| Charge
up your helm this season with some of the year's hottest
electronics.
FURUNO
For 2007, Furuno has joined forces with Airmar to
offer boaters the RD30 and PB100 Ultimate Weather
Station. A valuable tool to have on board no matter
where you cruise, the unit combines the benefits of
its RD30 Nav Data Repeater with the PB100 Weather
Station to offer vital, detailed weather information.
The
system displays data via a bright, 4.5-inch LCD and
in addition to measuring wind speed and direction,
it offers continuous operation in adverse weather
conditions, an internal compass (that also displays
vessel position), air temperature, barometric pressure,
dew point temperature, wind chill, plus water temperature
and depth.
For more convenience, the system uses less than two
Watts of power and has an array of audible alarms
including temperature, course error, vessel speed,
cross track error, and arrival. It also incorporates
a Furuno GPS sensor that can be used as a backup GPS
unit when the duty calls. It's NMEA0183 compatible
and comes complete with a standard one-inch mount
designed to accommodate existing mounting hardware.
For more information contact www.furuno.com
KVH
All-new from KVH this year is its TracVision M3, a
14.5-inch diameter satellite TV system that's claimed
to be the world's smallest stabilized marine satellite
unit. In fact, the system recently won the 2006 DAME
Prize in the Marine Electronics Category and also
won an NMEA Industry Award in the Marine Entertainment
category.
Designed
for boats as small as 25 feet, the system comes complete
with a fully stabilized antenna, a multi-satellite
control unit, and single cable for easy installation.
It comes equipped with an integrated 12V DIRECTV receiver,
allowing users to access 300-plus channels of programming
(such as news, weather, sports, movies and XM Radio
music) and the antenna has a rugged design, offering
precision tracking and coverage range comparable to
larger units, says the company. The M3 also has an
offshore range of 100-200 miles, a fully automatic
satellite acquisition and supports multiple receiver/TV
installations. It comes packaged with a 12V receiver,
RF remote and is ready right out of the box to hook
up to a 12V power supply and TV.
For more information visit www.KVH.com
NORTHSTAR
Northstar recently introduced the Explorer Series,
a full suite of marine units that includes 27 products,
including combo units, plotters, sounders, VHF radios,
instruments, fuel computers plus an autopilot. Key
features of this new series include superior screen
resolutions, AIS support, SmartCraft integration,
and C-MAP NT MAX compatibility.
Among
its many offerings, small boat owners will appreciate
the benefits of the Explorer 660, 657 and 650 combo
units. While all systems feature full VGA and SVGA
displays, the Explorer 660 has a 7.2-inch super high
resolution SVGA color screen, external GPS antenna,
and a 600W dual frequency 200/50kHz sounder. It's
even SmartCraft compatible. The Explorer 657 also
has an external GPS antenna, 600W dual frequency 200/50kHz
sounder and SmartCraft compatible, yet it comes with
a five-inch high-resolution LCD.
The 657 is another impressive unit. It supports the
Automatic Identification System (AIS), enabling users
to receive valuable information about commercial vessels
equipped with AIS transponders within a 30-mile range.
Functions include speed, heading, draft, closest point
of approach (CPA), time of closest point of approach
(TCPA), and MMSI, call sign, port of origin, final
destination and cargo details. It comes with a five-inch
colour screen, external GPS antenna, 600W dual frequency
200/50kHz sounder, and SmartCraft integration.
Another segment in this series are four new colour
fishfinders, the Explorer 467, 457, 438 and 435, as
well as four new grayscale fishfinders, the Explorer
433df, 443d, 443sp and 443s.
While the Explorer 467 and 457 sport a 6.4-inch high-resolution
full VGA colour display, a dual-frequency 200kHz/50kHz
sounder and 600 Watts of RMS power, the Explorer 438
has a 3.8-inch TFT colour display, a 200kHz transducer
and 200 Watts of RMS power. Each unit is also SmartCraft
compatible. The Explorer 435 has a 3.5-inch TFT colour
display, along with a 200kHz transducer and 200 Watts
RMS power.
