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Python-Drive

Posted: 1 February 2025
Python Drive – Vibration-Free Marine Driveline System | Lancing Marine

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.

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

Python Drive Section View

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.

Python-Drive Running Video Clip reference hansgremmen youtube channel

 

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 pricing please view our Price Book 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 downloadable sizing chart with torque ratings, thrust limits, and dimensional details.

Python Drive Sizing Schematic

Python-Drive Sizing Schematic

⬇ Download Sizing Chart (Excel)

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.

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.

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

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

Section view of Python Drive showing thrust bearing, CV joint and gearbox

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
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)

Contact & Support

To request a quote, confirm gearbox compatibility, or get installation advice, contact our technical team today.

Contact us at data@lancingmarine.com or visit our website for more information.

We're happy to help. Call +44 (01273) 410025

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