Evinrude / Johnson:
The first outboard motors built by Bombardier at their new manufacturing facility in Sturtevant, Wisconsin have been rolling out to dealers. Since taking over Evinrude and Johnson outboard motors, from OMC Corp. in early 2001, Bombardier have made some remarkable changes in a mammoth effort to get their outboards back in the marketplace. Because there are now significant differences between a Johnson and an Evinrude, we will review them separately.

2002 Evinrude horsepower offerings:
2 stroke: 75, 90, 115, 135, 150, 175, 200, 225, 250.
Over the last six years, Evinrude has been perfecting Ficht Ram injection. This direct fuel injection system for 2 strokes, has not only dramatically reduced emissions, but it has delivered some remarkable performance and fuel savings, over their previous models. When Bombardier took over Evinrude manufacturing they re-analyzed every engine and implemented a comprehensive plan to refine their performance and reliability. Add to this Bombardier’s strict quality control process and we can look forward in 2002, to top performing outboards from Evinrude. We also noted that the Evinrude line concentrates on the higher horsepower engines.

2002 Johnson horsepower offerings:
2 stroke: 25, 30, 40, 50, 90, 115, 150, 175.
As with Evinrude, the big news for Johnson is the take-over by Bombardier. While the Johnson brand has stood for dependability since 1921, the most significant change for the new model year is the Bombardier commitment to quality and ongoing reliability. The new Johnson motors will continue to include improved versions of such valued systems as "SystemCheck", for audio and visual engine warnings, the PowerPath induction system and optical ignition, for sure fast starts. While pricing is not included here, it seems that value at a low cost is the major selling feature with Johnson.
Bombardier provides a one-year limited warranty on Johnson outboards and a two-year limited warranty on Evinrude outboards.

Bottom line on Evinrude and Johnson: I wouldn’t be in a rush to buy either of these motors this year. There is not much new at Evinrude and Johnson is a little behind right now in their outboard technology. Furthermore, their warranty is low man on the industry totem pole. This is hard to say about engines with such a great history, but on the bright side, I would bet that within a couple of years, Bombardier will do some surprising things with the lines.

Honda:
2002 Honda horsepower offerings:
4 stroke: 2, 5, 8, 9.9, 15, 25, 30, 40, 50, 75, 90, 115, 130, 200, 225.
Honda Marine has just introduced a new V-6, 3.5 liter, 4 stroke outboard that will produce up to 225 hp. The fuel-injected engine will be offered in 200 and 225 hp versions. A compact 60 degree aluminum cylinder-block keeps the overall dry weight under 600 pounds. The valve system is taken from Honda’s Formula One racing efforts, whereby for each cylinder there are three intake cam lobs on the camshaft. The two outer cam lobs are for low rpm operation and operate the intake valves directly via the outer two rocker arms. At higher rpm’s the center rocker arm locks hydraulically into the two outer rocker arms and so doing brings into play the center rocker arm and valve. This system delivers a significantly stronger than normal power output at higher rpm’s plus great fuel savings at lower speeds.Drive and steering components, as well as fasteners are made of marine grade stainless steel for maximum durability and minimum rusting. The alternator is activated with an "on demand" belt drive that uses less crankshaft power and provides superior battery charging at all speeds.

Other new power plants from Honda include an 8 hp and a 9.9 hp. These engines are available with 15’, 20" and 25" shafts, making them ideal for fishing and pontoon boat operation.

Honda has been exclusively producing 4 stroke engines for over 35 years and sells them with a full 3 year, non-declining factory warranty.

Bottom line on Honda outboards: A sure bet. All outboards cost quite a bit these days, so what’s a little more money, if you can get a Honda. There is something for every application and every one is a 4 stroke, so you know they won’t be discontinued any time soon. And remember, Honda wouldn’t offer the best warranty in the outboard business if they thought their motors weren’t up to it.

Mercury Outboards:
2002 horsepower offerings:
4 stroke: 4, 5, 6, 9.9, 15, 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, 75, 90, 115.
2 stroke: 2.5, 3.3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9.9, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, 75, 90, 115, 125, 135, 150,
175, 200, 225, 250 300.

