Why I Chose the Solas RBX-125 Rubex Hub Kit For Evinrude/Johnson/Brp/Suzuki 90 115 Hp: A Hands-On Review
My trusty Evinrude E-TEC 90 HP outboard had been making an odd clunking sound when shifting, particularly noticeable when docking or maneuvering in tight quarters. It wasn’t a catastrophic failure, but the subtle vibration and the unsettling ‘thunk’ indicated something wasn’t quite right in the propeller hub. After years of pounding the waves across countless lakes and coastal areas, I knew it was time for a closer inspection and likely a replacement of the hub assembly. This is where the Solas RBX-125 Rubex Hub Kit For Evinrude/Johnson/Brp/Suzuki 90 115 Hp entered my considerations. It promised a robust solution to eliminate hub chatter and vibration, a critical factor for maintaining smooth operation and preventing potential damage.
What specifically drew me to this particular hub kit was its reputation for durability and its construction. Unlike some cheaper alternatives that rely heavily on plastic components that can degrade over time and under stress, the Rubex system features a one-piece rubber construction with anodized aluminum splines. This immediately struck me as a more reliable and long-lasting solution, especially considering the harsh marine environment. I recalled a previous experience where a plastic hub failed prematurely, leading to a frustrating day on the water and an unexpected tow. I wanted to avoid that entirely.
Upon receiving the Solas RBX-125 Rubex Hub Kit For Evinrude/Johnson/Brp/Suzuki 90 115 Hp, my initial impression was positive. The kit felt substantial, and the anodized aluminum splines had a clean, precise finish. The rubber compound of the hub itself felt firm yet pliable, suggesting it could absorb shock effectively. I had briefly considered a generic aftermarket replacement, but the specificity of the Solas Rubex system, designed to fit specific Evinrude/Johnson/BRP and Suzuki gearcases, gave me confidence in its compatibility. The immediate feeling was one of relief, coupled with a keen anticipation to see if this would finally put an end to that nagging clunk.
Real-World Testing: Putting Solas RBX-125 Rubex Hub Kit For Evinrude/Johnson/Brp/Suzuki 90 115 Hp to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing ground for this hub kit was my own well-maintained 18-foot aluminum fishing boat, powered by the aforementioned Evinrude E-TEC 90 HP outboard. The installation itself was straightforward, requiring basic tools and about 30 minutes of focused work in my garage workshop. The instructions provided were clear and concise, guiding me through the process of removing the old propeller and installing the new hub kit components.
The true test came the following weekend when I took the boat out on Lake Champlain. The first engagement of forward gear was met with a near-silent engagement, a stark contrast to the “clunk” I had grown accustomed to. Maneuvering through the marina, I intentionally tested the forward and reverse shifts repeatedly, and each time, the engagement was smooth and remarkably quiet. I also had a minor encounter with a submerged log at slow speed, and while I braced for an impact shock through the drivetrain, the Solas RBX-125 Rubex Hub Kit seemed to absorb a significant portion of it, minimizing the jarring sensation. This initial experience was incredibly satisfying and immediately validated my purchase.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple fishing trips, leisurely cruising, and some spirited runs across open water, the Rubex hub kit has continued to perform exceptionally well. I’ve noticed a significant reduction in prop vibration, especially at idle and lower RPMs, which contributes to a more comfortable ride overall. The “10 deflection” feature, while not something I actively observed, likely played a role in softening those minor impacts with unseen underwater debris.
Durability-wise, there are no visible signs of wear and tear. The anodized aluminum splines remain pristine, and the rubber hub shows no signs of cracking, hardening, or deformation, even after being exposed to varying water temperatures and the occasional splash of saltwater when I ventured into a tidal estuary. Maintenance has been minimal; a simple rinse with fresh water after saltwater use and occasional checks for debris are all that’s required. Compared to my previous generic hub, which started to feel slightly “mushy” after just a season, this Solas unit feels as solid and responsive as the day I installed it.
Breaking Down the Features of Solas RBX-125 Rubex Hub Kit For Evinrude/Johnson/Brp/Suzuki 90 115 Hp
Specifications
The Solas RBX-125 Rubex Hub Kit is engineered to fit specific Evinrude/Johnson/BRP and Suzuki outboards, specifically those with a 15 tooth spline and a 4-1/4″ Gearcase. This precise fit is crucial for optimal performance and to prevent slippage or damage. The core of the Rubex system is its one-piece rubber construction, which is designed to act as a dampener. This rubber is bonded to anodized aluminum splines, ensuring a secure and durable connection to the propeller shaft without the risk of plastic deterioration.
The notable “10 deflection” rating refers to the amount of angular play designed into the hub. This isn’t a precise measurement you’d quantify in a lab setting, but rather a design characteristic aimed at absorbing shock. This feature is intended to reduce the abruptness of gear engagement and cushion impacts from hitting submerged objects. The kit includes all necessary hardware for installation, making it a comprehensive package for a direct replacement. The reusability of the hub if the propeller itself is damaged is also a significant consideration for long-term value.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary job – eliminating hub chatter and vibration – this Solas Rubex hub kit excels. The difference was immediately noticeable. Gear engagement is significantly smoother and quieter, a welcome change from the jarring clunks I was experiencing before. The vibration dampening is also apparent, leading to a more refined feel at the helm, particularly at lower speeds and when trolling.
