Diesels are all the rage, four-strokes are slimmer and more powerful, while two-strokes are cleaner and deliver top performance where it counts. Fishing, cruising, skiing or tubing, these hefty transom warriors pack a punch to offer unlimited excitement all season.

Big YANMAR
This year, Yanmar Marine introduces three new engines in its series of electronic control diesels, the 6LY3A-ETP, 6LY3-STP and 6LY3-UTP.There’s no shortage of power when it comes to these powerhouses.

The 6LY3-STP offers 440 horses and the 6LY3-UTP can crank out 380 horses (both at 3,300 rpm), qualifying them as some of the top choices for motoryachts or trawlers. The 24-valve, in-line-six engines are highlighted with the company’s new electronic governing system, which is designed to provide consistent power (up to 50ºC) and synchronize engine speed with twin installations for increased torque and optimum fuel economy. Synchronization for triple installations is currently in the works. Exhaust emissions have also been decreased and both engines meet the California Air Resources Board (CARB) emission standards for 2008. Information from the electronic control system is displayed on a multi-function Yanmar LCD at the helm. The display unit, (which is factory pre-set), provides engine speed, percentage load, hours, battery voltage, coolant temperature, fuel usage rate, fuel level, along with boost and oil pressures. Sixteen alarm indicators and an active command window are also included. Another feature is a new transmission, which can be packaged with Yanmar engines by Kanzaki hydraulic KMH series gears that afford quick, smooth engaging along with electric trolling and optimum torque handling.

Yanmar also offers its 6LY3A-ETP electronic control diesel engine. Sharing many features with the other models in this series, the 6LY3A-ETP is rated at 480 hp at 3,300 rpm and houses a compact, turbocharged, intercooled in-line-six engine with four valves per cylinder. It provides constant power regulation and easily synchronizes engine speeds with twin or triple installations. The fuel delivery system also offers improved economy, plus reduced noise at idle and decreased smoke and fuel odor.

For more information visit www.yanmarmarine.com (Page Top)

ILMOR
If you’re a recreational boater or a poker run enthusiast looking for a little more muscle at the transom, you may want to opt for Ilmor Marine Engine’s MV-10 625 hp Poker Run Edition. Based out of Plymouth, Michigan, Ilmor is no stranger to the performance crowd, on and off the water.

In fact, the long-standing engine builder has earned countless bragging rights, winning more the 140 Indycar race victories, 120 pole positions, seven manufacturer’s titles and 10 of 15 Indy 500 Memorial Day Classic spectacles. The company is also making impressive rounds in the Formula One arena with its Ilmor-designed and manufactured Mercedes engines, which powered McLaren-Mercedes driver, Mika Hakkinen, to the 1998 and 1999 World Driver’s titles.

The MV-10 625 hp has an impressive weight of 800 pounds and has been completely re-tooled to easily fit tight engine bays. The 625 hp 10-cylinder powerhouse is a normally-aspirated engine and stands true to its name. It offers a full 625 bhp, an overwhelming 600 pounds-feet of torque and is geared to deliver smooth idling and performance at all operating ranges (up to 6,000 rpm).

All this performance is delivered from precision cast aluminum block and heads, a fully-balanced forged steel and precision-machined crankshaft, closed loop idle air control plus multipoint electronic fuel injection featuring an integral fuel water separator. Some other benefits include a JTEC engine management ignition system with knock control and a 138-amp alternator. Multiple drives are available.

For more information visit www.ilmor.com (Page Top)

EVINRUDE
Evinrude fills the need for speed this year with several new engines including the 115 hp and 130 hp V4 E-TECs, and 150 hp, 175 hp and 200 hp V6 E-TECs.

Like all the models in the E-TEC line, these latest entries are available in salt or fresh water models and are designed to be cleaner, quieter, and require less maintenance than other engines in its class. In fact, they don’t require maintenance for the first three years or 300 hours of use.