In its greyscale line, the Explorer 443df (which is
also SmartCraft compatible) and 443d both share a
4.3-inch, 16-level, grayscale display, plus a dual-frequency
200/80kHz sounder, and 300 Watts of RMS power. And
while the 443df provides depth, speed, temperature
and fuel readouts, the 443d provides depth and temperature
readouts.
There's also The Explorer 443sp and 443s, each highlighting
a 4.3-inch four-level, grayscale display, single-frequency
200kHz sounder and 150 Watts of RMS power. The 443sp
provides depth, speed and temperature readouts, and
the 443s provides depth and temperature readouts.
All Explorer fishfinders come with transom mount transducers.
Other models include six new chartplotters, the Explorer
567, 557, 550, 550i, 538 and 538i, along with a range
of six four-inch square and two two-inch round instruments,
including the Explorer D310 Depth, the Explorer S310
Speed, the Explorer W310 Wind, the Explorer W315 Analog
Wind, the F310 Fuel, the M310 Multi, and the D210.
Rounding out the line are two VHF radios, the 721
and 710. There's also an Autopilot Explorer 338i.
For more information visit www.northstarnav.com
Yamaha
Following the introduction of its F50 and F60 outboards
in 2006, Yamaha is once again catering to owners of
pontoon, smaller aluminum fishing boats and yacht
tenders with its all-new F20 and F15.
Both
models utilize a one-piece cowling with a concealed
two-cylinder, 22.1 cubic-inch four-stroke powerhead
complete with a single overhead camshaft designed
to maximize power while minimizing weight and size.
The incorporated offset cylinders also contribute
to saving space and providing a compact design.
A new large-volume air intake silencer and streamlined
intake manifold combine to improve direct airflow
into the engine, minimizing noise and power, while
an accelerator pump in the carburetor provides the
extra fuel required for quick throttling and responsive
acceleration.
A light-load manual starter, featuring a short-throw
starter rope and comfortable contoured handle, is
designed for simple starts and even works with an
auto-decompression device to make manual starts easier.
Some models are even available with electric start.
Some other control options include manual and power
tilt, tiller handle controls and remote control capability
for the F20. Users should also know the tiller handle
models have an integrated stop switch lanyard and
an easy-to-use gearshift on the front of the engine.
When operating models with the manual tilt function
in shallow water, users will appreciate the Yamaha
Shallow Water Drive system that's designed to allow
low-speed operation in the shallows and allows easy
return to a normal running angle thanks to a conveniently
located release lever.
Another unique feature on both models is the waist
driveshaft that helps absorb forces caused by hitting
hard, objects below the water's surface. According
to the company, the driveshaft temporarily twists
at the waist, then returns to its original shape,
thus protecting the drive shaft, powerhead and other
engine components from damage.
Like all other models in the Yamaha line, the F20
and F15C deliver exceptional fuel economy at cruising
speeds thanks to the blow-by gas reburning system,
which helps reduce emissions. Both engines are also
three-star rated from the California Air Resources
Board (CARB) for ultra-low emissions.
Finally, the F20 and F15 also feature built-in carrying
handles, resting pads (located on the front of the
engine) for easy transporting and storage, a high-output
10-amp alternator and a freshwater flushing device.
Both models are available in 15- and 20-inch shaft
lengths.
For more information visit www.yamha-motor.ca
Suzuki
While it has been almost a year since Larry Vandiver,
Suzuki Marine's VP of sales and marketing, took center
stage to introduce the company's all-new DF300 hp
V6 four-stroke at the 2006 Miami International Boat
Show, the engines are now in full production and ready
to hit the water near you this season.
The DF300 is the first-ever 300 hp four-stroke to
be introduced in the outboard engine market, joining
Suzuki's existing DF200, DF225, DF250.
With
a long list of new and improved technology, this 4.0
litre transom weapon (which is claimed to boast the
largest displacement of any V6 outboard) can easily
fit on an array of transoms thanks to its weight of
604 pounds (for the X 25§ shaft model or 615 pounds
in XX 30§ shaft ), while a narrow 55-degree V block
allows it to fit transoms in twin or triple installations
on 26-inch centers without contact. A reliable offset
driveshaft is also utilized to offer better balance
on the transom and an overall compact design.
