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Writer's pictureMike Hill

What is an Outboard Nose Cone?

Updated: Nov 25

An outboard nose cone is a streamlined, hydrodynamic device that attaches to the front of the lower unit (gearcase) of an outboard motor. Its primary purpose is to provide a low water pick-up to reduce drag and improve the performance of the boat, especially at higher speeds. Here are some key points about outboard nose cones:


  • Improved Hydrodynamics: The nose cone is designed to improve the water flow around the lower unit, reducing turbulence and drag. This helps the boat move more efficiently through the water.


  • Higher Speed Stability: At higher speeds, the addition of a nose cone can improve the stability and handling of the boat. This is particularly beneficial for high-performance boats, such as racing boats or bass boats, where maintaining control at speed is crucial.


  • Water Intake Location: Many nose cones are equipped with low water pickups, which allow the engine to be mounted higher on the transom without risking overheating. This is because the low water pickups are positioned to still draw water even when the lower unit is closer to the surface, which can be common in high-performance setups.


  • Increased Propeller Efficiency: By streamlining the water flow, a nose cone can help reduce cavitation (when air bubbles form around the propeller blades) and improve the propeller's grip on the water, resulting in better thrust and fuel efficiency.


  • Customization and Tuning: Nose cones are often used in conjunction with other performance modifications, such as propeller selection and engine height adjustments, to fine-tune the boat's performance for specific applications.


Overall, an outboard nose cone is a useful upgrade for boaters looking to optimize their engine's performance and handling characteristics, particularly at high speeds.



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