Tomcat outboard rotating props!

[cmetzenberg]

I've never seen this on a tomcat but this one has props that rotate outwards! I wonder how it performs. Also the biggest engines i've seen on a Tomcat.

 

[Gulfcoast John]

Hmmm. If both props rotate 'outwards' then they are rotating in opposite directions like you'd expect, right? As far as which position the CR engine takes for best performance seems debated a bit.
Agree I haven't heard of C-Dory approving higher than 175 HP, 4-cyl repowers. When we repowered last year with new F150's, the F150, F175 (no longer available) and F200 were all the same block. We declined the F175/200 due to 91 octane requirement (hard to find in some areas). Also we've never felt the need for more power, ever. And Key Marine would not consider a higher HP repower unless C-Dory agreed, and they couldn't get an answer. We're still absolutely delighted with the new engines (Helmsman Option 2 Group, no AP or joystick). Yamaha builds and backs the all-Yamaha AP system, which I regard as a significant advantage no other outboard makers.

You found an interesting find!
John

 

[thataway]

The idea of counter rotating props is for better handling in heaver cats. (the port engine turns clockwise (right-handed) and the starboard engine turns counter-clockwise (left-handed). This is the way my Tom Cat was set up. It tends to push the bow down more than the conventional way props are reployed: Starboard engine right hand rotation and Port engine left hand rotation. The mount is on the Armstrong bracket, which is made of alumium, and should have no problem handing the extra power and torque of the 200 hp engine. The load on the transom from the bracket is spread out over the entire transom, and no specific small load points as one might have with eurotransoms, as the Tom Cat 24 has where the engine load and torque is focused right under the engine bolts.

Since the block on the 200 hp Suzuki is the same as on the 150 hp Suzuki in all respects, and the increase in HP has to do with fuel handling and valve timing, there is very little. operational difference between the two. In a boat out of warantee, I would have no problem going with the 200 hp. Is it necessary? I don't think so. The dual 150's give me top speeds in the high 40 mph range, and crusing in the 35 to 40 mph. The Suzuki 150-200 hp have a 2.5:1 gear ration, and can swing a larger prop than most other engines in that HP range. The prop has to be carefully selected for the Tom Cat to get the best combination of handling, leasts strain on the power train, speed and economy.