Since there are no belts, chains, powerhead gears, cams or mechanical oil pumps, boaters can worry less about high-friction problems and enjoy more time on the water. The E-TEC system also eliminates break-in periods, allowing users to hit full throttle right after purchase. When time comes for haul out, the E-TECs automatically winterize.

The backbone of all the models are the large, durable components such as the rods, cylinders, heads, intake system, reeds, fuel delivery, fasteners and cooling system. There’s also no need to worry about disturbing your neighbours while running full throttle thanks to the three-dimensional acoustic enhancer, air silencer and Helmholtz resonator located inside the branch intake that reduces noise.

The company also claims the E-TECs use 50 percent less oil than other direct-injection engines, 75 percent less oil over two-stroke carbureted engines and 30 percent less oil compared to four-stroke engines. An interesting feature is its auto-lube oiling system, which eliminates the mixing of oil and gas while complete combustion prevents oil from escaping. Inside the E-TEC outboards, fuel reaches the exhaust port only after the port has been closed. This means fuel charges never escape the combustion chamber as it is burned and turned into pure power. The system senses when to change the delivery of fuel into the chamber and only uses what it needs. This results in precise fuel flow and optimum fuel efficiency. The E-TECs comply with the EPA, the European Union standards plus the California Air Resources Board (CARB) emission standards.

For anglers and recreational boaters who run pontoon or aluminum fishing boats, Evinrude offers its 115 hp and 130 hp 60-degree V4 E-TECs. These entries weigh an impressive 369 pounds, feature a slim, compact profile and are available in 20- or 25-inch shaft lengths. Both engines have an operating range of 5,500-6,000 rpm and are available in remote starting or manual tiller models.

The 115 has a net dedicated battery charging power of 25 amps, while the 130 hp provides a net dedicated battery charging power of 50 amps, each offering more than enough juice to run onboard electronics. Both models also share a gear ratio of 2.0:1, a pressure and temperature controlled water cooling system and FasTrak power trim and tilt. A highlight on the 130 hp E-TEC (as well as the 200 hp E-TEC) is an exclusive variable exhaust control valve that’s designed deliver more low end power and performance.

If you’re looking for more power, check out Evinrude’s 150 hp, 175 hp, and 200 hp V6 engines. In addition to offering an operating range of 4,750-5,750 rpm, each engine has a gear ratio of 1.86:1, net dedicated battery charging output of 50 amps, remote steering and a weight of 419 pounds. They’re also available in 20- or 25-inch shaft lengths.

For more information visit www.evinrude.com (Page Top)

JOHNSON
While Bombardier Recrea-tional Products will no longer produce Johnson’s four-stroke engines ranging from 40 to 225 hp, recreational boaters are still offered tried and true performance with a series of four-strokes, along with a family of two-strokes.

The 30 hp and 25 hp four-strokes will hit the water this year with cleaner and meaner technology that surpass the strictest emissions regulations and deliver the power when duty calls.

Ideal for smaller aluminum boats or pontoons, the 30 hp and 25 hp host several features including digital sequential multi-port fuel injection for excellent throttle response and fuel economy plus a pulse-tuned manifold for solid acceleration. There’s also a solid state ignition to ensure quick starts and a power tilt and trim system for added performance and control.

Both engines come equipped with a three-cylinder, in-line SOHC with two valves per cylinder and have a gear ratio of 2.09:1. While the 25 hp offers an operating range of 5,000-6,000 rpm, the 30 hp speed range stretches from 5,500 to 6,100 rpm.

At the top of Johnson’s two-stroke family are the 150 and 175 hp outboards. Quality starts with a series corrosion-fighting systems including sacrificial anodes, stainless steel parts, plus the exclusive Deep Guard corrosion protection with Electro Deposition Paint.

Both engines are built on 60-degree V-6 block, house the company’s exclusive PowerPath fuel induction system and feature a 1.85:1 gear ratio. They also boast a displacement of 2,589 cc’s and a bore and stroke of 3.600 x 2.588 inches.

