Python-Drive – Vibration-Free Marine Driveline System

Python-Drive is a complete anti-vibration shaft coupling system that simplifies installation, protects gearboxes, and dramatically reduces driveline noise. Ideal for new builds, refits, and Aquadrive replacements, it's trusted by OEMs and commercial operators worldwide for reliable, quiet propulsion. Python-Drive prices

Dramatically Reduce Vibration and Driveline Stress

The Python-Drive flexible coupling system is a complete solution for improving comfort, protecting your drivetrain, and simplifying marine engine installation. It isolates the propeller thrust from the engine and transmission, and eliminates vibration through the use of a constant velocity shaft and a hull-mounted thrust bearing unit.

Designed for smooth, quiet propulsion, Python-Drive systems help reduce noise and stress in any marine powertrain, making them ideal for both new builds and refits.

Lancing Marine is a leading UK distributor and technical support centre for Python-Drive systems.

The System

The Python-Drive system includes three main components working together:

1. Soft Engine Mounts (optional): Reduce vibration transfer from the engine to the hull.
2. Constant Velocity (CV) Shaft: Transmits torque while allowing for movement in all directions, removing the need for precise engine alignment.
3. Thrust Bearing Unit: Bolts to a load-bearing hull structure and absorbs all axial thrust from the propeller shaft, protecting the transmission.

Ideal for New Builds and Refits

Section view of Python-Drive showing Shaft, Thrust Bearing, CV Joint and Gearbox Coupling

Applications

1. Motor yachts and pleasure craft: Enhances onboard comfort by reducing vibration and cabin noise, ideal for cruising and leisure environments.
2. Workboats and fishing vessels: Improves driveline durability and reduces maintenance in demanding commercial conditions and variable loads.
3. Pilot and patrol boats: Handles continuous operation and rapid throttle changes with stable alignment and thrust management.
4. Riverboats and narrowboats: Provides quiet propulsion and easy integration in tight engine rooms and shallow-draft installations.
5. Custom or OEM driveline configurations: Modular, space-efficient design allows flexible integration in bespoke and production marine propulsion systems.

Product Development History

Python-Drive was first introduced by Dintra in August 1996 with three initial models: P50-S, P80-T, and P130-W. These early systems used rear-mounted clamp couplings integrated into the thrust block. In 1997, Python-Drive evolved with the introduction of internal clamp couplings, offering a modular and more adaptable product range. This allowed for higher torque transmission and expanded the product line to suit more powerful engines and commercial-grade applications.

From 1996 to 1997, early models lacked metal end covers on the CV joints. These design characteristics help distinguish first-generation units. The range has consistently followed a clear model naming system:

1. 'P' for Python-Drive
2. Followed by 2–4 digits indicating torque rating
3. A final letter (e.g., S, T, W) designates thrust bearing size
4. Prefix 'PD' indicates a complete thrust bearing unit

Example: A model labeled P80-S40-4" HU includes a 195 mm CV shaft, a PD-S thrust bearing unit for a Ø40 mm shaft, and a 4” standard adaptor flange for common marine gearboxes.

Over the years, older models like P140, P200, P350, and P500 (using fixed disc CV joints) have been phased out in favor of modern plunging-type CV systems with end covers—providing better performance, quieter operation, and easier alignment. Today, larger models such as P750, P1025, and P1500 continue to serve high-power applications with fixed disc designs where appropriate.

Python-Drive remains trusted by OEMs and commercial operators globally for its consistent innovation and long-term reliability.

