The recent season brings a lineup of powerful engines and digital accessories.
By
Dave Lear
Updated: March 25, 2014
Yamaha F115
Yamaha’s next generation 115 four-stoke is the lightest in its class and sports increased power too. It tips the scales at 377 pounds, 24 pounds lighter than its predecessor, due to a composite lower pan and cowling, single ram trim and tilt, and a new mounting bracket. The new powerhead has increased bore and stroke for a displacement of 1.8 liters. The double-overhead-cam four-cylinder design has larger intake and exhaust valves for more power and better midrange torque. A knock sensor allows the engine to operate constantly at peak output, resulting in noticeable acceleration. The F115 is available in both left- and right-handed rotation for twin applications. yamahaoutboards.com
Suzuki DF175G
Joining the DF250AP and DF300AP big blocks, Suzuki is now offering the popular DF150 and DF175 outboards with the company’s Precision Control. This system provides electronic fly-by-wire control of both throttle and shift for smoother and more-precise functions. The system also interfaces with Lean Burn Control to improve fuel economy over a wider range of rpm. It is programmed to protect the engine and drive system against damage due to mishandling. The system operates in single-, twin-, triple- and quad-engine applications, as well as dual stations. Rigging is simplified, requiring reduced time for installation and adjustment, saving labor costs. There’s one more change for model-year 2014: Buyers now have a color choice — traditional shadow black metallic or cool white in the DF150 and larger engines.suzukimarine.com
Mercury Diesel TDI 4.2L V-8
Designed for convertibles and cuddy cabins up to 45 feet, Mercury’s new TDI 4.2-liter -turbocharged V-8 engine is noteworthy for its low noise and vibration while delivering outstanding -acceleration due to an impressive power-to-weight ratio. The twin variable-geometry -turbochargers provide peak torque at 2,750 rpm with virtually no turbo lag. These latest TDI engines, which are matched to Bravo -sterndrives, are -Mercury SmartCraft compatible. This capability allows the operator to access dozens of engine, boat and navigation functions through Mercury’s SmartCraft digital gauges and multifunction displays. Another advantage is the optional digital throttle-and-shift control systems and Mercury Axius joystick docking control. The TDI engines are backed by the SeaCore corrosion protection. mercurymarine.com
Tohatsu BFT250
The new year marks a new collaboration between Tohatsu and Honda Motor Company. Tohatsu will now be offering customers four-stroke outboard engines from 60- to 250-horsepower. The new engines will give the Tohatsu Outboard brand a full lineup of outboard motors from 2.5 hp up to the 250. The midsize and full-size engines will be available in the United States starting in January. With this development, the company now offers both four-stroke and direct-injection two-stroke models in the popular midrange-horsepower class. The six-cylinder BFT250 provides more than 218 cubic inches of displacement, and features Honda’s proven PGM Fuel Injection, BLAST technology, Variable Valve Timing, and Lift Control for smooth and fuel-efficient performance. tohatsu.com
Evinrude 90 H.O.
For the weight-sensitive flats-boat market, Evinrude is now offering the 90 High Output E-TEC outboard in 20- or 25-inch shaft models. Producing more than 105 cubic inches of power for quicker acceleration and top speeds, this direct-injection engine also offers increased torque for better hole shots. The lightweight design gives improved fuel efficiency and superior visibility when planing due to reduced stern squat. It has a high-output alternator to deliver plenty of power to run onboard electronics. The 90 H.O. — along with all E-TEC models — now sports a new graphic design.** ** evinrude.com
Volvo-Penta D3-220 Diesel Sterndrive
Inboard innovator Volvo-Penta is making inroads into the traditional outboard segment this season as it teams up with builders to offer a sterndrive alternative. Florida’s Edgewater Powerboats is the first to offer Volvo’s D3-220 diesel sterndrive on its 230 model. The benefits of this package include substantially better fuel economy at cruising speeds, increased reliability, better acceleration and longer range. With the Duo Prop drives, control is enhanced, and there are no outboards to get in the way of fishing. Joystick Docking is also available with twin engines. With its five cylinders and lean weight of 800 pounds, the engine has a displacement of 2.4 liters, and the common rail fuel injection systems burns just over 12 gallons per hour at 4,000 rpm wide-open throttle. volvopenta.com
Yanmar 8LV-370Z
Yanmar Marine adds to its diesel sterndrive lineup with the 8LV-370V engine. This exceptionally quiet and compact engine has a wide power band, with adjustable idle speeds as low as 550 rpm for trolling. It tops out at 3,800 rpm. The twin turbos spool up quickly for low-end torque yet deliver maximum flow at higher rpm. At 992 pounds, the 8LV has the best -power-to-weight ratio in its class. The alternator -produces an output of 180 amps to power all the necessary marine electronics. In twin applications, a power inverter on smaller vessels may eliminate the need for a generator, further reducing weight and cost. Twin engines connected to Yanmar’s ZT370 hydraulic clutch, with counterrotating prop sterndrives, can be fitted with the company’s new joystick control system for independent steering and shifting.**** us.yanmar
