Abstract: A marine propulsion system comprising an engine, hydraulic pump, torque motor and propeller combination. The system is currently adaptable to diesel fuel operated engines. The hydraulic pump is a pressure compensating pump. The hydraulic pump a pressure relief value incorporated to minimize damage to the system due to propeller strikes. Engine and hydraulic pump operating controls/valves are included. Preferably, synthetic grade hydraulic fluid is used. The system is configured for use in any one of an inboard shaft drive configuration, an inboard/outboard motor configuration, an outboard motor configuration and a multi-propeller drive configuration.