High performance sterndrives. Four-stroke outboards. Cleaner and meaner diesels. Before choosing the right engine for your boating lifestyle, check out the following pages for the new engines available on the market this year. We know you won't be disappointed!


MERCURY
Big black greets 2005 with several new offerings in its power agenda. Tournament anglers looking for a direct-fuel-injected engine with low emission ratings and high performance can now turn to the all-new Mercury OptiMax 225 Pro XS. Based on the company’s 3.0 L V6 block, this powerhouse comes with a 20-inch shaft length, 5,500-6,000 rpm operating-range and a 1.75:1 Torque Master gear case with heavy-duty gears and dual water pick-ups. Another added bonus is its low engine weight. The 225 tips the scale at 505 pounds, qualifying it to be one of the lightest engines in its class.

Mercury’s exclusive SmartCraft system comes standard, allowing users quick and easy engine, boat and environmental information. The system can also be used with upgraded gauges and the SC1000 or SC5000 System View LCD display. Some other features include a 60-amp/756-watt belt-driven, automotive-style alternator system that keeps batteries fully charged and marine electronics operating, even on a fully rigged bass boat.

Like the rest of the OptiMax family, the 225 is fuel efficient, offering a 45 per cent improved fuel economy over conventional two-strokes. It meets the Three-Star Ultra-Low rating from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) for 2008.

After receiving feedback from more than 1,000 boat owners, Mercury Marine went back to the drawing board to upgrade 20 models in its Alpha and Bravo series of sterndrives for 2005.

According to the company, the gear-shifting force will be reduced by approximately one third, while installation time is said to be cut by an impressive 30 per cent. In addition, the Alpha drives will feature a new management program to improve gear shifting and reduce noise and vibration. Gear shifting will also be improved on the Bravo line thanks to a more distinct neutral position, derived from a new shift lever and back cover. A new clutch mechanism has even been added to provide an 85 per cent reduction in shift-related noise and vibration.

All Bravo III drives will be given larger propeller thrust bearings and additional anodes. A new ribbed top cap on Bravo X models allows for more efficient cooling. (Page Top)

In the Mercury Racing division, high-performance enthusiasts are offered the HP1075 SCi sterndrive complete with the Mercury’s exclusive Propulsion Control Module (PCM) 03 microprocessor. In addition to a high-performing 557-cubic inch V8 cylinder block, engineers incorporated a pair of Lysholm twin-screw superchargers with multi-port fuel injection (two injectors per cylinder) to provide turn-key starting, overall running quality and smooth idling. In fact, with its 800 rpm idle speed, shifting in and out of gear is said to be seamless, allowing easier docking with less chance of stalling.

The twin-screw compressors sit on a corrosion-resistant charge-air cooler and Mercury Racing’s exclusive induction system. The engine has a low profile design that is eight inches shorter than the company’s proven HP900 hp SC Dry-Sump, helping reduce overall engine height and centre of gravity. The supercharger boost is variable, while the boost bypass control valve, which is electronically activated by the PCM 03 microprocessor, constantly adjusts the amount of boost needed for consistent horsepower. In optimum ambient situations, the control valve opens to adjust the required boost to obtain 1075 horses, while in sub-optimal running conditions and limited higher altitude environments the PCM 03 controller closes the bypass control valve to provide the required boost to maintain consistent 1075 horsepower. This ability offers consistent horsepower eliminating the hassle of re-propping the boat to match conditions.

The PCM 03 even offers individual cylinder control to optimize fuel, spark timing and knock, which enhances engine running quality, performance, fuel economy and overall durability. Eight independent ignition coils (one per cylinder) help eliminate spark plug fouling.

The PCM 03 also drives the exclusive Engine Guardian System, which monitors engine functions and alerts users of possible engine problems or damage. In the event of engine malfunction, the PCM 03 reduces power to continue operation. It helps prevent engine overheating by sensing engine temperature and water pressure.

Like many Mercury Racing Super Cat and Super V offshore engines, the 1075 incorporates a dry-sump lubrication system featuring three scavenge pumps and one pressure pump to keep oil off the crankshaft and reduce friction for enhanced power and performance.

A component found in the 1075 is a thermostatically-controlled, high-velocity cooling system utilizing a circulating pump, plus a three-stage sea pump to keep the engine at an optimal operating temperature and peak performance. Two stages feed cooling water to the engine block and cylinder heads while the third stage feeds the charger air cooler. (Page Top)

When it comes to cruising in populated areas, boaters will appreciate twin carbon fiber Helmholtz air inlet resonators in the supercharger to control induction noise levels. Twin flame arrestors, which also act as air filters, keep the engine’s air induction system clean and efficient.

