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Marine Power 2003

A look at the new outboards, sterndrives and diesel and gas inboards for the upcoming season.
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Mercury Racing OptiMax 250XS

The new Mercury Racing OptiMax 250XS boasts Pro Max performance and OptiMax efficiency, a great combination for tournament fishermen, or whenever a long run to the fishing grounds benefits from high-performance power. Custom built by Mercury Racing, this high-horsepower outboard showcases Mercury’s two-cycle, direct-injection, low-emissions technology. The 3.0-liter powerhead has high-performance cylinder liners featuring race-derived transfer and exhaust ports with hand-ground boost ports for increased power and performance. Custom pistons and O-ring cylinder heads with special combustion chambers provide maximum horsepower and performance. Rubber-coated reed blocks cushion the impact of five-petal, single-stage carbon-fiber reeds, enhancing reed life without sacrificing performance. A proprietary two-stage direct-injection system atomizes fuel completely for instantaneous combustion. The fuel/air mixture is injected at 95 psi, 15 psi higher than standard DFI or OptiMax specifications, providing additional enhancement of rpm and response. The 250XS weighs in at 505 pounds and carries a two-year recreation limited and a three-year limited corrosion warranty. Mercury Racing, Fond du Lac WI, (920) 921-5330; www.mercuryracing.com

Volvo Penta Ocean Propulsion Series

|Volvo’s new Ocean Propulsion Series sterndrives are designed for boats in the 18- to 30-foot range, and for salt water fishermen who have traditionally relied on outboard power. The new system includes a bottom-up design of the outdrive, built with structural composites that decrease weight, improve impact protection and offer 10 percent less hydrodynamic drag than previous designs. The Ocean Series models feature an exclusive Neutra-Salt flushing system that removes interior salt deposits without the need for a fresh water flush. Remote oil filters and fuel-water separators are located where they are easy to service, and the oil reservoir is conveniently mounted on the engine for ease in checking oil and to reduce the chance of water intrusion in the gear case. The Ocean Series is compatible with a full range of EFI multi-port, four-stroke Volvo Penta gasoline powerplants: 4.3 OSi (225 hp), 5.0 OSi-XDP (270 hp) and the 5.7 OSXi-XDP (320 hp). All of these exceed the 2008 CARB and EPA emission requirements for 2- and 4-stroke outboards. Volvo Penta, Chesapeake, VA; (757) 436-2800; www.volvopenta.com.|

Suzuki 140 Counter Rotation

Suzuki’s 140-hp four-stroke outboard is now available with counter rotation for dual-engine installation, making a pair of these an excellent choice for large center consoles and other salt water fishing boats. Handling and control, especially in tight quarters, such as maneuvering in crowded marinas and docking are just a couple of the benefits of the counter-rotation configuration. At planing speeds, elimination of prop torque makes for easier handling and an even ride. It also provides excellent performance in combination with the in-line four-cylinder design and ready-to-rig weight of 421 pounds per motor. The 140 is packed with innovative design features, such as large dual overhead cams, four valves per cylinder, an offset driveshaft under the powerhead, 4-into-2 exhaust system, a water-cooled long-track intake manifold and the industry’s first water-cooled oil cooler. The Multi-Point electronic fuel injection delivers crisp and efficient performance while meeting both the 2006 EPA and the California Air Resources Board three-star emissions standards. Suzuki Marine, La Brea, CA; (714) 996-7040; www.suzuki.com.

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Yamaha Z250 HPDI

|Yamaha has raised the bar on its own line of outboards with the new Z250, a two-stroke that sets a new performance standard, and is available as counter-rotating twins. An all-new 3.3-liter V-6 block has been designed to incorporate a new High Pressure Direct Injection (HPDI) system that delivers fuel to the cylinders at 1,000 psi. This 43-percent increase in fuel pressure over the previous HPDI technology focuses performance on the 2500 to 5500 rpm range, where economy and durability are put to the test. The HPDI engines utilize a radius-style forged-aluminum piston to complement the hemispheric combustion chamber. Combined with the high-pressure atomization of fuel, it provides a cleaner burn that provides outstanding combustion efficiency. The new Z250 burns unleaded regular gas with a minimum octane rating of 87, resulting in savings at the gas dock. Between 3500 and 6000 rpm the alternator puts out 50 amps of recharge and accessory power. The Z250 is available in 25- and 30-inch shaft lengths and carries a two-year limited warranty. Yamaha Marine Group, Kennesaw, GA; (800) 88-YAMAHA; www.yamaha-motor.com.|