New to the Mercury 4 stroke outboard line this year are four redesigned models, the three-cylinder 30 hp and 40 hp, plus the four cylinder 50 hp and 60 hp. These EFI outboards are available in a number of different models. A belt driven, single overhead cam design results in fewer moving parts. A new lightweight intake manifold adds performance. The water-cooled fuel pump reduces the chances of vapor lock. The auto style iron valve-guides will increase wear resistance.

A new freshwater 175 XL EFI model has been added to the already extensive 2 stroke lineup from Mercury. The 2.5 liter OptiMax series that includes the 135 hp, 150 hp and this new 175 hp engines has been enhanced with a new thermoformed top cowling. These new cowlings are about half the weight of their injected molded predecessors.

In jet pump drives, Mercury has introduced a 200 hp OptiMax. It joins the existing jet drive horsepower units in 175 hp, 210 hp and 240 hp.

Mercury outboards come with a full two-year factory warranty, plus an additional year against corrosion.

The bottom line on Mercury outboards: With such an extensive model line-up and dealer network, we are sure to see Mercury everywhere we go this year. They have been very busy modifying and expanding in both 4 and 2 strokes, to remain a leading player no matter which way the outboard market swings. Some of the competition’s new products in recent years have raised the bar and made Mercury jump higher than they are used to jumping, in order to hold their share of market. Net-net is, you still won’t go wrong with a Mercury.

Nissan/Tohatsu:
2002 horsepower offerings:
4 stroke: 4, 5, 6, 10, 15, 18, 25, 30.
2 stroke: 2.5, 3.5, 5, 8, 9.8, 40, 50, 70, 90, 120, 140.
In the 4 stroke race, we see two new models for 2002; a 25 hp and a 30 hp. These three cylinder single overhead cam engines run very smoothly and use less than 2.5 gallons per hour at 5,500 rpm’s. A CDI ignition system is built to give boaters instant starting at all times. Overheat and oil pressure sensors automatically restrict engine rpm’s and signal the driver with both a light and a buzzer. Power trim is also available. You will find a number of big engine features incorporated into these new mid-size 4 strokes, making them ideal for a wide range of applications.
To their 2 stroke stable, Nissan / Tohatsu have added a new TLDI 70 hp model. The TLDI stands for two stroke direct injection. This is the Tohatsu / Nissan replacement for 2 stroke carburetion, that shatters measured amounts of fuel into microscopic droplets and shoots it into the combustion chambers. With TLDI, fuel economy goes up and emissions are reduced. This new 70 hp TLDI joins the existing 50 and 90 hp versions.
A two year limited warranty applies to Nissan / Tohatsu outboard motors.

The bottom line on Nissan and Tohatsu outboards: It’s a funny thing about these engines. In my experience, I have found them to be tough little performers yet I never see a Nissan on anybody’s birthday list. They kind of just show up on small boat packages. As a result, I wouldn’t shy away from one that is part of a boat package, but I wouldn’t think of one as a hot investment.

Suzuki:
2002 horsepower offerings:
4 stroke: 9.9, 15, 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 90, 115, 140.
2 stroke: 5, 6, 150, 225.
Like most manufacturers, Suzuki is seriously developing their line of 4 strokes and the big news for 2002 is their new DF140EFI. At only 410 pounds, this technically advanced engine weighs less than any comparable fuel injected four-stroke presently in production.
The new engine cover is designed for increased airflow to the long pipe intake manifold. Performance starts with a 4 cylinder block with dual overhead, two-stage cams, with four valves per cylinder. The 2.38:1 gear ratio allows the motor to turn a large diameter propeller for better acceleration and holding. Suzuki’s multi-port EFI system precisely monitors engine conditions in order to deliver the optimum amount of fuel to each injector, in sequence. The improvement in fuel economy and performance is significant. The DF140 is also the first 4 stroke outboard to feature a bolt-on, water-cooled, oil cooler.
An easily accessible oil drain plug and spin on filter, make oil changes simple and the fresh water flush port is a welcome standard feature for salt-water applications. A multi-function tachometer is included on all DF140’s.
A three year limited warranty is standard for every pleasure craft Suzuki outboard.