Of course no high-performance engine from Mercury Racing would be complete without the company’s digital SmartCraft Controller Area Network (CAN) system. The SmartCraft system is a network of internal and external sensors that provide vital engine data including fuel flow, fuel range, fuel used, rpm, water depth, trim angle, water pressure and even battery voltage.

Mercury Racing also announced the launch of the all-new Bravo III XR drive. Once available only for racers or performance boaters, the Bravo III XR is now offered for recreational sport cruisers and boaters looking for a little more performance on the water. This counter-rotating, dual prop drive comes complete with a new cone clutch and shift engagement strategy plus the SmartCraft electronic engine management system for seamless gear shifting and easier docking with less chance of stalling.

As an option, the Bravo III XR drive is available with the Integrated Transom System (ITS), designed to enhance drive flexibility and simplify installation. The ITS comes complete with power steering cylinders and trim and steering cylinders mounted to a heavy-duty gimbal ring that transfers stress back to the transom increasing strength and durability.

For more Information about Mercury Racing’s line of performance driven products or the company’s recreational sterndrives and outboards visit www.mercurymarine.com.

VOLVO PENTA
The hot news from Volvo Penta this year is the launch of its impressive D9 diesel engine.

This in-line six-cylinder powerhouse combines high performance characteristics with low exhaust and noise emissions to provide owners of flybridge boats, sport cruisers and sport fishermen an optimum choice of power.

One of the highlights of the D9 is its compact size. The D9 is no larger than the company’s 7 L TAMD75, but offers almost 100 horses more and has a 30 per cent greater cylinder volume.

The D9 features a new turbo system designed to deliver increased torque, rapid acceleration and low load sensitivity at cruise speed. The high torque is provided by the combination of its large cylinder volume and electronically controlled unit injectors. In fact, the twin-entry, centre-mounted turbo creates pulse charging and powers each exhaust pulse to produce charge pressure, enabling the engine to respond very quickly at low rpms. And while the charge-air cooling is highly effective, it creates a low temperature in the intake air, which is a key feature to qualify for low emission levels. The turbo is supplemented by electronically controlled unit injectors, which produce an optimum fuel-to-air ratio. Four-valve technology also helps ensure an efficient flow of gas. (Page Top)

The D9’s electronic control system, the EMS 2, was designed to meet stringent emission requirements and incorporated in the D9 to monitor and control additional engine functions faster and more efficiently. The results are quick responses to user commands, low fuel consumption and minimal exhaust emissions. This system also monitors the condition of the piston rings plus the level of cooling fluid.

Engine, controls and instruments are all integrated with the company’s new Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) system. Based on CAN bus technology, EVC offers easier installation, improved operating reliability and uses a single serial data cable, replacing the traditional cables required for instruments and controls. Electronic control for shift and throttle is standard. The D9 is available with different reverse gears including straight axle and V-drive configurations. Both versions feature electronically controlled gearshifts that are integrated with the engine through the EVC system. With the low-speed slip option, the transmission makes it possible to creep, which is ideal for maneuvering into a harbor or trolling.

In addition to its solid construction, the D9 has a fully cast cylinder head and special ladder frame bolted on the bottom of the block for added durability. Its in-line six-cylinder configuration also allows space for a well-dimensioned crankshaft with large bearing surfaces to produce low vibrations.

In late 2003, Volvo Penta introduced its D3-160 Sport Diesel, a high-performing powerhouse complete with the company’s Aquamatic drive. This year the D3-160 engine is available with a Duoprop drive to further improve performance and offer twin installation for sport cruisers up to approximately 30 feet.

The D3 is an in-line five-cylinder engine, constructed of aluminum and features the electronically controlled common rail fuel injection system, variable geometry turbo and four-valve technology to provide optimum performance with very low exhaust emissions.
Other diesel offerings from Volvo Penta this year include the D4-210/260, D6-280/310/370 plus the D6 280/310/350 and the D4 210/260 Diesel Aquamatics.

