Outboard: port or starboard?

I am about to mount an outboard engine off centerline and need to choose which side. Most installations are port side, but I have seen starboard, too. Anyone know if there is a difference, and, if so, why?

 

Only reason I can see mounting an Outboard OFF - Center is to provide enough space for the Operator in a very narrow boat. The tiller arm is usually on the port side of the engine. Mounting the motor Off center will decrease thrust effeciency since the boat will tend to turn requiring the motor to be turned in order to maintain a straight course.

 

Balance

On sailboats with the rudder hinged to the transom the motor must go to one side or the other. Most go left to avoid interference with the rudder/tiller and the motor's tiller. Balance is also a consideration, if the driver normally sits on the stbd side steering with his left hand, hanging the engine on the port side gives them room to operate the engine and some counter balance. Another concern is access to the shifting lever. It is normally on the right side of the engine. Placing the engine on the stbd side, sitting on the left will make a long reach to get in/out of gear.

 

Good point Ken. I quess I only think in terms of power boats when outboard motors are mentioned.

 

How big is the boat and how big is the engine.