jamesgangnc wrote:
"HK" wrote in message
. ..
jamesgangnc wrote:

The original design is because the early i/os really did use the lower
half of an outboard. Early big merc outboards actually have some parts
that are interchangeable with the early i/o legs. As to the reason, it
let them build a boat with some of the advantages of an outboards but
without the finicky, easily damaged, aluminum 2 stroke engines.
I/O's came about mainly because auto engine makers provided cheap engines
that could be mated, sort of, with a lower unit assembly that delivered
higher horsepower at a lower price than the outboards of the day.

And they still are one of the most popular consumer boat configurations sold
today.




Yawn. McDonalds probably still sells the most burgers...doesn't mean
they are any good.