For more information on Volvo Penta’s complete line of marine engines visit www.volvopenta.com. (Page Top)

YANMAR MARINE
Yanmar Marine offers a full line of diesel inboards to fit a wide variety of marine applications, from 21 hp engines for sailboats to 900 hp monsters for high performance offshore craft. But of all the offerings in the company’s 2005 lineup, perhaps none is as exciting as the LPA series, ranging from 260 to 315 hp. In fact, they’ve become the standard engine in a number of new family cruisers and offshore fishing boats, including the Luhrs 30 Open Sports.

The lightweight six-cylinder LPA engines boast overhead cams, four valves per cylinder, an intercooled fuel cooler and a waste-gated, water-cooled turbocharger for awesome throttle response. Fuel economy is excellent thanks to the incorporation of specially-designed pistons and dual-stage fuel injectors, which also provide sharp acceleration. Vibration is almost negligible as a result of its fully balanced crankshaft and rubber engine mounts. The engines are also surprisingly compact, yet easy to service.

For larger vessels, Yanmar offers its CX series of inboard diesels, including models of 485 hp and 500 hp. Using the company’s lightweight construction technology, these engines incorporate a longer stroke design and an aggressive turbocharger with aftercooling to produce higher horsepower, a greater top speed and superb fuel efficiency. Like the LPA line, the six-cylinder CX series power plants feature four valves per cylinder and an extra high-pressure fuel injection system to generate enormous power. Turbocharged and after-cooled, they are available with or without a marine transmission.

Information about Yanmar’s engine line can be found at www.yanmarmarine.com.

CRUSADER ENGINES
After the introduction of its impressive Captain’s Choice series of gas-powered sterndrives at the turn of the 2001, Crusader has never looked back. This year, the company continues to serve up power with the Captain’s Choice 6.0 L 385 hp MPI, a welcome addition to any engine compartment on a sport cruiser or fishing yacht.

Claimed to be lighter, powerful and more compact that any engine in its class, this sterndrive is based on GM’s 6.0-liter Vortec engine that powers the Hummer H2 and other GM SUVs and heavy-duty trucks. An HO exhaust system and high-performing aluminum heads mean the 6.0 L can crank out every little bit of available horsepower, while the aluminum heads help provide optimum fuel efficiency.

The 6.0 L is also maintenance-friendly, offering platinum-tipped spark plugs that provide long intervals between changes. The added serpentine belt system with auto-tension make it easier to inspect or change the impeller. Sophisticated fuel injectors protect the fuel control cell, a patented fuel delivery and filtering system that ensures precise delivery while preventing fuel starvation and/or vapour lock. (Page Top)

Rounding out the 6.0L is what Crusader calls its Vibra-Free mounting system, which is micro-adjustable to provide precise engine alignment and a smooth ride.

Other offerings in the company’s power line include a calibrated 330 hp Captain’s Choice 5.7L MPI, 5.0L 275 hp multi-port fuel-injected inboard plus an 8.1 L MPI offering more than 500 pounds of torque. The company also offers the 8.1 L which cranks out 425 horses.

More information about Crusader’s engines can be found at www.crusaderenginesr.com.

SUZUKI MARINE
For 2005, Suzuki continues to please recreational boaters with a long line of robust four-stroke outboards. At the top of the power chain are the DF200, DF225 and DF250 hp four-stroke engines. These models were so impressive they first earned the highly regarded NMMA Innovation Award in the Engines/Motors /Propulsion category in 2003.

All three models feature a 55-degree (the narrowest in the industry) V6, dual overhead cam (DOHC), 24-valve powerhead, digital sequential electronic fuel injection plus Suzuki's multi-point electronic fuel injection, which are all controlled by an advanced 32-bit on-board computer. By constantly monitoring a network of sensors including manifold pressure, crankshaft position, intake air temperature, cylinder wall temperature, and exhaust temperature, the computer instantly adjusts the EFI system for optimum performance in all conditions.

The system also improves fuel efficiency across the operating range and reduces exhaust emissions to meet the 3-star Ultra Low Emissions rating from the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Suzuki even combines what is called a two-stage gear reduction system with a beefy lower unit to provide a gear ratio of 2.29:1, which is claimed to be the lowest of any two–or four-stroke outboard over 200 horsepower.