An impressive highlight, which provides optimum performance
and fuel efficiency, is its Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC)
powerhead. It features four valves per cylinder, along
with the company's proven Variable Valve Timing that
continually adjusts the intake cam phasing to maximize
torque in the low- and mid-range. It also reduces
emissions and improves fuel economy. In fact, like
the rest of Suzuki's V6 family, the DF300 meets the
California Air Resources Board (CARB) 3 每 Star Ultra
Low Emissions rating.
In addition to featuring a computer controlled multi-point
electronic fuel injection for optimum performance
and a self-adjusting, oil bathed timing chain, the
DF300 introduces several important firsts for Suzuki.
There's a sleek, hydrodynamic new lower unit that's
designed to reduce drag by 18 percent and works in
conjunction with Suzuki*s impressive two-stage gear
reduction to provide a final drive ratio of 2.08:1,
enabling the 300 to easily swing a 16-inch stainless
steel prop from 17- to 26-inch pitch. Counter rotation
is also available in 25- and 30-inch shaft lengths.
Newly configured air inlets are 25-percent larger
than those found on the Suzuki DF250, which feed an
81mm single throttle body for increased induction
airflow, while the exhaust is now designed to flow
unimpeded through the engine*s mid-section, as cooling
water is routed through a separate track and expelled
through a special vent above the propeller. These
new intake and exhaust systems work together to improve
the engine*s overall breathing for increased power
output. In fact, the DF300 has a maximum operating
range of 5,700 to 6,300 rpm.
To better serve anglers and offshore fishermen, the
DF300 sports a 12V 54-amp alternator, providing plenty
of power for fishfinders, GPS chart plotters, radar
systems, baitwell pumps, or spreader lights. The system
is also designed to charge both the cranking and house
batteries simultaneously, but on independent circuits.
The DF300 has push-button starting, new easy-to-use
cowling latches and front and rear freshwater flushing
ports. Users should also know the DF300 is offered
with the new Suzuki Precision ControlTM〞 an advanced
fly-by-wire shift/throttle system specifically designed
for single or dual helm installation (in single, twin
or triple engine rigging). According to the company,
this electronic control system provides smoother,
more decisive shifting, quicker throttle response
(even when maneuvering in and out of tight confines)
plus easy electronic synchronization of twin or triple
engines for maximum engine efficiency while underway.
If you're looking for other four-stroke power options
from Suzuki, the company offers a long line of four-strokes
ranging from 2.5 hp to 15 hp in its portable division,
40 hp to 175 hp in its mid-range division, and from
200 to 300 hp in its V6 division.
For more information visit www.suzuki.ca
Yanmar
For the 2007 model year, Yanmar Marine introduces
its diesel engine, the 4JH4-HTE.
According
to the company, the engine provides 10 per cent more
power and is 20 pounds lighter than the previous model,
while still providing an increase in fuel consumption.
It comes in at 478 pounds, measures 36.7 x 20.9 x
25.9 inches and has a rating of 110 hp at 3,200 rpm.
According to Yanmar, the engine averages less than
six gallons per hour and complies with the EPA Tier
2, BSO Tier 2 and EU RCD emission regulations.
The mechanically controlled, four-cylinder diesel
has 16 valves, a 121.7 cubic-inch displacement and
has an impressive superior power-to-weight ratio.
It also operates with reduced noise and vibration
and can even come with either mechanical or hydraulic
gears.
In addition to featuring an improved fuel injection
system with electric stop solenoid, enhanced pistons,
heat exchanger and new intake manifold, it sports
a maintenance-free oil cooler, V-belt safety cover
plus an 80-amp alternator. An digital instrument panel
is optional and provides a tachometer, hour-meter
plus an alarm function to alert boaters of low battery
charge, high coolant temperature and low oil pressure.
For more information contact www.yanmarmarine.com
Volvo Penta
Once again, Volvo Penta is ready for recreational
boaters with new technology, new power and new innovations
for the 2007 power year.
For
starters, its acclaimed IPS system, which was introduced
two years ago and only available in twin-engine configurations,
is now offered in triple-engine (or more) power set
ups, further meeting the demands for owners of boats
exceeding 50-plus feet. The result? Improved comfort,
maneuverability and performance. What's more is there's
no requirement for additional controls and the triple
(or more) engine configuration is compatible with
the company's popular IPS Joy Stick control.
