What is one key feature of outboard engines?

One key feature of outboard engines is that they are portable and self-contained. This means that outboard engines can be easily mounted on and removed from a boat, allowing for flexibility in storage and maintenance. Their design includes both the engine and the propeller in a single unit that hangs off the transom of the boat, making them straightforward to transport and suitable for various types of vessels.

Being self-contained also means outboard engines have their own fuel tanks and controls, further enhancing their portability and convenience for smaller or recreational boats. This feature allows boaters to easily switch engines between different vessels or to remove the engine for repairs without having to handle the entire boat structure. In contrast, other engine types, such as inboard engines, are integrated into the hull, which limits portability and requires more complex installation and maintenance processes.