| 2-Stroke Performance - 4-Stroke Economy | |
| The new big bore Evinrude E-TECs clearly show the direction in which BRP are heading with their low emission, low noise, direct injection technology that is packaged into what are essentially very compact, yet powerfully effective outboard motors.
I tested three new direct injection V6 models - the E-TEC 200, 225 and 250hp outboards, which share a common 3,278cc block. Bore and stroke also remains identical throughout the range. Both standard and counter rotating engines are available, which, along with the engine's narrow profiles, makes for easy twin-engine installation where applicable. Outwardly, the new 3.3 litre Evinrude E-TECs share a similar family profile with their smaller 40hp to 90hp counterparts. The big V6's still retain the typical E-TEC stance of ultra low profile, offering minimal intrusion above the transom, although the V6 configuration is, necessarily a little wider, than the smaller in-line engines. These new E-TECs at 235 to 240 kilograms are the lightest engines in their class. | |
| On water testing proved the new big bore Evinrudes to live up to the manufacturer's claims as well as the expectations of the review team. A 225 E-TEC fitted to a 6.0 metre Seafarer Victory fired up at the first turn of the starter motor, without the slightest hint of oil smoke, and pushed the craft to a stunning 55.2mph with three adults aboard.
The E-TEC signature sound was there as well; thanks to an efficient air silencer and muffler there was a surprising lack of engine noise even at full throttle. For those aboard test craft this was just as outstanding an engine feature as was the instant throttle response noted throughout the entire engine rev range. |
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| Sparkling fuel economy is also a feature of the new V6 E-TECs, which are claimed to deliver up to double the fuel efficiency of conventional 2-stroke engines in their class. Throttle range is from an ultra low 500rpm idle (most competitor's engines idle at around 700 to 750 rpm) through to 5,500 to 6,000 rpm and all engines demonstrated the E-TEC instant start capability with absolutely no engine smoke visible at either start up or during other use.
And that's what there big engines offer - performance of a 2-stroke coupled with the economy of 4-strokes. |
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| Ultra low emissions are as much a feature of these E-TECs as in earlier models, and levels below the USA's CARB 2008 3 star levels and Europe's EU 2006 compliance are standard.
Not surprisingly, BRP have seen immense interest from both dealers and consumers in their new E-TEC outboards. Under the cowling, these big E-TECs include a fly wheel damper, Schrader valves on both low and high pressure sides of the fuel system to facilitate service requirements, a corrosion resistant vapour separator, a modified and upgraded throttle position sensor designed to minimise vibration, as well as a unique single fuse which services the entire engine - in lieu of the eight on previous Evinrude large capacity engines. The new E-TECs utilise external oil reservoir tanks (the same as previous large capacity engines) and it is noted that there is no oil return fitting as the E-TEC's engine management system's minimal oil use does away with the need for a return of unused oil to the reservoir. |
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| The standard oil pump (a modified E-TEC injector) is designed to pump oil throughout the oil line connecting reservoir and engine. Oil levels are monitored via a low oil switch in the tank, connected and reporting directly to the E-TEC engine's electronic management system.
Other new components common to the new large capacity Evinrude E-TECs include a stator and CANbus support (Controller Area Network bus) capable of integrating the boat's engine, gauges and other accessories into a single network, greatly simplifying a boat's wiring harness. Also featured is a sealed starter solenoid, accessory battery charge connector plus two temperature sensors. A single, common and much simplified wiring harness allows rigging through a single outlet. | |
| As is standard with the E-TEC range, these new engines have boron nitride bores that require no break in period and are designed for continuous heavy-duty use. The Evinrude E-TEC non-declining three year / 300 hour unconditional engine warranty is also standard throughout the range of 10 new V6 E-TECs.
Hotted up HO (High Output) engines - right from the factory - will suit the performance minded and are also covered by this warranty. |
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maintained by Leisure Marine:
Friday, 29 August 2008
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3242 Old Cleveland Road, Capalaba 4157, QLD.
Phone: 07 3245 5111 Fax: 07 3245 1263
Email any enquiries about this site to updates@leisure-marine.com.au
3242 Old Cleveland Road, Capalaba 4157, QLD.
Phone: 07 3245 5111 Fax: 07 3245 1263