Additional news surrounding IPS is the addition of
two new models, the Volvo Penta IPS350 and IPS600,
which join the existing IPS400 and IPS500.
According to the company, the IPS350 is powered by
the D4-260, a four-cylinder diesel with turbocharger,
intercooler and compressor featuring a capacity of
3.7 liters and a crankshaft output of 260 hp at 3,500
rpm. The IPS600 is based on the D6-435 diesel engine,
which has been adapted 每 through the addition of a
compressor and other modifications 每 to the Volvo
Penta IPS system. Modern diesel technology with electronically
controlled common-rail fuel injection, double overhead
camshafts, four valves per cylinder, turbocharger,
intercooler and compressor are just some of its features.
In fact, the compressor produces high compression
immediately during acceleration at low revs, creating
powerful torque. At higher revs, its disengaged and
the turbo power takes over 每 providing optimum acceleration
with high torque throughout the entire rpm range.
Each model also reduces vibration with the reinforcement
of a special ladder frame and a cylinder head that's
cast as a single unit. Common-rail fuel injection
means quieter engine levels (without diesel clatter)
and with the IPS350, the balance shafts are integral
(mounted in the engine block) to compensate for rotational
forces, resulting in considerably more even running.
Both engines meet the emissions requirements and even
fuel consumption is improved by 30 percent, while
noise levels and vibration are 50 percent lower, says
the company.
Other news from Volvo includes the launch of two Aquamatic
drives, designed for its series of gasoline engines
and D3 diesel engines. Replacing the SX and DP-S drives,
according to Volvo Penta, both drives offer increased
performance with a new exhaust system that actually
reduces exhaust backpressure, thus increasing engine
efficiency. Volvo also says the lower gear housing
on each drive is hydrodynamically designed to facilitate
maximum speed and a patented cone coupling results
in smooth, distinct gear changes.
Additionally, individually matched helically cut gears
reduce high-pitched, whistling and a large rudder
surface results in precise steering, especially when
maneuvering in tight spaces.
Rounding out the Volvo power line is its new D6-435,
a newly developed diesel engine for inboard installations.
Joining Volvo Penta*s new D series and bridging the
gap between the D6-370 (370 hp) and the D9-500, the
D6-435 is claimed to offer faster acceleration, lower
fuel consumption, and a more compact design. In fact,
the new powerhouse is designed to offer 25-percent
improved acceleration (up to 20 knots), slightly higher
top speed, plus a lower weight.
An in-line six-cylinder diesel, the 435 sports a new
turbocharger, a modified intercooler along with a
new cylinder head featuring relocated valves to increase
airflow. There are also new pistons with matching
combustion chambers, while the intercooler, air intake
and injector are larger for increased efficiency.
The 435 is also available with a straight shaft and
also a down angle gearbox, each featuring electronically
controlled gear-shifts integrated with the engines
via Volvo's EVC system. As an option, a low-speed
function is available and uses a transmission with
a slip clutch to enable the boat to be driven at about
half the idling speed, which is useful when maneuvering
in a harbor or around a slip.
Volvo's Electronic Vessel Control Unit is also included
and allows the engine, controls and instrumentation
to be integrated, permitting simple installation and
reliability. The CAN bus technology uses a serial
data cable to replace conventional cabling for instruments
and controls. Electronic controls for shift and throttle
are standard.
For more information visit www.volvopenta.com
Mercury
Owners of pontoons, runabouts and fishing boats now
more options to consider when shopping for new power
this year. For 2007, Mercury Marine offers three new
mid-range four-stroke EFI outboards, the 75, 90 and
115.
The
eighth, ninth and 10th engines based from Mercury*s
Verado platform, all three 1.7 litre engines are controlled
by Merc's Electronic Control Module (ECM) featuring
a Motorola microprocessor, providing precise control
over the fuel management system and engine combustion
processes, which constantly monitors engine sensors
and makes necessary adjustments to maintain optimal
function.
Additionally, they highlight full SmartCraft capability,
offering complete and detailed engine status and performance
data.