Other models from Johnson include the 4 hp, 6 hp, 9.9 hp, 15 hp four-strokes while the 115 hp, 90 hp, 15 hp, 9.9 hp, and 3.5 hp two-strokes are also available.

For more information visit www.johnson.com (Page Top)

NISSAN MARINE
Nissan builds on its series of two-stroke Low-Pressure Direct Injection (TLDI) outboards this year with the all-new 115 hp. Quick acceleration, quiet engine operation and excellent fuel economy are just a few of the key characteristics that will appeal to recreational boaters.

As fuel is shattered into microscopic droplets, the fuel plume is positioned in an optimum location in the combustion chamber. This means fuel burns more completely and provides improved efficiency, mileage and reduced emissions. It also means the engine meets the 2006 EPA emission standards plus the California Air Resources Board (CARB) emission standards through to 2007.

The 115 hp is easy to maintain. It doesn’t require oil changes or valve adjustments and a featured onboard self-diagnosis system alerts users of overheating, over-revving (at 6,000 rpm), extreme water temperature and low oil levels. There’s also a warning light for battery voltage plus a safety stop switch and lanyard-mounted cut-off switch. A five-layer corrosion-protection system is designed to increase the engine’s life and a start-in-gear-protection system adds another element of safety. CD ignition, power trim/tilt, and a thermostatically-controlled cooling system are other highlights.

Nissan also launches a pair of new four-strokes, the 30 hp and 25 hp highlighting EFI technology.

Along with a 2 hp and 3.5 hp four-strokes, which replace Nissan’s 2.5 and 3.5 two-stroke engines.

For more information visit www.nissanmarine.com (Page Top)

MERCURY
While big news is scheduled to unfold at the Miami International Boat Show in February, what we can report about is the launch of an all-new OptiMax 225 Pro XS. Based on Merc’s impressive 3.0 L V6 block, the 225 has a 1.75:1 Torque Master gear case with hefty gears and dual water pickups, which easily qualifies it to be used for tournament fishing or conditions when speed and power is priority.

The 225 is also transom-friendly. It tips the scales at just 505 pounds (making it the lightest engine in its class) and its compact size allows it to fit a variety of transoms in single, twin or triple configurations. Twenty or 25-inch shaft lengths are available.

There’s no need to worry about fuel consumption either. The 225 is claimed to surpass fuel economy over two-strokes by up to 45 percent and it’s low emission levels easily earn the Three-Star ultra-low emissions rating from the California Air Resources Board (CARB).

Like many outboards in the Mercury family, the 225 is designed to be used with the proven SmartCraft system, providing boaters with vital engine and boat data. The system easily works in conjunction with the company’s extensive line of gauges, as well as the SC1000 or SC5000 System View displays.

On the other end of Mercury’s power spectrum are the new 1.6-litre 75 and 90 hp Mercury EFI four-strokes. Both entries are engineered with a single throttle-body, multi-point fuel injection system that utilizes a single mechanical fuel pump and lifts the fuel to the engines’ vapor separator. This provides a steady supply of pressurized fuel for the fuel rail, resulting in quick acceleration and consistent performance across the operating range.

No matter when a trip is planned, the engines’ EFI system allows quick starting in cold, wet conditions or hot, humid weather. Once underway, users will appreciate consistent, quick throttle response while at top speed or when docking. They are also designed to be slightly more fuel-efficient than carbureted engines thanks to the precise fuel metering by the onboard microprocessor that distributes just the right amount of fuel at the right time. These outboards also meet the 3-Star Ultra-Low emissions rating from the California Air Resources Board (CARB).

Other new EFI offerings include the 25 and 30 hp four-strokes.

While the 25 hp and 30 hp sport a hefty a 526 cc power head, you won’t wake up the lake with its noise-suppressing cowl and induction system. The engines are available with manual- or electric-start systems and the manual-start version is an industry first in this EFI four-stroke class. The 25 hp engine is also the first EFI in its class. They easily meet the 3-Star Ultra-Low rated by the California Air Resources Board and are available in 15- and 20-inch shaft lengths.

