What is a Surface Drive and a V drive?

[Canaduke]

I've seen these three terms tossed around quite often but I'm really not familiar with what a Surface Drive is or a V drive is?

All I've ever known is an Inboard with a leg out the transom, an outboard, a jet and the new reverse "pulling" legs on the big yachts.

Someone mind brining me up to date with these terms?

Thanks,
Ryan

[timgoz]

Google it.

[Canaduke]

I have already google'd it but am still confused, most of the sites are commercial and don't provide a description, or they are extremely bias. I have been browsing the forums for some time now but I am just getting more and more confused so I registered to see if someone could clear it up. Also, What are the pro's and con's of either system? how do the costs differ?

Thanks,
Ryan

[timgoz]

Ryan,

I am no expert so forgive me for the brief descriptions.

The surface drives I am aware of are used on very high speed boats. Arneson drives are the most popular. Google that and the selections offered should be more specific. They use small high speed props. I think they actually run the props right at the surface, hence the name, with approx. half the prop out of the water.

V-drives simply have a sharp angle in the drive train. The engine actually sits over the props position. This allows the engine to be placed well aft of where a conventional inboard sits. One advantage would be a more open interiour.

I'm sure others can add to the above.

Welcome to the forum. Have a good Easter.

TGoz

[RANCHI OTTO]

Here you have 2 arrangements, one for a surface drive and the second for a vee-drive.

[Canaduke]

Ok, much clearer, thanks for the help Ranchi and timgoz.

Ryan