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Honda BF200

The new 200-hp four-stroke from Honda features four valves per cylinder, plus programmed electronic fuel injection for easy starts and instant throttle response. This new 3.5-liter engine utilizes many key components from the high-performance engines put in Acura automobiles. A Variable Intake System varies the volume of the intake manifold plenum by switching between a small-volume plenum at low engine speeds and a large-volume plenum at high speeds. An oxygen sensor improves the engine’s overall operation and efficiency, and a non-linear rubber-mount system isolates vibration for smoother operation. A 60-amp alternator keeps the batteries charged, and an Engine Command Module (ECM) microcomputer controls and monitors the entire engine for problems through a series of sensors. The 60-degree V-6 engine features a gear ratio of 1.86:1 and the 25-inch shaft model weighs 599 pounds. Honda Marine, Alpharetta, GA; (800) 426- 7701; www.honda-marine.com.

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Caterpillar C30

|Caterpillar’s new C30 marine diesel engine is the same size class as the popular Cat 3412E, but adds 150 mhp (metric horsepower) – an 11-percent increase. The C30’s top rating of 1,570 mhp at 2300 rpm provides a significant performance boost for vessels over 50 feet. It smokes very little, idles smoothly and gets excellent fuel economy, and is designed for high-performance, rapid acceleration, smooth cruising and reserve power for challenging conditions. Much of the C30’s performance is due to electronic control and fuel systems. The ADEM Electronic Control Module works with the patented Caterpillar HEUI fuel system to maximize power and torque while meeting all known current and future emissions regulations. The C30 is equipped with an integral titanium plateheat exchanger that reduces engine size, improves reliability and simplifies maintenance. The cooling system deaerators, water-jacket crossover pipe, shunt line and expansion tank are all incorporated into the new compact heat-exchanger design. There are fewer gasket joints to maintain and the entire unit removes easily when service is needed. Caterpillar, Peoria, IL; (800) 321-7332; www.cat-marine.com.|

### Converting Metric HorsepowerThere are a couple of different designators that engine manufacturers use to identify the power output of their products. Historically, SAE horsepower has been the conventional measure of power output for U.S. manufacturers. This particular standard yields what is called brake horsepower (bhp). The last few years have seen a trend toward using metric horsepower (mhp), a German standard that is used throughout Europe. The mhp rating for a given engine is always a larger number than the bhp. While there may be some global advantage to using mhp, basically it provides a larger number that looks better from a marketing standpoint. Once one manufacturer began using mhp the rest felt compelled to do the same in order to remain competitive. There is a straight percentage conversion between the two ratings. According to Wes Hohulin, the marketing manager for Caterpillar America, metric horsepower rating is 1.4 percent higher than a brake horsepower rating for the same output. If you want to do the math, multiply the brake horsepower by 1.014 to get a metric horsepower rating. Or, divide the metric horsepower rating by 1.014 to get the brake horsepower rating.- Glenn Law

Evinrude 250 FICHT Ram Injection

The 250 hp with FICHT Ram Injection from Evinrude owes its performance to the same computer-controlled injection system that lies at the heart of the entire Evinrude line. Performance benefits include a faster hole shot, instant acceleration across the power band and higher top-end speeds. The FICHT system delivers 35 percent better fuel economy, up to 50 percent less oil consumption and up to 80-percent reduction of emission over carbureted two-stroke designs. In some cases performance exceeds four-strokes in the same horsepower class. The 250 is available in 30- and 25-inch shaft lengths for a variety of offshore applications. The 35-amp alternator and charging system incorporates battery isolation and voltage regulators to ensure power to all accessories, even at trolling speeds. Systems are protected by SystemCheck, an exclusive warning system that monitors oil levels, water temperature and engine operation. Super S.L.O.W. (Speed Limit Overheat Warning) automatically reduces operating speed when it senses conditions that could damage the power head. Bombardier, Sturtevant, WI; (847) 689-7090; www.evinrude.com.

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Johnson 175

|The Johnson 175 from Bombardier is built on a V-6 block and is loop-charged, oil-injected and weighs in at 375 pounds. Featuring two, triple-throated carburetors, the optical ignition system provides fast, sure starts. The PowerPath induction system ensures outstanding out-of-the-hole performance and acceleration. The Top Charge 35-amp alternator includes a voltage regulator in the system to keep batteries charged and power all electronics at any operating speed. Cooling system is auto pressure-temperature controlled and coupled to the S.L.O.W. (Speed Limit Overheat Warning) sensor system to monitor all engine functions for problems that could cause damage. The 175 is available in both 20- and 25-inch shaft lengths. Bombardier, Sturtevant, WI; (847) 689-7090; www.johnson.com.|