Mercury’s popular Verado four-stroke series also expands this year with three new contenders, the 135 hp, 150 hp and 175 hp. Designed for anglers and recreational boaters, the Verados are built on a 1.7 L, inline four-cylinder platform with dual overhead cams and four valves per cylinder. They also incorporate a bedplate-and-longbolt design that’s often utilized in Formula 1 race cars.

An electronically controlled sequential multi-port fuel injection system provides optimum turn-key starting, smooth and efficient operation and combined with the patented sound-dampening technology, chances are you’ll see the boat moving at top speed before hearing the engine.

Instantaneous throttle response is easily controllable and enhanced by the Mercury’s SmartCraft Digital Throttle & Shift (DTS), which uses a data cable (rather than a mechanical “push/pull” cables) to allow smooth, precise shifts. All Verados meet the 3-Star Ultra-Low emissions standards by the California Air Resources Board. (Page Top)

In the MerCruiser division, the company has made significant changes to its Alpha and Bravo Drives to make them even more user-friendly and efficient. For instance, these drives now have a new clutch design, which is designed for smoother shifting, reduced noise and decreased vibration. There’s also a new internal-clutch shift lever and a redesigned back cover to provide a substantial neutral position. Also expect to see modified thrust bearings on the Bravo III drives and new ribbed top caps on the X models, which enhance engine cooling.

Changes to the Alpha drives include a revised engine-management programming system and easier shifting for the MPI models.

MerCruiser’s popular Digital Throttle and Shift system (DTS) is now available as an option for its small V8 powerhouses, including the 5.0 L MPI, 350 MAG MPI and MX 6.2 L MPI (with Bravo stern drive packages). The DTS is even available with the inboard versions of the 350 MAG MPI and MX 6.2 L MPI.

From Mercury Racing comes the power-proven 600 SCi. Replacing the 575 SCi, the 600 is designed with a clean sheet induction system highlighting custom intake manifolds with an internally O-ring flange sealed intercooler that is constructed of a copper-nickel alloy (Cupro-Nickel) to provide excellent optimum corrosion resistance.

The 600 SCi comes packaged with the PCM 03 microprocessor, combining a 3.3 Liter Lysholm screw type supercharger, roller camshaft and sequential fuel injection for first-rate idling, instant throttle response and consistent performance across its 4,800-5,200 rpm operating range.

Another feature on the 600 SCi is a PCM idle speed control for ultra-smooth shifting when equipped with the Bravo XR drive. It optimizes fuel, spark timing and knock control for each cylinder and enhances engine running quality, performance, fuel economy and durability. Other new components include an electric fuel pump, a fuel cooling system and mechanical pump to combat vapor lock. There’s also a custom billet aluminum housing to improve packaging, reduce fuel connections, and accommodate a fuel pressure regulator.

The supercharger boost on the 600 is variable and a boost bypass control valve (electronically activated by the PCM 03 microprocessor) continuously adjusts the amount of boost needed to provide on-demand power. Under optimum ambient conditions, the boost bypass control valve opens and adjusts for the lower boost required to achieve 600 crankshaft horsepower. The PCM then closes the bypass control valve to offer the required torque and additional power to maintain consistent 600 horsepower (when operating in sub-optimal running conditions and limited higher altitude environments). Another new engine this year includes the 850 SCi, which is based off the 1075 SCi. (Page Top)

Some other big news for 2006 includes the all-new Enertia propeller, unveiled at the 2005 International Boatbuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) last fall. The propeller is cast from Mercury’s exclusive X7 Alloy and is said to be four times more durable and 30 percent stronger than conventional stainless steel props. It also boasts thinner blades plus a higher rake angle to improve acceleration and top speed. Enertia is available in one-inch pitch increments from 14 to 22 inches in standard rotation. Counter-rotating models are also available in 15-, 17-, 19- and 21-inch pitches to accommodate twin- and triple-engine installations.