The primary strength of this hub kit lies in its robust construction and effective dampening capabilities. It directly addresses common issues of propeller hub chatter and excessive shock transfer. On the downside, the “10 deflection” is more of a conceptual feature than a precisely adjustable one; its effectiveness is dependent on the overall propeller and boat setup. However, for its intended purpose of providing a smoother, quieter, and more forgiving propeller engagement, it performs admirably, exceeding my expectations for a replacement hub.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Rubex hub is focused on functionality and durability. The combination of one-piece rubber construction and anodized aluminum splines is a testament to Solas’s commitment to quality materials. The rubber feels durable and resilient, suggesting it will withstand the rigors of marine use. The aluminum splines are precisely machined, ensuring a tight and secure fit onto the propeller shaft.
Ergonomically, the hub kit itself isn’t something you handle extensively once installed, but its design directly impacts the user’s experience at the controls. The reduction in vibration and the smoothness of gear engagement translate to a more comfortable and less fatiguing experience for the operator. The ease of installation, thanks to the clear instructions and well-made components, also contributes positively to the overall user experience.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience and the materials used, the Solas RBX-125 Rubex Hub Kit For Evinrude/Johnson/Brp/Suzuki 90 115 Hp is built for longevity. The anodized aluminum splines are resistant to corrosion and wear, while the one-piece rubber construction is designed to resist the degrading effects of saltwater, UV exposure, and fuel contamination better than lesser materials. I anticipate this hub kit will last for many seasons of regular use without issue.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. After each use in saltwater, a thorough rinse with freshwater is recommended to prevent salt buildup. Periodically checking the propeller and hub assembly for any debris or signs of damage is good practice. There are no complex parts to clean or lubricate; it’s a straightforward, robust component. Potential failure points would likely involve extreme impact that damages the propeller itself, but the hub’s design aims to absorb and mitigate such shocks.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RBX-125 Rubex Hub Kit itself is the accessory designed to enhance the performance of a propeller. It comes as a complete kit with all the necessary hardware for installation, meaning no additional purchases are typically required to fit it to a compatible propeller and outboard. There are no direct customization options for the hub kit itself; its design is fixed to serve its purpose of providing the intended deflection and dampening. However, its compatibility is crucial: it’s designed for specific propeller models that accommodate this type of hub system and for the aforementioned 15 tooth spline and 4-1/4″ Gearcase configurations on compatible outboards.
Pros and Cons of Solas RBX-125 Rubex Hub Kit For Evinrude/Johnson/Brp/Suzuki 90 115 Hp
Pros
- Significantly reduces or eliminates propeller hub chatter and vibration.
- Features one-piece rubber construction for enhanced durability and shock absorption.
- Utilizes anodized aluminum splines that resist corrosion and wear, unlike plastic alternatives.
- Offers 10 deflection to soften gear engagement and minor impacts.
- Includes all necessary hardware for a complete installation.
- The hub is reusable if the propeller itself is damaged.
- Designed for specific, popular outboard models, ensuring a proper fit.
Cons
- Requires a compatible propeller that accepts the Rubex hub system.
- The specific deflection rating is a design feature rather than a user-adjustable setting.
- Primarily designed for older Evinrude/Johnson/BRP and Suzuki models within a specific horsepower range.
Who Should Buy Solas RBX-125 Rubex Hub Kit For Evinrude/Johnson/Brp/Suzuki 90 115 Hp?
This hub kit is an excellent choice for owners of Evinrude/Johnson/BRP and Suzuki outboards, specifically those with the 90 and 115 HP 4-stroke engines (model years 2002-2007 for BRP, and various years for Suzuki as specified). If you’ve noticed unwanted vibration, clunking noises during gear shifts, or excessive shock when encountering underwater obstacles, this kit is a worthwhile investment. It’s ideal for recreational boaters, fishermen, and watersport enthusiasts who prioritize a smooth, quiet, and comfortable on-water experience.
Those who are looking for a durable, long-lasting replacement for a worn-out or damaged propeller hub will find this kit to be a superior option, especially over cheaper plastic alternatives. If your goal is to restore the original smooth engagement and reduce drivetrain stress, this Solas RBX-125 Rubex Hub Kit is a prime candidate. I would recommend that anyone experiencing the symptoms mentioned above consider this hub kit as a primary solution. For those running very high-performance boats or facing extreme operational demands, further research into specialized propeller and hub systems might be warranted, but for the vast majority of 90-115 HP applications, this is a solid choice.
Conclusion on Solas RBX-125 Rubex Hub Kit For Evinrude/Johnson/Brp/Suzuki 90 115 Hp
The Solas RBX-125 Rubex Hub Kit For Evinrude/Johnson/Brp/Suzuki 90 115 Hp has proven itself to be a high-quality, effective solution for common propeller hub issues. The noticeable reduction in vibration and the remarkably smoother gear engagement have significantly improved the overall feel and operation of my outboard. Its robust construction, featuring one-piece rubber construction and anodized aluminum splines, instills confidence in its durability and longevity, especially in the harsh marine environment.
Considering its performance and build quality, the price of $53.79 represents excellent value. It’s a relatively small investment to reclaim the smooth operation of your boat and potentially prevent more costly drivetrain damage down the line. I wholeheartedly recommend this hub kit to any owner of a compatible Evinrude/Johnson/BRP or Suzuki 90-115 HP outboard experiencing propeller hub chatter or clunky gear engagement. It’s a practical upgrade that delivers tangible improvements to the boating experience.