Help on jackshaft vs. inboard

[KCB]

I am considering the purchase of a CC 28. Where I boat, crab trap lines are a significant problem. As not to be diving, I was thinking that Volvo D4's mated to jackshaft sterndrives would be the way to go. That being said, can anybody tell me which drive system is more efficient or the pros and cons of each? Thanks for the help!

[jm1159]

The jackshaft system is great only if there are no other options, but I would never consider twin outdrives over inboards. I don't care how superior the Volvo drive is, I would never have $14K worth of hardware sitting in saltwater if I had the option to have straight inboards.

[Graceland]

Jackshafts are usually between 5% and 10% more efficient than a straight inboard. Conversely, you should find that straight inboards are a bit cheaper to purchase. If you leave the boat in the water the outdrives will give you many more maintenance headaches. Unless it's lift kept or trailered I would go straight inboard.