Other features include instant, reliable turn-key
starting, allowing quick and easy starts in various
weather conditions (without any choking or manipulation
of the throttle), along with a self-priming fuel system,
which includes a fuel supply module (FSM) that was
borrowed from Verado.
Users should also expect to experience quiet, smooth
engine operation across the entire rpm range, with
best-in-class sound level and quality at idle. This
is achieved through the implementation of an Integrated
Idle Relief Attenuator (IIRA) and features of the
new cowl system. In fact, according to the company,
this system combines Verado-inspired styling outside,
with air ducting developed by virtue of computer aided
engineering (CAE) inside to enhance performance. Further
benefits of the cowling include its polymer construction
that's light weight and durable, acoustic foam and
a unique duct design to reduce sound emissions.
One the other end of the power spectrum, Mercury offers
its OptiMax 250 Pro XS, a powerful, fuel-efficient
and durable transom-pusher designed for users of bass
boats, deep-V walleye, and saltwater bay boats.
Users will also be happy to know the 250 sports many
unique Mercury Racing-designed components, such as
carbon fiber reeds, solid billet aluminum mounts and
special dome-shaped, coated pistons, along with the
company's OptiMax two-stage fuel-injection system,
which utilizes a charge of fuel and air to atomize
fuel droplets directly into the combustion chamber,
a first-rate atomization process that results in outstanding
fuel economy as well as lower emissions.
The 250 Pro XS, which is based largely on Mercury
Racing*s popular 250 XS, is available in 20- and 25-inch
models and will feature the company's Torque Master
gear case in right-hand rotation.
Other new outboards this year include the 2.5 and
3.5 hp FourStrokes, a pair single-cylinder engines
that displace 85 cubic centimeters (the highest in
its class) and weigh just 38 pounds. Some highlights
include a front carrying handle for easy transport,
a fuel shut-off valve to ensure safe travel and an
external oil window, which allows the users to quickly
check oil levels without pulling a dipstick. The engines
are water-cooled and thermostatically controlled and
a manual choke is designed to provide easy starting.
An integrated 1.2 liter fuel tank, a twist-grip throttle
on the tiller, 360-degree steering and four tilt positions
on the transom bracket are other benefits. Both models
are available in 15- and 20-inch shaft lengths.
From Mercury Racing comes the New OptiMax 300XS Outboard.
At the heart of this transom weapon is what the company
calls a Stroker, a 3.2 litre V-6 powerhead featuring
a stroked and balanced crankshaft designed to provide
optimum power and performance. A dampener ensures
smooth running throughout the engine operating range
and all-new pistons have an updated profile plus a
composite coating for improved durability. Mercury
also says piston ring life has also doubled thanks
to a composite chrome coating.
What's more is the exhaust port, combustion chamber
and fuel induction designs are direct descendants
from the company's Formula 1 tunnel boat race engine.
Enhanced airflow through the reed block fuel induction
system is provided by an enhanced air box design.
There's also a thinner reed material and unique reed
shape.
One of the other key benefits of the 300 is that it
utilizes the new Propulsion Control Module (PCM) 07
microprocessor, featuring a fuel calibration. When
combined with the race-bred combustion chamber design,
the engine produces peak power for a longer period
of time in the upper rpm range. In addition to optimizing
fuel, spark timing and knock control for each cylinder
independently, enhancing engine running quality and
performance, the PCM 07 operates the electronic multipoint
lubrication system.
Another system on the 300 is the SmartCraft Control
Area Network (CAN) system, a network of sensors and
actuators, which monitors and controls multiple engine
functions and enables the PCM 07 microprocessor to
provide real-time engine function data to accessory
SmartCraft gauges. This includes speed, rpm, engine
trim level, fuel consumption and range.
Overhead, is an acoustically-tuned foam, which wraps
the interior of the top cowl. With an attenuator for
the direct fuel injection air compressor, and an advanced
exhaust system, engine sound is greatly reduced.
The 300XS also features a high air/fuel pressure differential,
which enhances running quality. According to Mercury,
unlike other DFI systems, OptiMax uses an exclusive
two-stage fuel process. For instance, a burst of air
(at 95 psi) shoots through the fuel, breaking it into
a fine mist, creating more surface area for combustion
and actually stays suspended in the cylinder longer,
resulting in a more consistent and complete burn.