The largest model this series is the DF250, which utilizes an aggressive cam profile and the company’s variable valve timing, an exclusive feature which continuously adjusts intake timing for stronger low- and mid-range torque, improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. Multi-Stage Induction is also used on the DF250 (as well as the DF225) to enhance engine performance by changing the methods of airflow at different speeds. By using two intake manifold runners per cylinder (one long and curved and the other one short and straight), the optimum amount of fuel/air charge is delivered at low speed, wide open throttle or anywhere in between. (Page Top)

This family of four-strokes is maintenance-friendly, too. For instance, the flywheel has fan blades designed to expel warm air out from under the engine cowl, while the engine oil lubrication system is water-cooled and features piston-cooling jets that spray a fine, precise stream of oil onto the underside of each piston. Another jet shoots a stream of oil on the main cam chain and drive gear, keeping these components cool and lubricated.

Anglers will be happy to know that each model features a high-output 54-amp alternator specifically designed to provide the majority of its power at a low rpm (32 amps at 1,000 rpm) to run bait pumps, depth sounders, chart plotters or other marine electronics. Suzuki's DF250 and DF225 are available with 25-inch or 30-inch shaft lengths, while the DF200 is available with a 25-inch shaft.

Suzuki’s four-stroke line also includes a 90 hp, 115 hp and 140 hp. All feature a compact size, superior power-to-weight ratio and optimum performance. Some main features include an offset driveshaft for improved balance, dual overhead cams with four valves per cylinder plus a water-cooled intake system, water-cooled fuel rail and an oil-bathed, self adjusting timing chain.

For a complete list of Suzuki outboards for 2005 visit www.suzuki.com.

NISSAN MARINE
Nissan Marine heads into the 2005 power year with an all-new 90 hp outboard using its Two-Stroke Low Pressure Direct-Injection technology (TLDI) plus a 9.8 hp four-stroke outboard.

Nissan’s 90 TLDI just shines of innovative technology. Its low-pressure direct injection system features a low-pressure air fuel delivery system providing three-cylinder power in a two-stroke engine. As fuel is shattered into microscopic droplets, the fuel plume is positioned in the optimum location in the combustion chamber. This is claimed to provide better fuel efficiency, improved mileage and reduced emissions. In fact, the 90 TLDI complies with US Environmental Protection Agency 2006 and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) 2007 regulations (2-star rating).

It also hosts what Nissan calls a variable auto-mixing oil injection system, which automatically increases the oil-to-fuel ratio as the rpm rise. If the oil level is too low or the engine is showing signs of potential overheating, the 90 TLDI sets off a series of warning protection sensors with audible alerts. (Page Top)

Other models in this line include the 40 TLDI, 50 TLDI and 70 TLDI, each complete with the company’s 3+1 year limited warranty.

Nissan also offers the 9.8 hp four-stroke. Claimed to be the lightest outboard in this class, weighing 81.5 pounds, this compact two-cylinder, SOHC engine is ideal for a variety of small to medium-sized boats, including inflatables, yacht tenders, or smaller aluminum fishing and pontoon boats. Its lightweight and compact design also makes it suitable to use as a kicker motor for fishing boats.

The 9.8 provides a quiet ride thanks to a high-capacity air silencer. Vibration is reduced with the dynamically balanced crankshaft and newly designed upper rubber mounts. Like other models in the Nissan line, the 9.8 complies with the US EPA 2006 & CARB 2008 (3-star rating) emission regulations plus great fuel economy as company tests revealed the 9.8 hp consumed only one gallon of fuel per hour at wide-open throttle.

Nissan offers the 9.8 with recoil starting on both electric start and remote control models. An optional 12V, six amp alternator is also available.

For a complete list of Nissan Marine’s offerings go to www.nissanmarine.com.

EVINRUDE
After introducing its ever-impressive E-TEC line ranging from 40 to 90 horses, the industry took a double-take after Evinrude turned around and introduced a whole new series of V6 E-TEC heavyweights, including the 200, 225 and 250 plus the 225 and 250 High Output models.

All models are available in fresh and saltwater configurations and are claimed to be cleaner, quieter, easier to operate and require less maintenance than any other outboard engine on the market. Each model is built on a 3.3 L 90-degree V6 block offering the ultimate in power and performance. According to Evinrude, these E-TEC outboards consume approximately 50 per cent less oil than traditional direct injection systems and up to 75 per cent less than traditional two-strokes. They also eliminate the disposal of dirty oil and filters since oil or filter changes are not necessary.