For more information visit www.mercurymarine.com

VOLVO PENTA
Volvo Penta has been pleasing recreational boaters with its D3 series of diesel engines since its inception in the marine industry two years ago. For 2006, the company builds on this line with the D3-190 hp Sport Diesel, an all-new contender available in I/O or stern drive models.

The D3 190 is a 2.3 L, five-cylinder, in-line powerhouse with a compact design to accommodate mid-cabin cruisers and smaller sport fishing vessels. According to company performance sea trials, the 190 hp delivers an impressive crankshaft rating of 190 hp at 4,000 rpm. Another key feature is its lightweight. With its aluminum-base construction, the 190 has a low displacement of 720 pounds, which is less than conventional gasoline stern drives and only approximately 100 pounds more than outboards with corresponding power output, says the company.

An added benefit is its excellent fuel consumption thanks to the exclusive electronically controlled common rail fuel injection system and variable geometry turbocharger. Regardless of conditions and speed, the engine is supplied with the correct amount of fuel to offer extremely low fuel consumption and emissions. It easily complies with the emission requirements introduced in the EU and USA from 2006.

The D3 is compatible with SX drives and the DP-S Duo Prop drive. It’s also compatible with an array of transmissions, V-drives, and straight and angled shafts.

Volvo Penta also launches its next generation D12-800 hp diesel that’s designed primarily for twin-power configurations on flybridges or sport cruisers ranging from 50 to 70 feet.

While the D12-800 hp shares the same block when it was introduced five years ago, designers went back to the drawing board to make it even more efficient. The new D12 is cleaner with lower emission levels and virtually no smoke, thanks to a more effective charge-air cooler that maintains a constant induction air temperature. There’s also an improved electronic control system. The D12-800 easily complies with the emission requirements introduced in the EU and USA as from 2006.

Boaters should also expect to see the return of Volvo Penta’s revolutionary Inboard Performance System (IPS). Since its launch in North America at the Miami International Boat Show in 2005, more than 50 boat manufacturers globally are utilizing the system in their product lines. The system also garnered plenty of awards since then including the recent Best Technological Innovation Trophy at the Genoa International Boat Show in Italy and the 2005 Best of What’s New Award from Popular Science magazine.

The engine is currently available in two versions, the IPS 400 and IPS 500, which are based on the company’s D6-310 and D6-370 diesel engines.

For more information visit www.volvopenta.com (Page Top)

YAMAHA
Owners of pontoon boats and aluminum fishing boats now have more power options this year with Yamaha’s F50 and F60 Four-Stroke outboards.

Both engines come with many key highlights including the company’s tried-and-true Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI). This system utilizes multi-port fuel injection that is controlled by the company’s exclusive Engine Control Module (ECM). Four independent fuel injectors deliver a precise amount of fuel to each cylinder, offering improved fuel economy and increased performance.

A blow-by gas reburning system removes any unburned fuel from exhaust gases and reroutes it to the fuel delivery system to burn more efficiently. It then removes any oil in the exhaust gases and returns it to the oil pan. It’s features like these that enable the engines to easily meet the 2006 Federal EPA emissions standards and achieve a 3-Star Ultra-Low Emissions rating from The California Air Resources Board (CARB).

When it comes to performance, both outboards conceal a 1.0 L in-line four-cylinder block with a single overhead camshaft to offer plenty of torque while a 1.85-to-1 gear ratio means quick hole shots and added performance.

The F50 and F60 house a microcomputer ignition featuring a throttle position sensor to monitor engine speed and combustion stability. It also automatically adjusts ignition timing. To provide quiet running characteristics, a water-sealed outer wall surrounds the muffler and exhaust gases and sound are routed through a multi-step exhaust labyrinth.

In the event of overheating, low oil pressure, or over-revving, the engine automatically alerts users with a series of sensors. If other problems occur, such as debris blocking the water intakes, buzzing sensors and warning lights are triggered and the engine reduces speed to 2,000 rpm.

