The Saltwater Magazine for Gulf Coast Fishing!

FISHING FORECASTS | FISHING CALENDARS | ARTICLES | ADVERTISE | SUBSCRIBE

Search Gulf Coast Fisherman's Web Site
Past articles, specific places or fish, etc.

PSI Surface Drive

Surface Piercing Propellers Increase Control at Lower Speeds
For years, boaters with surface-piercing propellers have sacrificed low-speed control in order to increase speed and fuel efficiency. Now, optimum performance and maneuverability at all speeds are achievable for inboard engines paired with the 1250 SS Surface Drive from Ocean Technologies.

The 1250 SS offers advantages that rival a high-performance sterndrive to boats up to 26' long, and up to 300hp.

Unlike other systems, the innovative PSI Drive houses the outdrive in one contained unit. Connected to the gearbox by a universal joint, the entire housing moves when a prop needs trimming. The shaft trims just inside the transom. This allows the propeller to dig deeper into the water, for increased control at lower speeds. Maneuverability at these low speeds also makes it easier for boats to get and stay on plane, a traditional stumbling point for surface drives.

Under the transom, the water is pushed past distinctively shaped, offset rudders, to provide excellent stability in reverse, too. While running, the drive has the ability to adjust to water conditions. Additional advantages include reduced drag and shallow draft running capabilities.

The 1250 SS is a less complicated power system that can easily be maintained and retrofit with few boat modifications. Weighing only 170 pounds, all exposed parts are non-corrosive stainless steel or composite -2materials. By placing components like the hydraulic pump and motor inside the boat, the system has unmatched reliability and is less expensive. Since the unit is essentially water-cooled, there are no oil reservoirs to refill.

Covering the propeller blades, the housing doubles as a swim platform, making it safer for boaters and scuba divers. The non-skid finish assures access on/off the boat stays sure-footed. Noise is kept minimal by directing engine exhaust through the housing.

PSI Drives can produce up to 25% better performance than inboards with a 12' shaft angle, and up to 5% more than traditional sterndrives. Ocean Technologies offers six PSI Surface Drive models designed for power applications from 120hp to 1,600hp. A 1250 Dual Drive is also available for boats up to 42' in length with twin 300hp inboards.

Suggested retail price for the 1250 SS Pulse Drive is $13,100.

Contact Ocean Technologies, 1923 N.W. 40th Ct., Pompano Beach, FL 33064.

[ Articles | Home ]