>> Yes, I agree and most use electric drive to transfer power to the prop.
 > 
 >JD> They do? Do you mean outside of submarines?
 > 
 > Yes, the turbo-electric drive. First adopted in the USA in 1908. The
 > main driving power is transferred magnetically across large air gaps.
 > Most warships of the 50's employed the system. The magnetic medium can
 > absorb shocks and is a simple reliable speed reduction without gears.
 > Nothing new here, trains use diesel-electric drive. Similar idea.
I'd sure like to see how a magnetic coupling can 'reduce speed without 
gears'. 
Do you have for-sure knowlege of ship drivelines made as you describe?
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