What size outboard jet do I need?
Here is a safe guideline for selecting the right-sized engine: You need a ratio of 1 horsepower for every 25 pounds your craft will be pushing. Use the engine powerhead rating, not the jet rating, when using this calculation. For example, a 60/40 jet engine will effectively bring 1,500 pounds of gross weight on plane.
What is the smallest outboard with a jet?
The smallest motor that you can convert to a jet is a 25hp, which is rated at 20.
What is a Mercury jet outboard?
Mercury® jet-drive outboards are specifically designed to pilot boats in shallow waters where propeller-driven hulls are unable to operate. Because there’s no lower unit extending below the hull, the jet drive permits passage over obstacles that would restrict access to a propeller-driven outboard boat.
How shallow can a jet drive outboard run?
about six inches
The more clean, un aerated water the pump receives, the better it performs. Keep in mind that the intake is pointed down and somewhat angled forward so you really cant run in less than about six inches of water for any length of time without the jet loosing serious power on most boats.
Can you convert prop to jet drive?
Surprisingly, it only takes about an hour to change from prop to jet, for anyone who knows which end of a screwdriver to hold. Some outboard owners claim that after a few tries, they can do it in less than half an hour.
Are jet drive outboards any good?
As mentioned above, they’re great in shallow waters, but inboard jets can also be backed up on to beaches given the absence of any protruding parts including rudders. At very high speeds jet drives have been documented as being more efficient than props, and they’re certainly quicker to accelerate.
Do outboard jet motors have reverse?
-There is no reverse. -You lose about 15% max power compared to a prop. -You should consider a tunnel hull if you go jet.
Do you need a tunnel hull for a jet outboard?
A properly designed tunnel, combined with a slight V bottom hull can greatly enhance jet boat performance. It should raise the motor 2-3 inches and place the heel of the jet intake flush or slightly above the bottom of the boat. A jet tunnel doesn’t work well with a flat bottom boat due to air ingestion.
How much does it cost to convert a prop to a jet?
Most people don’t know this, but many outboards can be converted to jet propulsion for between $1,700 and $2,700, depending on their size.
Are jet outboards faster?
The jet is the least expensive, accelerates fastest, is easy to operate and has a clever lounging area, but it’s thirsty and noisier. In this comparison, we think styling is really the only reason to choose the sterndrive-powered boat. We say, “Wise up, America!” and buy the outboard boat engine.
What is better prop or jet?
Propeller propulsion has much better fuel efficiency than jet boats (more on how much better later in the article). Most propeller boats perform much better in rough water because they stay lower and cut through the waves. Propeller boats make a much cleaner wake than jet boats.
Can you leave a jet boat in fresh water?
You can leave in the water but should have shore power connected if leaving in the water for any substantial period of time like over a week. Taking the plugs out is a good idea. You should rinse them off after every use to make sure crud and buildup does not lock them in place over time.