Model Range & Specifications

Model	Shaft Torque	Prop Thrust	Shaft Diameter	Example Application
P30-R	294 Nm	4.4 kN	19 - 30 mm	50 Hp / 3000rpm 2.5:1
P60-B	588 Nm	5.7 kN	25 - 40 mm	70 Hp / 2600rpm 3.5:1
P60-K	588 Nm	5.7 kN	25 - 40 mm	70 Hp / 2600rpm 3.5:1
P80-M	785 Nm	8.0 kN	30 - 45 mm	105 Hp / 3000rpm 3:1
P80-S	785 Nm	12.0 kN	30 - 45 mm	130 Hp / 3400rpm 2:1
P110-S	1080 Nm	12.0 kN	30 - 45 mm	135 Hp / 2700rpm 3:1
P110-T	1080 Nm	18.0 kN	35 - 50 mm	180 Hp / 2400rpm 2:1
P140-T	1370 Nm	18.0 kN	40 - 55 mm	190 Hp / 3400rpm 2:1
P200-T	1960 Nm	18.0 kN	40 - 60 mm	240 Hp / 2300rpm 2.5:1
P200-Q	1960 Nm	22.0 kN	40 - 60 mm	250 Hp / 2800rpm 3:1
P200-W	1960 Nm	30.0 kN	50 - 60 mm	275 Hp / 2500rpm 2.5:1
P501-Q	4900 Nm	22.0 kN	50 - 60 mm	137 Hp / 3400rpm 2:1
P501-W	4900Nm	30.0 kN	50 - 80 mm	400 Hp / 2200rpm 3:1
P501-L	4900 Nm	45.0 kN	50 - 80 mm	500 Hp / 2200rpm 3:1
P755-L	7355 Nm	45.0 kN	70 - 80 mm	600 Hp / 2200rpm 3:1
P1025-L	9810 Nm	45/0 kN	70 - 80 mm	750 Hp / 2000rpm 3:1
P1025-G	9810 Nm	60.0 kN	70 - 100 mm	800 Hp / 1900rpm 3:1
P1500-G	14715 Nm	60.0 kN	80 - 100 mm	950 Hp / 1900rpm 3:1

For Python-Drive prices please select Page-64. 

⬇ Download + Dimensions

 

Python-Drive Sizing & Selection

Choosing the correct Python-Drive model depends on your shaft diameter, engine power, and installation space. To assist with model selection and driveline planning, we provide a excel tool to assist with straight forward Python-Drive selection based on Torque rating from engine maximum power and speed, thrust limits, and dimensional details.

⬇ Download Excel Selection Tool

 

Python-Drive Sizing Schematic

Python-Drive is well suited to engine rooms where space is limited or alignment is difficult. It simplifies installation, removes the need for realignment over time, and reduces wear on transmission and shaft bearings.

Python-Drive Weights by Model

The following table provides approximate weights per component and complete unit, excluding packing. Useful for estimating transport costs.

Total Unit	Total Weight (kg)	Thrust Bearing Unit	Weight (kg)	CV Drive Shaft	Weight (kg)	Adaptor Flange	Weight (kg)
P30-R	9.5	PD-R	3.5	P30	4.5	5"	1.5
P60-B	10	PD-B	4	P60-145	4.5	5"	1.5
P60-K	13	PD-K	6	P60	4.5	6"	2.5
P80-M	16.5	PD-M	9	P80	5	6"	2.5
P80-S	17.5	PD-S	10	P80	5	6"	2.5
P110-T	21.5	PD-T (basis P110)	13.5	P110	5.5	6"	2.5
P140-T	24	PD-T (basis P140)	13.5	P140	8	6"	2.5
P200-T	39.5	PD-T (basis P200)	21	P200	14.5	6"	4
P200-Q	39	PD-Q (basis P200)	20.5	P200	14.5	6"	4
P200-W	45	PD-W (basis P200)	26.5	P200	14.5	6"	4
P501-Q	69	PD-Q (basis P501)	28	P501	29	7.25"	12
P501-W	85	PD-W (basis P501)	44	P501	29	7.25"	12
P501-L	85	PD-L (basis P501)	44	P501	29	7.25"	12
P755-L	102	PD-L (basis P755)	46	P755	43	7.25"	11
P1025-L	131	PD-L (basis P1025)	54	P1025	52	10"	25
P1025-G	171	PD-G (basis P1025)	94	P1025	52	10"	25

CV Drive Shaft Lengths

Python-Drives are availabe with the following Standard Lengths and optional Longer CV Drive Shaft lengths.Custom lenght individually tailored shafts for all models are available upon request.

Available Shaft Diameters

Python-Drive systems are available in a wide range of metric and imperial shaft diameters. Metric shafts typically increase in 5 mm steps (e.g. 20, 25, 30 mm), while imperial sizes begin at ¾” (0.75") and go up to 4”. Wherever possible, we recommend using standard sizes to avoid the need for custom bushings or inserts.

