When purchasing an outboard motor one of the most important factors to consider is whether or not you need a short or long shaft outboard motor.

You must measure your transom in order to determine what shaft length motor you need. Keep in mind that the cavitation plate should be flush with the bottom of the boat. You can get away with an inch or two either way but it is wise to keep it close.

The shaft length is from the top of the mounting clamp bracket to the bottom of the cavatation plate. This measurement should equal the aft transom of your boat (give or take an inch).

The information on this page will explain the importance of shaft length and will give you an idea of what type of motor you should buy for your boating application.

If you are still unsure of what kind of shaft you need contact your boat manufacturer or look them up on the Internet. Do your own research before buying an outboard boat engine!