Both engines offer 16 amps of power at 3,500 rpm.

The F50 and F60 are also available in tiller versions. As an option, Yamaha offers the Variable Trolling System (VTS). This unique feature sports an up/down switch on the handle to increase or decrease trolling speeds between 620 and 900 rpm in 50 rpm increments.
Other offerings in Yamaha’s four-stroke line include the popular F150, along a full range of clean V6s, including the F200, F225 and F250.

For more information visit www.yamaha-motor.ca (Page Top)

CRUSADER MARINE
Crusader Marine’s Captain’s Choice line includes the 275 hp 5.0 L MPI, a newly calibrated 330 hp 5.7 L MPI, and a 375 hp 6.0 L, which is claimed as the company’s strongest engine. Other models include the monstrous 8.1 L MPI, along with the 425 hp 8.1 L HO.

These engines are based on GM’s Vortec engine block, featuring the latest in powertrain technology. An advanced EFI system offers instant starting, smooth idling, optimum performance and fuel economy, while (depending on the application) the fuel injection boasts the exclusive Fuel Control Cell (FCC) or the Aqua-Cooler. Both offer precise fuel delivery and eliminate the chance of fuel starvation and/or vapour lock.

For 2006, Crusader’s engines are utilizing larger and more durable modular stainless steel raw water pumps. Added toughness is offered by an exclusive full freshwater cooling system, which means the engine assembly and exhaust system is protected from saltwater by long life coolant. According to the company, the engine and transmission oil cooler ensures guaranteed cooling even during extensive, high-speed runs.

Crusader is also known for offering easy and convenient maintenance. For example, its distributorless engine control system eliminates parts such points, rotor, condenser and cap to reduce the number of parts and increase reliability. Platinum-tipped spark plugs and long-life coolant nearly triple the intervals between changes and the stainless steel pump is driven by a serpentine drive belt. This means there is no water pump belt to service. The impeller can also be changed without removing the pump from the engine.

For more information visit www.crusaderengines.com (Page Top)

SUZUKI
For 2006, Suzuki’s four-stroke offerings continue with the all-new DF150 and DF175 hp outboard engines. Both sport a new big-block in-line four-cylinder design with a large displacement of 2,867cc’s. According to the company, each unit offers optimum low-end torque out of the hole and strong acceleration that keeps on pushing up to wide-open throttle. The DF175 has an operating range of 5,500 rpm to 6,100 rpm and the DF150 has an operating range of 5,000-6,000 rpm. They’re among the lightest in their class, coming in at 465 pounds (the DF150TZ and DF175TZ weigh 474 pounds).

While both engines employ dual overhead cams and four valves per cylinder, the DF175 is singled-out with Suzuki’s tried and true Variable Valve Timing (VVT), allowing the intake cam timing to continually adjust for maximum performance, reduced emissions and increased fuel economy.

In addition to featuring lightweight forged aluminum pistons, which offer faster revs and quicker throttle response, each engine is designed with an exclusive three-piece composite intake manifold that reduces weight and provide an efficient path for fresh air from the intake system located at the rear of the cowling. A multi-stage induction system also changes the length of intake manifold pipes (relevant to engine speed) to provide improved combustion and optimum performance at any rpm. An exclusive spherical bore throttle body also produces smoother airflow when the throttle begins to open due to its distinct shape, resulting in improved throttle control and stable engine operation at low speeds.

Another technological highlight is an advanced digital sequential electronic fuel injection system featuring a 32-bit onboard computer. This monitors the multi-point sequential fuel injection and direct ignition system to deliver optimum performance in all running conditions. It uses a water-cooled heat exchanger to lower the temperature of the fuel before it reaches the engine and even increases the density of the fuel and boosts power output. Both engines easily earned a 3-star Ultra Low Emissions rating from the California Air Resources Board.