The bottom line on Suzuki outboards: This outboard line is highly under-rated. Everyone points out that the Honda Corporation has their car experience behind them but I never hear talk about Suzuki being a major car and truck manufacturer. Part of this is the way the Japanese market this product, including a concern for head to head comparisons incase they come up a sword width short or a year late in development. The other part is that North American boat manufacturers prefer to picture their boats with the most popular of motors. A sort of ‘catch 22’. If you have a chance to buy a Suzuki outboard and it’s a good deal, buy it.

Yamaha:
2002 Yamaha horsepower offerings:
4 stroke: 4, 6, 8, 9.9, 15, 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, 80, 100, 115, 200, 225.
2 stroke: 2, 3, 6, 8, 9.9, 15, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 75, 90, 115, 130, 150, 175, 200, 225, 250.

In the mid-horsepower range take a look at the new 4 stroke 60 hp Yamaha. It offers a host of new features such as a refined intake systems, clean air systems and longer engine mounts, all of which add up to a faster, cleaner, fuel efficient and quieter outboard.

In the large, 6 cylinder category, Yamaha have introduced the world’s first four stroke outboard, the F225. What is basically the same engine is also available in 200 hp. These 60 degree-V block, V6’s, sport a 24 valve, and double overhead cam for more power and fuel efficiency. Long-tube air intakes house the fuel injectors, resulting in an improved air intake and electrical wiring that is better protected by being further from the cowling. The new in-bank exhaust system reverses the conventional 4 stroke configuration, allowing space for the exhaust to exit downward, between the V block, for a more compact marine design. These Yamahas are available with counter rotating propellers, for twin-engine applications.

Yamaha engine gauges do a lot more than let you know the fuel level. The multi function liquid crystal gauge provides rpm’s, trim position, oil level/pressure, over-heat warning, engine hours and distance traveled.

Yamaha now has new power for their Jet Drives. Four stroke technology now replaces two-strokes in Yamaha’s line of Jet Drives. People who boat in shallow water, over sandbars or in rivers and prefer the advantages of a jet now have the added advantages of a 4 stroke. There are four Yamaha engine sizes equipped with jet drives; 40hp, 50hp, 80hp and a 115hp.

If you still have any doubt about Yamahas commitment to 4 strokes engines, note that they have now unveiled the world’s first 4 stroke personal watercraft, the FX140. This PWC is reportedly 30% more fuel efficient than 2 stroke models and with the lowest emissions in its class, there is virtually no exhaust smoke during operation.
Yamaha engines come with a three-year factory limited warranty.

The bottom line on Yamaha outboards: This company has grown the way it has, because it has consistently produced quality outboards at fair prices. That’s the best way to grow.
Few marine trade people today would argue with my opinion that a Yamaha is a great outboard motor to buy. Honda has a more experience with the 4 strokes, but Yamaha is right up there. And again - - check out their 3 year warranty.

Sterndrives or Inboard/Outboards:

Mercury Sterndrives:
Mercury offers a variety of drives on a huge selection of stern drive engines in the following horsepower ranges: 116, 135, 150, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 225, 235, 240, 250, 260, 270, 300, 320, 375, 425.

"SmartCraft" is the brand name that MerCruiser uses to describe its latest generation of engines. All SmartCraft models feature a highly refined multi-port fuel injection system that is controlled by an engine control module called the "555". This module monitors 64 internal functions. The improved engine monitoring by the 555 module permits automatic adjustments to important functions such as spark timing for better performance and reliability. New models with this technology include the 4.3 MPI (220 hp), the 5.0 MPI (260 hp) and the MX 6.2 MPI Horizon (320 hp).

The instrumentation system applied to all "Smart Craft" models is a big addition to overall quality of Mercury engines. Simply put, the SC series of gauges provide a wealth of information concerning the operation and status of your boat and motor, with simple easy to read and operate instruments. In addition to tachometer and speedometer, the SC1000 tells you trim level, coolant pressure, fuel consumption, fuel used, fuel range, miles per gallon, engine temperature, oil temperature, oil pressure, water depth, speed in mph / kph or knots, time, oil tank level, air temperature, course over the water, audible alarms and more. The SC5000 system adds fuel flow, cruise range, engine synchronization plus water and waste tank levels. Serious boaters will appreciate the added control and reduction of problems, made possible with these new SC systems.