The engines also eliminate the use of such conventional components as belts, powerhead gears, cams and mechanized oil pumps. Instead, they replaced these components with many new, reliable performance innovations. For instance, the Engine Management Module (EMM), E Start and Auto-Lubing combine to provide fewer moving parts allowing no scheduled dealer maintenance for three years (or 300 hours), no break-in periods or even winterization procedures. The E-Start system is also designed to fire within one revolution, ensuring a quick start while the EMM onboard computer fully controls a stratified start up to optimize engine performance. (Page Top)

Its advanced cooling system and extra capacity water pump ensure optimum engine operation temperature. Tough, over-size components, including specially NASA-developed alloy pistons, enhance overall engine strength. The engines utilize the company’s DeepGuard corrosion protection package to ensure engine longevity.

Another unique system is Speed Adjusting Failsafe Electronics (S.A.F.E.), an information and alarm system, which tells the engine to go into low speed mode in the event of an emergency in order to prevent damage.

Each model produces whisper-quiet signature sound thanks to an exclusive sound suppression system. A moulded foam inner liner optimizes depth and coverage of the acoustic treatment in both the upper and lower motor covers, while an air silencer is designed to reduce airborne sound.

Some other highlights include a variable voltage, computer-controlled alternator providing 50 amps of electrical power, and a freshwater flushing port.

This year, keep an eye out for a new mid-range model, the 60 E-TEC. This engine features an in-line two-stroke platform designed to provide optimum power in a light, compact package. Sharing the same quality features as the rest of the E-TEC family, the 60 E-TEC is CARB 3 compliant with ultra-low emission ratings, while its direct-injection system offers reliable operation, efficient fuel economy and smooth power across the operating range. It also features S.A.F.E., a freshwater flushing port and a variable voltage computer-controlled alternator to charge onboard batteries or use marine electronics.

More information on the E-TEC line of outboards can be found at www.evinrude.com.

JOHNSON
For 2005, Johnson fills the gap between its 9.9 hp and 4 hp with the all-new 6 hp. The Johnson 6 hp is a four-stroke, one-cylinder, inline overhead valve engine available in 15 or 20-inch shaft lengths. It meets the EPA emission standards for 2006, the CARB 3-Star standard, and has an operating range of 4,750 to 5,750 rpm. It has a six-amp alternator, tiller handle and manual trim/tilt with a shallow water drive.

Johnson also offers a complete range of four and two-stroke outboards ranging from 3.5 hp to 175 hp in its two-stroke class and from 4 hp to 225 hp in its four-stroke class.

Returning this year are Johnson’s 200 and 225 hp four-strokes. Both models share a four-stroke, 55-degree V6 DOHC engine with four valves per cylinder and an impressive operating range of 5,500 to 6,000 rpm. A digital sequential multi-port electronic fuel-injection system offers a precise fuel mix plus smooth, fast acceleration and excellent fuel economy. They also meet the 2006 EPA emission standards and the 3-Star CARB emission standards. Other benefits include power trim and tilt, a 54-amp alternator, electric starting and remote steering.

For more information on Johnson products checkout www.johnson.com (Page Top)

YAMAHA
Yamaha stepped up its four-stroke power choices this year with the all-new V6 F250 hp.

Featuring a 60-degree 3.3-liter 24-valve DOHC engine block, the F250 boasts the same power characteristics as the impressive F225 hp introduced in 2002, but incorporates the company’s Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) to increase low and midrange torque for added performance.

Yamaha notes the VCT is a revolutionary new system, as a variable camshaft rotates in both directions to advance and retard the intake camshafts to vary the intake timing, increasing volumetric efficiency to increase low and midrange torque for quicker planing times on larger offshore fishing boats.

The system works with Yamaha’s Engine Control Module (ECM) that directs the oil control valve to supply oil inside the Variable Camshaft Actuator. It advances and retards the camshaft timing based on the F250’s rpm. When fully advanced, the camshaft advances 40 degrees, opens, then closes the intake valves sooner and places the combustion chamber in valve overlap position, increasing intake and exhaust efficiency. The intake valve also closes sooner to help build higher combustion-chamber pressure resulting in greater volumetric efficiency. The result is a 16 per cent increase in torque in the 2,000 to 3,500 rpm range.

The F250 comes complete with Yamaha’s exclusive in-bank exhaust system, featuring large diameter intake valves that deliver the air-fuel mixture to the combustion chamber more efficiently. The exhaust pressure reduction system reduces exhaust pressures to increase output while cooling the hub on the prop.

