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Originally Posted by AQScarab
Does anyone know what "Surface piercing" outdrives are??
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Yes, Arneson drives are surface piercing, as were the Mercury SSM5's (which were shortened #SSM3A's), and the SSM6's.
The basic explanation is that with the prop shaft running on or about the surface of the water, the prop blades are out of the water about half the time thus reducing drag. That is until they pierce the surface of the water, hence the name Surface Piercing.
They work well but can have some issues getting up on plane and they also have some issues in reverse. Many of the big Magnums use surface piercing drives (Arnesons), and run very well. A number of very succesful race boats used Arneson's as well.