In the high performance division, Mercury Racing has further beefed-up the HP 500 EFI and the HP575 Sci. The 8.2 liter cylinder block that is common to both engines is now precision CNC machined with shot-peened, forged steel, Mercury Racing connecting rods and forged aluminum pistons, for additional strength and durability.

Volvo Sterndrives:
2002 Volvo Sterndrive horsepower offerings:
135, 141, 161, 189, 190, 205, 218, 225, 260, 270, 285, 320, 375, 385, 415, 420, 475, 560.
This year, almost every engine in the Volvo gas, sterndrive line-up, has had a substantial increase in power. Accordingly, the designations are also being changed. Engines formerly designated Gi and GS, are now labeled Gxi and Gl respectively. All new models will be equipped with overheating alarms for exhaust gas temperatures. Furthermore, all seawater-cooled engines are now connected to freshwater flushing systems to reduce internal corrosion. Remote oil filters are also standard on all fuel-injected gasoline engines.
Volvo power will easy to spot this year, since all of their gas engines will be painted red in colour and sport a new cover design.

In the Volvo diesel sterndrive line-up, the new KAD300/DP caught our eye. This six-cylinder engine is packed with a compressor, turbo and after-cooler, all of which are controlled by an ‘Electronic Diesel Control’ unit that optimizes engine performance, fuel economy and exhaust emissions. It is mated to an all new DP-G Duoprop drive.

Yanmar Sterndrives:
2002 Yanmar Sterndrive horsepower offerings:
160, 200, 240, 260, 315.
Horsepower has been increased on all Yanmar sterndrives for 2002. With a choice of gear ratios and a match to MerCruiser Bravo I, Bravo II or BravoIII drives, Yanmar diesel power can now be applied to a wide variety of engine applications for new boats, or those re-powering. Considering the reliability and economy of diesel power these changes make Yanmar an excellent choice for the serious boater.

Inboards:

Caterpillar Inboards:
For 2002, Caterpillar marine engines range from 63 to 3,630 horsepower.

Crusader Inboards:
Crusader’s line of inboard power for motor-cruisers and sport-fishing yachts is called ‘Captain’s Choice’. They are built by the Pleasurecraft Engine Group, the largest manufacturer of gasoline engines in the world.
2002 Crusader offerings:
5.7 MPI - 330 hp; 8.1 MPI – 385 hp; 8.1 MPI – 425 hp.

Horsepower for the 5.7 liter MPI has been increased this year to 330, thanks to a new multi-port fuel injection system that has upgraded the control module, wire harness, intake system and fuel injectors.

Crusader motors include a number of exclusive features that serious boaters will appreciate, such as the Fuel Control Cell that eliminates the possibility of fuel starvation or vapor lock, for trouble free fuel system operations. A full fresh-water cooling system is standard on all Captains’ Choice inboards.

Crusader engines are backed by a standard one-year factory warranty, plus a two-year extended protection plan for a total of three years warranty. New buyers are enrolled in the ‘Crusader Captain’s Club’, which provides personalized assistance with any problems, a year of free towing should the need arise and marine insurance discounts.

Cummins:
For 2002, Cummins marine engines range from 155 to 644 horsepower.

Detroit Diesel:
For 2002, Detroit Diesel marine engines range from 700 to 3,650 horsepower.

Yanmar Inboards:
For 2002, Yanmar inboards range from 9 to 500 horsepower.

Volvo Penta Inboards:
For 2002, Volvo inboard gas and diesel marine engines range from 10 to 738 horsepower.
The new 285 hp Volvo Penta diesel previously described, is also made for inboard applications.

Mercury Inboards:
For 2002, Mercury gas inboard marine engines range from 260 to 420 horsepower, including the new 320 hp MX 6.2 MPI Horizon.