Description
PRM 500D hydraulic marine gearbox, gear ratio 2.90:1The PRM 500D marine gearbox is suitable for both recreational and commercial vessels. The transmission is a Drop-Center model, in which the output shaft is 126.7 mm lower than the input shaft. The gearbox’s dual-shaft design includes separate multi-plate clutches (friction plate packs) for forward and reverse travel. This design enables continuous transmission of full rated power in both directions of travel.
The PRM500 can be used with either a left- or right-rotating propeller when moving forward, making the PRM500 particularly well-suited for twin-engine installations.
Robust Construction
The gearbox housing is made of high-quality cast iron, and its internal reinforcement design increases rigidity and strength. The housing consists of two separate halves to facilitate maintenance. The oil pump and hydraulic control valves are mounted outside the housing, making them easily accessible.
Hydraulic Operation and Lubrication
The hydraulic transmission operates on standard lubricating oil with the same viscosity as the oil used in the engine, so automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is not required. The system ensures a quick response to control lever movements, resulting in excellent boat handling. The control lever has a distinct mechanical neutral lock position and is compatible with manufacturer-specific remote control systems.
Safe to Use
The transmission’s hydraulic system is robust and reliable by design, but to further enhance safety, it also includes a mechanical locking device. This ensures that, in the unlikely event of a hydraulic system failure, the vessel can be safely steered back to port. The lock is accessible through a removable cover located on top of the main gearbox housing.
Option for PTO Installation
A special feature of the PRM500 is the direct-drive power take-off (PTO), which is available as an option. It allows for the use of a Type B hydraulic pump compliant with the SAE J744C standard, providing an economical and space-efficient way to power the vessel’s hydraulic machinery and equipment.
Technical Specifications:
- Gear ratio: 2.90:1
- Power output (recreational boats): 6.19 hp/100 rpm
- Power output (light commercial use): 5.9 hp/100 rpm
- Drop-Center model, drop 126.7 mm
- Output shaft rotation during forward travel: RH or LH
- Input shaft splines: 17 TEETH 16/32 DP
- SAE mounting: SAE2, SAE3, SAE4, and B/W adapter plates available separately
- Maximum permissible instantaneous RPM: 4,500 rpm
- Maximum permissible continuous RPM: 4,000 rpm
- Weight: 68 kg
- Gearbox oil capacity: 2.5 liters + heat exchanger capacity
- Heat exchanger connections: 3/8" BSP
Operating pressure
Minimum – 18.27 bar (265 lb/in²), maximum – 22.06 bar (320 lb/in²). The top of the valve block has two 1/8" BSP threaded holes, and the side has an M18 threaded hole for installing a pressure gauge, if one is needed.
Oil Cooling
The normal operating temperature of the oil should be 50–80 °C, and the temperature must not be allowed to rise above 90 °C. An oil cooler is required to maintain the correct operating temperature. The valve block has two 3/8" BSP connections for installing the oil cooler.
Propeller Thrust
Both forward and reverse propeller thrust is transmitted to the output shaft bearings. The force exerted on the bearings is sufficient for all power ratings approved by the manufacturer.
Propeller Free Spinning
The output shaft of the PRM500D marine gearbox can be rotated continuously while the gearbox is in neutral and the engine is shut off. Therefore, a propeller shaft brake is not required.
Definitions of Service Categories – Pleasure Craft
Limited to planing-hull pleasure boats; operation at full throttle (maximum RPM) may not exceed 5% of the total operating time. The remainder of the operating time must not exceed 90% of the engine’s maximum RPM. The maximum permitted operating time is 500 hours per year. Selection of a PRM marine transmission in accordance with this classification for commercial use or for long-distance pleasure cruisers is not permitted.
Definitions of Operational Categories – Light Commercial
Vessels with planing or semi-planing hulls used for recreationalor commercial use may meet the requirements for light commercial use if the annual operating hours are less than 1,500 hours, full-throttle operation is limited, and the majority of operating time is spent at partial throttle.





