Tech Tip: Converting Your Outboard Lower Unit to a Jet Drive

So you want to take your boat upriver. That can be tough on the on traditional outboard lower unit. Many boaters prefer to convert their standard propeller driven outboard to outboard jet drive. Jet boats are able to travel across shallow sections of river without damage to the drive.

Salmon and steelhead fisherman in our area use outboard jets to reach fish holding areas inaccessible to traditional powerboats.

We sell outboard jet units to fit Yamaha outboards, Mercury outboards, Evinrude ETEC outboards, Johnson outboards, Honda outboards, as well as Tohatsu and Nissan outboards.

Converting your traditional propeller driven outboard to outboard jet is a relatively easy task. The main consideration is the requirement to remount your outboard 5 to 6 inches higher to facilitate the shallow running outboard jet drive. This can be done with an outboard jack plate or transom bracket. This method will allow you to change the outboard jet back to propeller drive as required for conditions. Many boaters desire the different performance characteristics of the propeller driven outboard when operating offshore in deeper water.

Operating and performance characteristics are different with outboard jet units as compared to traditional propeller driven outboard. An outboard jet motor will rev higher and have a lower top end speed. In addition, the careful when first operating your outboard jet. You'll notice that when you back off on the throttle the boat will continue slide forward and not slow down as with the propeller driven outboard. You'll need to slow down sooner and anticipate the slide distance of your boat. These changes in maneuverability of the outboard jet boat are acceptable when compared to the boat's ability to traverse water only inches deep.

Need help with an Outboard Jet question or fitment? Use our Rainboat Contact page.