The 300XS is available with 20, 25 and 30-inch die-cast
midsections featuring an all-new exhaust system. Water
jacketed exhaust is routed under water, which exits
the midsection, just above the gear case cavitation
plate. The routing of exhaust below the water surface
(along with a foam-lined cowl and attenuator for the
compressor) greatly reduces engine sound levels. And
when power is applied, the exhaust is routed through
the midsection opening and an updated idle relief
hole, resulting in lower operating sound levels without
sacrificing power. Through-hull Noise Vibration Harshness
(NVH) is further reduced on the 25- and 30-inch models
with the use of softer upper and lower engine mounts.
All exhaust exits through the midsection opening at
midrange through wide open throttle for maximum power
and performance.
The 300XS full throttle RPM range is 5800-6300 for
20- and 25-inch models and 5500-5800 for 25§ and 30§
models.
Rounding out the offerings from Mercury this year
is the popular 700 SCi sterndrive engine paired with
the company*s new ACE drive. The 700, which is based
on the same CNC-machined 502 cubic-inch cylinder block
as the 525 EFI and 600 SCi, has a copper-nickel alloy
intercooler called CuproNickel that*s designed to
offer enhanced corrosion resistance. It*s also 0.75
inches taller than the model used on the 600 SCi for
improved engine cooling and similar to the 525 EFI,
600 SCi, 850 SCi and 1075 SCi, the 700 comes equipped
with the Mercury-exclusive Propulsion Control Module
(PCM) 03 microprocessor. It*s the first engine to
come standard with the new universal engine mount
system, which enable OEM boat builders to install
the engine in virtually any hull configuration with
ease, and the new large-capacity power steering reservoir
that is deigned to eliminate additional after market
reservoirs used by boat builders.
Mercury is also staying on the cutting edge of the
wakeboarding scene after launching its SmartTow, a
precise and easy-to-use control cruise system that
allows tow boat drivers to program and achieve smooth,
consistent launch and cruising speeds for boarding,
skiing and even tubing.
Consisting of an rpm-based set-point control and the
Mercury-patented Launch Control System, SmartTow features
five pre-set launch profiles designed to meet different
water sports needs. To use, simply select a launch
profile for hole shots or enter an rpm based on the
rider*s needs and move the throttle to wide-open.
SmartTow takes care of the rest.
SmartTow is integrates with existing Mercury SmartCraft
technology and is available for 22 different sterndrive
and outboard engine models equipped with Mercury Digital
Throttle and Shift (DTS) (as well as the SmartCraft
2007 edition).
For additional information on Mercury's 2007 products
and its full line of power, visit www.mercurymarine.com
Honda
From the creators of the popular F225 hp and BF150
hp four-strokes, comes the all-new, completely redesigned,
BF90 and BF75 four-stroke outboard engines, offering
a reliable, and powerful choice for owners of pontoons
and aluminum fishing boats.
These
models shine where Honda excels most. When it comes
to environmental standards, both are virtually smoke-free
and easily make the grade and succeed in meeting the
California Air Resource Board (CARB) 3-Star requirements,
which are 20 percent lower than those by the EPA.
In the power department, Honda has once again outdone
itself and provides the power and control where its
needed the most, whether you're docking or trolling
or running full-tilt to the next fishing hole.
The 1.5 litre, 16-valve, inline 4-cylinder are based
on the same power plant found in Honda*s Fit automobile,
the company's number one selling vehicle globally
and is acclaimed for being economical, efficient and
durable. And yes, these same traits are found 每 and
clearly demonstrated 每 in the BF75 and BF90.
Both outboards sport a Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC)
design using dual intake valves to provide an optimal
air/fuel mixture for excellent torque and combustion
efficiency. Additionally, a Multi-Port Electronic
Fuel Injection system (PGM-FI) precisely controls
ignition timing during start-up. The benefit? Smoother,
quieter operation with instant throttle response and
performance.
An added benefit of the BF90 is the Variable Valve
Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system,
the same technology utilized in the BF150 hp and BF225
hp (it was also developed for Honda's Acura NSX).
