While some outboard-powered boats come equipped with ski pylons, retrofitting a pylon is quite complicated. However, we’ve tested the TurboSwing aboard two outboard boats and found that it is not only easy to install, but it also does a much better job of distributing the force of a skier, wakeboarder or tube rider than many pylon setups. Even better, it serves to help keep the line clear of the prop and even offers “bumper” protection around the dock. Increasingly, TurboSwings are found on service workboats to tow disabled vessels.
Sizes range to accommodate outboards ranging from 30 to 350 hp, with the larger sizes available for both single- and twin-engine configurations. Prices range from $485 to $1,199. We used the size XXL for our single 115 outboard. Here’s how we installed it.
Skill Level: 1/5
Finish Time: Approx. 2 Hours
Tools and Supplies
* TurboSwing size XXL for 100 to 250 hp ($699, turboswing.com), includes the hoop, brackets, mounting hardware, pulley, and eye bolts for locking the hoop in the brackets and securing the pulley with a bungee cord during trailering
* Power drill and 1/2-inch drill bit
* Socket wrench set
* Polyurethane sealant
* Cleanup rags
Drill the Holes
Remove the top engine mounting (port or starboard) nut and place the TurboSwing bracket over the bolt. Keep the bracket on top of the engine bracket. Choose the engine mount hole farthest from the existing engine bolt to drill a 1/2-inch hole for the bolt provided in the kit. Be sure there is clearance inside the transom to install the bolt. Drill the hole.
Bolt On the Bracket
Add sealant to the inside and outside of the original engine mounting bolt and insert the bolt from inside the transom through the engine bracket and the TurboSwing bracket. Wipe off the sealant, then tighten the nut. Squeeze sealant into the new hole you drilled and insert the TurboSwing bolt. Wipe off the excess sealant and tighten the nut in place. Repeat this process for the opposite side.
Mount the Tube Holders
Fit the plastic friction plate against the tube holder and mount the 5/16-inch bolt and the toothed nut to the plate, mating the teeth on the nut with the teeth on the plate. Use the highest position on the plate, giving the maximum rope clearance over the prop when the installation is completed. Fit the assembly to the bracket with the 1/2-inch-by-2-inch bolt and locking nut. Repeat on the opposite side.
Mount the Tube
Fit the pulley assembly on the tube. Trim the motor up and place the tube ends into the brackets with black nylon friction plates. Trim the motor its full range while taking care to prevent the motor from hitting the tube. If it does hit the tube, adjust the toothed bolts up or down to allow the motor to have full turning radius without touching the hoop. Once the ideal position is selected, adjust both brackets and tighten.
Pulley Stops and Eye Bolts
Without the adjustable pulley stops, the pulley could slide down the hoop and scratch the motor or jam in an unusable position. So turn the motor fully to one side and choose the position on each side of the tube where the pulley cannot strike the motor when it’s slack. Fasten the pulley stops there on both sides of the motor. Secure the tube ends with the eye bolts or carabiners.