Another highlight on the DF150 and DF175 are quiet running characteristics. A counter-balancing system, which is chain-driven off the crankshaft and mounted to the front of the block, cancels out horizontal vibrations while a thrust mounting system reduces engine vibrations below 2,000 rpm. With Suzuki’s proven offset driveshaft design, the engines have a lower profile with improved center of gravity on the transom.

Additional benefits include a 2.50:1 gear case, enabling the engines to spin larger diameter and higher-pitched props along with a high-output 44-amp alternator.

Another new model this year is the DF25 hp outboard. This two-cylinder, V-twin four-stroke is the first V-Twin with a 538cc power head. According to the company, the DF25 is nearly 55 pounds lighter than the company’s previous three-cylinder 25 hp four-stroke and incorporates an aluminum block, aluminum connecting rods and newly designed CDI ignition system that is less than half the weight and size of previous systems.

The single-carburetor engine easily complies with EU 2005 emissions standards, the 2006 EPA emissions standards and carries the California Air Resources Board (CARB) 3-Star Ultra-Low emissions rating. The DF25 is available in 15-inch and 20-inch shaft lengths with manual/electrical starting and tiller or remote steering.

Rounding out Suzuki’s 2006 power line is the 2.5 hp four-stroke, designed for cartoppers, canoes, jon boats, inflatables and other small vessels.

For more information visit www.suzuki.ca (Page Top)

HONDA
Ready to power smaller aluminum boats, pontoons or be used as a kicker for larger transoms, Honda’s 2006 BF30 hp is a small but mighty four-stroke ready for anything.

This engine boasts a displacement of 552cc’s to deliver four percent more torque, while its lightweight, compact three-cylinder, three-carburetor design utilizes one carburetor per cylinder to provide smooth, quiet operation, instant throttle response and performance.

In addition to a featured microprocessor designed to accurately control ignition timing during start-up, the electric start models automatically adjust the air-fuel mixture for quick, easy starting and warm-up. Once underway, a unique air intake on the top of the cowl allows cooler air to enter and warmer air to escape, while reducing operating temperature which, in turn, improves performance and longevity for the electrical components.

The BF30 hp has a three-inlet cooling system that allows plenty of water to maintain the ideal engine temperature in all conditions. In the event of overheating, low oil or PSI, and over-revving, the engine informs drivers of the errors via an engine alert system.

Some physical features include a new ergonomically designed tiller handle that’s eight inches longer and angled five inches higher for easier handling. Up-front shift, a PTT switch, and engine alert lamps are added touches.

The engine also sports a regulated charging system. On manual models the BF30 hp offers four amps or power while on electric models, users are provided with 10 amps. A fresh water flushing port and power trim/tilt with a range of - 4 to +12 degrees are other thoughtful features. The BF30 meets the Ultra Low 3-Star CRB Emissions Standards.

Honda also offers the BF150 hp four-stroke, a popular mid-range engine based on a 2.4 L four-cylinder engine, the same one used in Honda’s CR-V, Element and Accord automobiles.

The BF150’s power head incorporates Honda’s compact Engine Control Unit (ECU), which works with an exclusive variable timing and lift control plus a Dual Stage Induction system (DSI) to offer an incredibly wide powerband. The proven 16-valve VTEC dual-overhead cam design features an intake cam, while an additional lobe and rocker is featured for each cylinder. During operation below 4,300 rpm, the rockers and outer lobes allow the optimal air-fuel mixture to crank-out low end torque and the middle rocker arm floats up and down on a high lift, long duration lobe, offering increased valve lift and duration to increase air flow.

The BF150 also prevents overheating thanks to twin thermostats featured on the block and cylinder head. There are also three over heat sensors, including one on the exhaust manifold and external oil cooler. According to the company, this reduces the operating oil temperature by more than 15 percent.

The BF150’s alternator produces 50 amps of power above 3,000 rpm with 44 amps is still provided for charging batteries or marine electronics.
For more information www.hondamarine.com.

(Page Top)