Whether you're running at low and high rpm, VTEC utilizes
mild cam lobes to operate the intake valves at low
rpm. Then, at higher rpm (5,300), VTEC engages a high
output cam lobe to operate the intake valves for high
rpm operation, thus providing optimum and efficient
power in both low and high rpm ranges. Additionally,
at high rpm (above 5300), the engine's Engine Command
Module (ECM) triggers the solenoid that causes hydraulic
pressure to move a synchronizing piston that locks
the outer intake rocker arms to the center intake
rocker arm, thus creating a single unit that operates
off the high lift cam profile. This allows a mass
of high-velocity air to pack into the combustion chamber
and as a result, it produces more power.
Nonetheless, both engines provide optimum, on-demand
power thanks to an all-new system Honda calls Boosted
Low Speed Torque (BLAST). Working in conjunction with
Minimum advance for Best Torque (MBT) and the ECM,
which receives information from the throttle sensor
and determines the throttle opening, at the punch
of the throttle BLAST takes off and provides a strong
boost in horsepower and torque at low rpm, providing
excellent planing speeds and performance.
Another highlight on the BF75 and BF90 is an all-new
high performance gear case. In addition to featuring
a longer anti-cavitation plate, which helps track
water to the prop and eliminate porpoising, and front
splash plate that reduces spray from the bottom of
the hull, it offers a 2.33:1 gear ratio and a streamlined
front and larger bullet. According to Honda, this
reduces drag and friction, while enhancing acceleration,
and top speed.
When it comes to fuel economy and efficiency, both
outboards will impress. With its sequential multi-port
fuel injection system, four fuel injectors and a Common
High Flow Throttle Body, the outboards deliver a precise
amount of fuel and air to each cylinder, offering
easy starting, instant throttle response and optimum
efficiency.
Some other features include a 44-amp alternator, an
Engine Alert System and a Fresh Water Flushport.
Look for an on-water test on the BF90/75 in an upcoming
issue of Power Boating Canada.
For more information on Honda and its 2007 offerings
contact www.hondamarine.com
Tohatsu Outboards/ Nissan
Marine
Tohatsu America Corp., distributor of Tohatsu outboards,
recently announced it will be introducing the Tohatsu
brand in Canada for the 2007 model year.
The outboards will be available to Canadian boaters
starting at the Toronto International Boat Show in
January, as well as at the Vancouver International
Boat Show in February.
Tohatsu currently offers outboards ranging from 40
to 115 hp, which come complete with the proven Two-Stroke
Low-Pressure Direct Injection (TLDI) system, as well
as four-strokes ranging from 2 hp to 30 hp.
※The reason we are introducing the Tohatsu brand to
Canada is the tremendous growth we have experienced
over the past few years and the realization that while
our marketing effort for Tohatsu is global, we were
missing a huge opportunity for growth in Canada,§
said Tohatsu America Corp.*s president Hiro Wakabayashi.
Tohatsu America Corp also distributes Nissan Marine
outboard engines to Canada and will continue to do
so. In fact, the company recently opened a new manufacturing
facility in Japan along with new, expanded corporate
headquarters and distribution center in Farmers Branch,
Texas.
For 2007, Tohatsu outboards with Nissan Marine are
ready for Canadian Boaters with two new four-strokes,
the 25 and 30 hp 每 the industry*s first battery-less,
manual start, electronically-controlled fuel-injected
outboards.
According to Tohatsu, the outboards utilize Electronic
Fuel Injection (EFI) technology, providing boaters
with quick, easy starts, quieter operation, improved
acceleration and automatic adjustments in elevation
changes. All new this year is an exclusive battery-less
EFI system, an industry-first, which means the system
receives voltage directly from the alternator, allowing
the engine to be started by the pull rope or electric
starter. The rope start is standard equipment on all
electric start models.
What's more, the 25 hp and 30 hp boast a CD ignition
system specially-designed for immediate starting in
all sea and weather conditions. Depending on models,
they are available with manual tilt or power trim
and tilt systems.
Other technical highlights include a cross-flow induction
design for optimum power and a three-cylinder system
to deliver smooth rides. According to Tohatsu, the
25 hp and 30 hp respectively use 2.3 and 2.6 gallons
per hour at 5,500 rpm.
For more information visit www.tohatsu.com and www.nissanmarine.com
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