The new VCT houses an all-new, electronically controlled, single throttle valve intake system. When combined with a long intake manifold, users are offered reduced intake noise and more power. The large air intake silencer reduces engine noise with the help of a labyrinth exhaust system and water-sealed outer walls in the engine's midsection. With the in-bank exhaust system, exhaust gases are water-cooled and vented straight down and out through the prop.

In addition to featuring lightweight forged pistons and specially heat-treated crankshaft and connecting rods for additional durability and strength, a single-belt drive system uses fewer moving parts for long-term durability. Longevity is provided by auto belt tensioners to maintain the ideal belt tension, while a flywheel dampener reduces crankshaft vibration for smoother operation and less wear on internal components.

The engine is based on a double-overhead cam design for greater valve timing control. Four valves per cylinder provide clean, powerful combustion. A blow-by gas reburning system removes any unburned fuel from the exhaust gases, and reroutes it back into the fuel delivery system to be burned more efficiently.

Controlling all this technology is the company’s Engine Control Module (ECM), which receives input from eight sensors placed around the engine. While the ECM uses this data to calculate the precise fuel/air mixture to each combustion chamber depending on load and speed, it also warns the operator of impending problems. The warning system includes overheat warning, over-rev prevention, low-oil pressure warning, neutral throttle limiter and start-in-gear prevention.

Its multiport fuel injection, which provides the proper fuel mixture in all weather conditions, allows the engine to start quickly and the idle speed controller is directed by the ECM, providing immediate starts, stable idle and smooth slow trolling speeds.

An added bonus is the front-mounted freshwater flushing device that hooks up to a standard garden hose. Some other highlights of the F250 include a 45-amp marine alternator plus a wide-range power trim and tilt that raises from -3 degrees to +16. The F250 also meets and exceeds the 2006 Federal EPA emission standards plus the 2008 California Air Resources Board (CARB) emission standards. (Page Top)

Other offerings from Yamaha this year include the electronic fuel-injected F75 and F90 four-stroke outboards and the F90 Jet Drive. Designed for mid-size boats, these engines are designed to offer smooth operation and improved fuel economy. The F90 is available in a 25-inch shaft model for compatible installation on a wider variety of boats.

All models feature a hefty 1.6-liter in-line four-cylinder powerhead, plus a double overhead cam designed for greater valve timing control. Four valves per cylinder provide clean, powerful combustion while its combustion efficiency affords better fuel economy and plenty of torque in the low to midrange. The models feature the company’s direct-drive design that eliminates rocker arms plus the need for adjustments, reducing maintenance. Yamaha's system uses a design that connects the valve operation to the cam resulting in fewer moving parts, less weight and maintenance, and increased reliability.

Like all Yamaha four-stroke outboards, these midrange models come with Yamaha's three-year factory limited warranty.

For more information about Yamaha’s line of outboards, visit yamaha-motor.com

HONDA MARINE
Honda’s selection of power this year includes a complete range of ultra-quiet four-stroke engines ranging from 2 hp to the ever-powerful V6 BF225 hp outboard. Of particular interest is the BF150 hp four-stroke. The BF150 hp is based on a 2.4L four-cylinder engine - the same one used in Honda’s CR-V, Element and Accord automobiles.

The powerhead utilizes what Honda calls a compact Engine Control Unit (ECU) that works with the exclusive variable timing and lift control as well as the Dual Stage Induction system (DSI) to offer an incredibly wide powerband. It boasts the proven 16-valve VTEC dual-overhead cam design featuring an intake cam and an additional lobe and rocker for each cylinder. What this means is during operation below 4,300 rpm, the rockers and outer lobes provide the optimal air-fuel mixture to deliver low end torque and the middle rocker arm floats up and down on a high lift, long duration lobe, providing increased valve lift and duration to increase air flow.

Overheating is prevented by the twin thermostats featured on the block, cylinder head and three over heat sensors, including one on the exhaust manifold and the external oil cooler. In fact, according to the company, this reduces the operating oil temperature by more than 15 per cent.

Anglers will appreciate the benefits of the BF150’s alternator, which can produce 50 amps of power above 3,000 rpm with 44 amps still available to charge batteries and operate marine electronics.

A light-weight cowling, which is considered to be the lightest in the industry, easy-to-reach-spark plugs, a front-mounted flushing device and removable side covers make the BF150 extremely user-friendly. To top it off, the BF150 exceeds the US CARB emission regulations for 2008.

For more information on Honda’s complete line of four-strokes visit wwwhondamarine.com.

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