Tohatsu 40 TLDI

New from Tohatsu for 2003 is the 40-hp TLDI. This introduction complements existing 50-, 70- and 90-hp models using the TLDI (Two stroke, Low Pressure Direct Injection) system pioneered by Tohatsu, and also manufactured for Nissan Marine. The award-winning TLDI system shatters fuel into microscopic droplets and positions the fuel plume in the optimal location in the combustion chamber at exactly the right time. The micro droplets burn more completely, which benefits efficiency and reduces emissions while allowing optimal performance and speed. The 40 TLDI weighs 210 pounds and can be mounted for either tiller or remote steering, increasing the versatility and range of fishing boats to which it may be adapted. Idle and trolling speed is variable from 700 rpm to 900 rpm – opened up it turns between 5150 and 5850 rpm, swinging a prop pitched over a range of seven to 16 inches. All TLDI outboards meet EPA 2006 and CARB regulations through 2007. Beginning in 2003, all TLDI outboards from Tohatsu will come with a three-year warranty. Tohatsu America Corporation, Carrollton, TX; (972) 323-6003; www.tohatsu.com.

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Cummins MerCruiser Diesel QSM11

|The QSM11 from Cummins MerCruiser Diesel is a heavy-duty six-cylinder inline four-stroke diesel that delivers 669 metric horsepower. The four-cycle design provides quiet and efficient operation. The engine features a low profile for ease of installation and easy service access. Replaceable wet cylinder liners allow for longer life and lower rebuild costs. The low-profile heat-exchanger configuration works with a standard closed-crankcase ventilation system. A large-capacity sea-water aftercooler provides long life and a cladded dry-exhaust manifold increase fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. The Cummins electronic Quantum Fuel System optimizes combustion to boost performance and increase efficiency. The QSM11 is available in both 12- and 24-volt configurations. Backup throttle, digital interface engine synchronization, cruise control, idle speed control and slow idle are available as options. Cummins MerCruiser Marine, Charleston, SC; (800) DIESELS; www.cummins.com.|

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MerCruiser MX 6.2 MPI Horizon Inboard

The new MerCruiser MX 6.2 MPI Horizon Inboard offers specifically marine-designed components built on a long-stroke 377CID/6.2L engine, constructed to provide high torque and 320 horsepower. A new dry-joint exhaust system eliminates a potential leak path, reduces buildup of condensation and decreases the threat of water ingestion for longer engine life. Except for periodic fluid-level checks and seasonal oil changes, Horizon engines are virtually maintenance free and feature a three-year extended maintenance interval and a three-year limited warranty against corrosion. The remote-mounted oil filter is within easy reach for simple, clean oil changes, which, along with the easy-drain oil system, brings simplified maintenance to a new level. The top-mounted starter is mounted away from the bilge for dependable starting and extended life. The 50-amp/706-watt circuit breaker prevents overloading of the electrical system and is easy to reset, eliminating the need for fuses. MerCruiser, Stillwater, OK; (800) MERCURY; www.mercurymarine.com.

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Crusader Captain’s Choice 5.7

|The new Captain’s Choice 5.7 from Crusader, a division of Pleasurecraft Engine Group, is built on the proven GM Vortec block, which utilizes MEFI-4, General Motors’ fourth-generation multi-port, fuel-injection system. The EFI system features GM electronics and provides instant starting, smooth idling, excellent performance and outstanding fuel economy. Crusader fuel injection utilizes the Pleasurecraft Fuel Control Cell (FCC), a dual-pump device that protects the entire fuel system with a 10-micron fuel filter /water separator. The system eliminates the possibility of fuel starvation and vapor lock to provide trouble-free operation. The 5.7 delivers 330 horsepower. The same engine is also offered under the Sea Maxx brand as a repowering option. Crusader, Little Mountain, SC; (803) 345-1337; www.crusaderengines.com; www.seamaxx.com.|

Detroit Diesel Series 2000

The Series 2000 from Detroit Diesel features an electronic control system that manages fuel and air systems for maximum output, cleaner running and precise control. Split-circuit cooling provides maximum-charge air cooling for top-end performance while minimizing white smoke. Triple-wall exhaust manifolds retain heat for turbocharger performance while maintaining low surface temperatures. The cooling system is built around a titanium modular heat exchanger with integral fuel cooler, fed by a gear-driven raw-water pump with four-inch hose intercoolant recovery bottle. Individual cylinder heads reduce thermal stress and ensure long compression-seal life. The high-capacity oil pump feeds three oil galleries for maximum lubrication, cooling and piston life. The Series 2000 is available in 1,800 bhp and 1,973 bhp. Each comes with a five-year transferable warranty with no hour or regional restrictions. Detroit Diesel, Detroit, MI; (313) 592-5000; www.detroitdiesel.com.

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