The R&D Marine Flexible Coupling consists of a flexible disc molded with a Polyester Elastomer. The disc gives clearance for bolt heads and is able to flex freely to take up any temporary misalignment of the engine and shaft due to flexing of the boat structure or the engine moving on its mount. Forward thrust is taken in compression on the disc between the two half couplings, and reverse thrust is taken again in compression on the disc between the two fail-safe straps. In the unlikely event of a severe impact, the steel straps make the coupling fail-safe and ensure the drive is maintained both forward and reverse.
Reduce Engine Noise & Transmission Vibration
Staggered bolts enable the element to isolate vibrations and compensate for some misalignment.
Reduces Costly Transmission Repairs
Absorbs shock loads due to hard gear changes.
Fits Most Major Transmissions
For engines, 5 to 1,500 horsepower. Fits brands such as Borg Warner, ZF-Hurth, Twin Disc, Volvo, Yanmar, Technodrive, and more.
Under Compression Load In Both Forward & Reverse
The aft steel strap bolted to the transmission acts as a backing plate to prevent reverse thrust from pulling the element apart.
Quick & Easy Installation
The R&D Marine Flexible Coupling requires no machining and comes supplied with bolts to connect between the two existing shaft flanges.
Extremely Durable
Impervious to saltwater, diesel, and lubrication oils. The Flexible Couplings are made from a polyester elastomer that is not affected by saltwater, diesel, or lubrication fluids.
Fail-Safe Design
A fail-safe design is incorporated in the R&D Flexible Shaft Coupling that prevents the two couplings from pulling apart in the event of an impact or element failure, whereas other couplings do not. This fail-safe design is accomplished by using two steel straps and thru-bolts going into both the shaft coupling and transmission output flange. The aft steel strap is bolted to the transmission output flange, and the front strap is bolted to the shaft coupling. In the event of an impact, the aft steel strap (bolted to the transmission) will catch the front steel strap (bolted to the shaft coupling) and prevent the drivetrain from pulling apart. The R&D element will absorb the shock load (reducing or eliminating damage to the transmission) and will maintain contact between the two couplings. The steel straps also keep the R&D Flex-Coupling under a compression load in both forward AND reverse operation (the aft strap bolted to the transmission acts as a backing plate).