Model	Metric Diameters (mm)	Imperial Diameters (inches)
P30-R / PD-R	20, 25, 30	0.75”, 0.875”, 1”, 1.125”
P60-B / PD-B	35, 40	1.25”, 1.375”, 1.5”
P60-K / PD-K	30, 35, 40 (25 mm on request)	1.125”, 1.25”, 1.375”, 1.5”
P80-M / P80-S / P110-S / PD-M / PD-S	30, 35, 40, 45	1.25”, 1.375”, 1.5”, 1.75”
P110-T / P140-T / PD-T (for P110/P140)	35 (P110 only), 40, 45, 50, 55 (P140 only)	1.5”, 1.75”, 2”
P200-T / P200-Q / P200-W *	40, 45, 50, 55, 60	1.75”, 2”, 2.125”, 2.25”
P501-Q	45, 50 (with extra clamp), 55, 60	2”, 2.125”, 2.25”
P501-W / P501-L / P750-L	60, 65, 70, 75, 80	2.375”, 2.5”, 2.75”, 3”
P755-L / P1000-L / P1025-L	60, 65, 70, 75, 80	2.375”, 2.5”, 2.75”, 3”
P1000-G / P1025-G / P1500-G	70 up to 100	2.75”, 3”, 3.5”, 4”

We do make specials for out-of-standard applications and shaft diameters. In some cases, a bushing must be fitted inside the clamp, which adds to the cost. To minimise costs and lead time, please use standard sizes where possible.

* Special PD-W thrust bearing units are available for shaft sizes up to Ø 80 mm in combination with the P200 CV drive shaft.

Model	Standard Lengths	Longer CV Drive Shafts
P30-R	145, 165, 195 mm	500, 750, 1000 mm
P60	145, 165, 195 mm	500, 750, 1000 mm
P80	145, 165, 195 mm	500, 750, 1000 mm
P110	110 mm	500, 750, 1000 mm
P140	110 mm	500, 750, 1000 mm
P200	255 mm	500, 1000 mm
P501	221, 260 mm	490, 990 mm
P755	352 +/- 12mm	Custom Option
P1025	352 +/- 12mm	Custom Option
P1500-G	352 +/- 12mm	Custom Option

TVA (Torsional Vibration Analysis) Data

Torsional Vibration Analysis (TVA) is a crucial step in marine driveline engineering. It helps assess the dynamic behavior of rotating components, ensuring that the driveline is free from harmful vibration resonances at operating speeds. Proper TVA prevents premature wear, reduces noise, and extends the lifespan of the propulsion system.

Below is the technical data required to conduct a TVA for Python-Drive CV shafts, including weight, inertia moment, and torsional stiffness for both standard lengths and per 100 mm length increments.

Model CV Drive Shaft	On Basis of Standard Length			Supplement per 100 mm Length
	Weight (kg)	Inertia Moment (kg·m²)	Torsional Stiffness (kNm/rad)	Weight (kg)	Inertia Moment (kg·m²)	Torsional Stiffness (kNm/rad)
P60 – 165 mm *	4.4	0.0048	47.1	0.42	0.00004	36.1
P110 – 180 mm	5.3	0.0073	49.7	0.48	0.00005	48.6
P140 – 180 mm	7.8	0.0136	61.4	0.58	0.00007	74.1
P200 – 255 mm	14.5	0.0340	209.1	1.25	0.00032	324.4
P501 – 221 mm	25.0	0.1090	367.4	1.80	0.00066	672.6

Note: Since the P30, P60, and P80 use identical CV joints, only one execution (P60) is listed. Data for different shaft lengths can be calculated by adjusting with the supplement values per 100 mm listed above.

TVA data for larger CV drive shafts is available on request. Please contact us at data@lancingmarine.com for further technical assistance.

Aquadrive Replacement Shafts

Aquadrive compatable CV Drive Shafts are available from Python-Drives extensive stocks ready to ship. In addition we provide a rebuild and refresh service should this be required.

