Sterndrive Launch
The Age
Friday April 23, 1993
Sterndrive is a form of propulsion preferred by some who use their boats on both inland and open waters so the boat maker Savage has decided to alter one of its outboard designs to a sterndrive.
Later this year, Savage will launch a sterndrive version of the Savage Challenger 5.5 SP.
The prototype of the 5.5 Savage Mako was developed following John Savage's visit to an American powerboat show. The American market long ago preferred the sterndrive for its boats, this system being simply an extension of the reliable car-engine inboard power to which the American boat users had become accustomed.
The sterndrive in the United States boomed at a time when outboard engines were still rather cranky and not up to today's far more reliable machines.
``I am convinced there is a market for sterndrives in Australia," said John Savage. He formed a joint venture with Volvo to ensure that the package of the boat and engine performed at a higher-than-usual standard.
The prototype Savage Mako was fitted with a Volvo 250/SP sterndrive.
The four-cylinder modified Volvo car engine developed 100kW at 5200rpm and few changes to the Mako were needed to accommodate it.
Engine bearers were glassed into the hull and a hinged cover opens forward while the hinged gunwale coaming opens aft to give total access to the engine. Small teak marlin platforms are fitted either side of the Penta sterndrive leg.
In far from ideal conditions on Port Phillip Bay the reached 66kmh at 5200rpm. The wide beam at the chines aft on the Mako gave the after sections the buoyancy needed for the heavy engine and drive unit while adding stability on turns.
Mr Savage claims the engine noise with the sterndrive unit is less than with an outboard motor of similar performance.
Lower fuel use with the car engine will appeal to those seeking lower running costs for their craft as fuel prices rise.
© 1993 The Age
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