints
or CV joints, or other alternatives that might prove better. I'm open
to any input. Thanks, Paul.