Standard Lengths	Python-Drive Compatability
Replacement CV drive shaft for  Aquadrive 20.100    net length 173 mm.	PCV20.100 can replace AQ20.100
Replacement CV drive shaft for  Aquadrive CVB15   net length 180 mm. or  225 mm.	P110 can replace (End covers FoC)
Replacement CV drive shaft for  Aquadrive CVB21   net length 210 mm. or  275 mm.	PCV21-and PCV-275 can replace
Replacement CV drive shaft for  Aquadrive CVB30   net length 255 mm.	P200 can replace VVB30
Replacement CV drive shaft for  Aquadrive CVB42   net length 221 mm. or  260 mm.	P501 can replace CVB42

Python-Drive Kit Components & Spare Parts

Python-Drive assembly kit – includes thrust bearing, CV shaft, mounts, hardware and alignment components

Each Python-Drive system is supplied as a complete pre-engineered kit, including the constant velocity (CV) joint shaft, hull-mounted thrust bearing unit, fasteners, bushings, and installation hardware. The layout is designed for intuitive fitting and long-term durability, with modular components for easy maintenance or future servicing.

We also maintain extensive factory stock of Python-Drive systems and spare parts, ensuring fast availability for both new installations and in-service support. Whether you need a complete unit, a replacement bearing, or individual components such as mounts or CV joints, we can supply them promptly to keep your vessel running smoothly.

Python-Drive systems are supported with genuine replacement parts direct from the manufacturer, offering peace of mind for owners, boatbuilders, and commercial operators alike.

Spare Part Assemblies and Components - Select for Price.
Rubber block of thrust bearing	Boot kit (without bolt kit)
Complete mounting kit for thrust bearing unit	Boot kit (with bolt kit)
Hub	CV joint + circlip
Clamp coupling	CV Joint + end cover + boot kit + circlip + grease + ½ fastener kit
Hub + Clamp Assembly	Intermediate shaft (standard length)
Replacement bearing	Complete fastener kit for CV drive shaft
Bearing housing + bearing + circlip	Intermediate shaft (standard length)
Set of oil seals	Complete fastener kit for CV drive shaft
End cover for CV joint	Grease for one CV joint
Gasket for end cover/boot	Stud kit for adaptor flange (M10 or M12)
Separate rubber boot	Stud kit for adaptor flange (M16 or M20)

Spare Parts Reference for Python-Drive & Python-MEGAFLEX

Use the image and reference letters below to determine what spare parts you need and what to expect when ordering. Most parts are available as complete assemblies or separate items.

Spare Parts Key:

1. A. Bearing housing (just the housing itself in regular Python-Drive colours)
2. B. Bearing (pre-greased, maintenance-free)
3. C. Mounting kit for thrust bearing unit (contains bolts, nuts, washers, and thrust rubbers)
4. D. Hub (plain hub in Python-Drive colours) ready to fit; matched for prop shaft diameter of your choice
5. E. Internal clamp coupling (includes bolts and complete unit)
6. F. Intermediate shaft (plain shaft with splines on both ends)
7. G. Boot kit (contains rubber-metal boot and coloured 'O' ring or band)
8. H. Plain CV joint (includes inner disc, cage, balls, and inner core)
9. I. Gearbox adaptor flange (includes stud bolts and nuts for gearbox connection)
10. J. Circlip for hub
11. K. Circlip for bearing housing (not in PD-R/B/K/IM)
12. L. Mounting kit for CV drive shaft (contains bolts, locking washers, and under plates)
13. M. Mounting kit for adaptor flange (contains bolts or studs and locking washers)
14. N. End cover for CV joint

Note: Prices are given upon request. We do not have price lists for spare parts readily available.

General Guidelines:

1. All Python-Drive parts can be ordered as individual components or as part of economical kits.
2. A bolt kit is available for mounting a CV drive shaft — includes all bolts and hardware specific to the shaft model.
3. Bearings for PD-Q, PD-L, and PD-G require special attention and hydraulic press tools for replacement.
4. When replacing a bearing in PD-D, PD-K, or PD-M, it is pressed out of the housing (other models use circlips).
5. Replacing a bearing usually also requires new oil seals — plan accordingly.
6. If the CV joint is worn or has spline wear, replacing the shaft is typically more cost-effective than attempting repairs.
7. Boot kits and CV joints are available separately — if shaft wear is uneven, replacement is recommended.
8. When ordering, always provide:
   1. Model of shaft and thrust unit (e.g. P80-S, PD-M)
   2. Diameter of the prop shaft
   3. Diameter and bolt circle of gearbox adaptor flange
   4. Working length between adaptors (if known)

If you’re unsure which components you need, contact our technical support team at data@lancingmarine.com for help.