In this thread, we will look at how to install the new VORTEX STRUT into a cat or a MONO. Currently we are using this new RSA made STRUT on all our race boats; mainly for the superior reliability and reduced friction over bushed setups.

Keep an eye on this thread as we post pics and tips as we go.

Below is the pic of the complete drive.

To install the VORTEX drive you will need the following items:
1. 10mm OD nyloon tube
2. 10mm ID alum tube
3. Resin and cotton flock
4. A t-bar as in the pics
5. 4mm nipple

Take a look at the pics as they explain exactly how to do it.
The most important part is to slide the nylon tube about 30mm into the alum tube at the transom end and full length over the end near the engine.



The nylon tube is not glued into the alum tube. It should press in quite tight and this will make it water tight.

Tap a nipple into the alum tube for lubrication. Press a small piece a fuel line over the nipple that can hold oil to do the lubing. Only a small amount of oil is required.

By using the nylon tube, no brass tube needs to be used. This is especially useful with a cat installation, as the nylon tube moves with the strut easily as adjustments are made. The 10mm nylon tube fits snugly into the nose piece of the VORTEX strut. This is water tight and allows the bearings to be lubricated. The oil will not just run out the back, so little oil should be used.

Here is a pic of the transom of a MONO. Set the hight of the hole for the transom according to the manufacturer. For XXX and VECTOR it is 12.7mm. Cut a short piece of 10mm OD nylon tube and press it into the rear of the alum tube at the transom.

So at this point you have the main nylon tube going into the alum tube and then a small piece protruding out the back of the transom which the nose piece of the drive goes over. Everything should look like the pic below when done.

By using the nylon tube with the lubrication you will have a low resistance setup and boats speeds over 90 kph. In other words, this setup is just as fast, but more reliable than using a brass tube with a teflon insert.

The other major benefit, is that you will never have to worry about bushes wearing out and damaging the strut. The design of the VORTEX makes changing the bearings so easy. The bearings are free running and seem to last forever. It sure was one thing that did not give me a headache at the recently completed RSA nationals.

In 5 classes entered, we took home 9 trophies. With no failures over the 4 day event.