An L-drive is a type of azimuth thruster where the electric motor is mounted vertically, removing the second bevel gear from the drivetrain. Azimuth thruster pods can be rotated through a full 360 degrees, allowing for rapid changes in thrust direction and eliminating the need for a conventional rudder. This form of power transmission is called a L-drive because the rotary motion has to make one right angle turn, thus looking a bit like the letter "L". This name is used to make clear the arrangement of drive is different from Z-drive.

See also

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  • Azipod – Electric drive azimuth thruster
  • Propulsor – Mechanical device to propel a vessel
  • Z-drive – Steerable marine drive system
  • Cyclorotor – Perpendicular axis marine propulsion system
  • Outboard motor – Self-contained propulsion system for boats

Notes

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