More and more yacht builders install a saildrive
Contrary to a conventional shaft assembly, a saildrive does not require any alignment to ensure good efficiency and little vibrations. The fact that the thrust power is in the same sphere as the direction of the boat ensures an efficient propulsion mode.
A saildrive is utterly reliable, requires very little maintenance and can be equipped with a large selection of fixed or folding propellers. Contrary to older saildrive models, the Craftsman Marine saildrivefeatures a dual sealing diaphragm, ensuring that the risk of leakage is reduced to an absolute minimum. Should the outside diaphragm become damaged for some reason, the inside diaphragm will keep the boat completely dry. A water indicator provides an early warning against a possible leakage, in a convenient manner. Because of the low positioning of the cooling water openings, mostly clean water will be taken in. Even so, with this saildrive the use of a Craftsman Marine water strainer(AD.010.20019) is mandatory. The water flow is then easily visible and the risk of clogging in the cooling water circuit is avoided.
By installing a saildrive, positioning of the engine becomes much more flexible. When required, the engine can be installed behind the saildrive to make optimal use of the space available. In the case of e.g. a catamaran, the saildrive can also be supplied with a reversed reduction gear, so that a left-handed and a right-handed propeller can be fitted. In order to facilitate an optimal installation, Craftsman Marine offers a special universal foundation to be bonded into the boat.
The assets and advantages of a Craftsman Marine saildrive:
Dual sealing diaphragm with water indicator for maximum security.
Forward and backward installation are both possible.
Easy and simple installation, as well as very few vibrations, compared with a conventional shaft assembly.
A completely dry system. No water lubricated shaft.
High efficiency, on account of the thrust power running parallel with the propulsion direction.
Water inlet positioned at a low level prevents pollution of the cooling system.
No alignment whatsoever required.
Suitable for twin engine installations.