Ever since human beings have been traveling on the water we’ve been seeking faster and more efficient ways to do so. From oars and sails to jets and propellers— technology has been adapted to marry speed and efficiency, but in the smallest package possible.
More often, today’s boaters are opting for outboard engines for their “go-fast, get-there” boating needs. And why not? The advantages of an outboard engine are numerous. No through-hull requirement for engine cooling, ease of access for engine maintenance, more horsepower for engine weight, ever-adapting technology for greater fuel economy, relatively simple installation, and an increase in the vessel’s overall maneuverability.
Choosing your first outboard can be an overwhelming task as there are so many options on the market, but fear not; we outline some of the best out there and provide a guide below to aid in your decision-making. Read on!
We’ll start by reviewing different types of outboards and then categorizing each engine by horsepower ranges (small/portable, medium, and large) and highlight their features and benefits.
Torqueedo Travel 1103 CS
If budget isn’t an option, and an environmentally-conscious outboard engine is a priority of yours, Torqueedo is the leader in the electric-powered outboard engines with long and powerful battery life, durable construction, and thrust capabilities comparable to its internal combustion counterparts. They are also extremely portable and lightweight.
Specs & Features
- Weight:: 24.9 lbs
- Comparable Thrust Output:: 3 HP
- Engine Type:: Electric Outboard Motor
- Compatible Apps:: iOS & Android
Things we like:
- beefy construction materials that are resistant to the elements
- Powerful lithium batteries
- Smooth and quiet operation
- Environmentally friendly
- Disassembles into 3 parts for easy transportation
- Can be solar-charged while in operation
Things we don’t like:
- Nearly 3x as expensive upfront as a gas-powered outboard
- Requires battery charging capabilities not included with the engine
Mercury Racing 60R
The Mercury Racing designs incorporate a shorter shaft/lower unit assembly to lower the engine’s center of gravity ideal for shallow-water performance that anglers seek. For this reason, bass hunters are particularly fond of this model.
Things we like:
- Lower center of gravity than its 60HP counterparts
- Short shaft ideal for shallow water operating
- Easy maintenance
Things we don’t like:
- Heavier design than other 60HP engines
Honda BF75DK4LRTC Outboard Motor
Description
Honda Marine BF75DK4LRTC L-Type, 20 in. Shaft
Four Cylinder, 20″ Long shaft, Blast™, NMEA 2000 Compliance, Electric Start, Remote Steering, EFI, Power Tilt & Trim.Power, performance and efficiency. The BF75DK4LRTC L-Type, with a 20 in. shaft has everything you need in a mid-range outboard. Boosted Low Speed Torque (BLAST®), Multi-Port Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI®) and High Performance Gearcase make it a true powerhouse, and thanks to Lean Burn Control®, it can run on a leaner mix of air and fuel, making it especially efficient. (The BF75DK4LRTC L-Type does not come with a propeller.)
Performance and Efficiency
- Four-Stroke Design: World-renowned Honda quality combines proven reliability and superior fuel efficiency, with no oil mixing.
- Lightweight: Weighing in at only 162 kg (357 lb), the BF75DK4LRTC L-Type is one of the lightest motors in its class. It’s perfect for inflatables, skifs, and fishing boats.
- Programmed Fuel Injection: Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI®) delivers the precise amount of fuel/air to each cylinder. The result is easy starts and instant throttle response with superior fuel efficiency.
- Lean Burn Control®: Lean Burn Control® increases fuel efficiency by allowing combustion to operate on a leaner air/fuel mixture. At cruising speed, this engine runs on up to 10% less fuel than others in its class.
- BLAST® System: Boosted Low Speed Torque, or BLAST®, improves acceleration at low speeds. A quick movement of the throttle control activates the BLAST® system, advancing the ignition curve aggressively. “Hole Shot” is vastly improved as more horsepower gets the hull up on plane quicker.
- High Performance Gearcase: Designed to get you going faster, this gearcase reduces drag, greatly reduces hull porpoise and minimizes spray, thus increasing acceleration and top speed. A longer anti-ventilation plate helps trap water flowing to the propeller to minimize proposing, while a streamlined front and longer bullet reduce drag for enhanced acceleration and fuel efficiency. A front splash plate reduces spray from the hull bottom, maintaining a dry deck above, and a 2.33:1 gear ratio affords the use of 13- to 14-inch diameter propellers for heavier loads.
- Torsion Dampener: Sometimes called a flywheel, it is located near the base of the powerhead. This design lowers the center of gravity for improved handling.
- SOHC 4-Valve/Cyl. Design: The BF75’s powerful 1.5 L, 4-cylinder design utilizes a single overhead cam, and two intake valves to deliver maximum torque and power.
Reliability and Durability
- Legendary Honda Reliability: The technology we applied to our 75 HP outboard engine is the very same that powers one of the most popular cars in the world, the Honda Fit.
- 3-Way Cooling System: Three separate cooling systems keep the cylinder heads ruing cooler for long-term durability.
- Engine Alert System: The Engine Alert System uses visual, audio and RPM reduction circuits to alert the operator of over-heating, low oil PSI and over-revving, preventing engine damage.
- Corrosion Protection System: The Corrosion Protection System is a patented “Double Sealed” multi-layered paint process. Sacrificial anodes and stainless steel technology, along with waterproof coectors, all enhance corrosion protection.
- Top-Mounted Electronics: The alternators, ignition and other critical electrical components are mounted near the top of the powerhead to stay cool and dry. The result? Dependable performance.
- Sealed Starter: The starter motor is inverted into a sealed chamber that protects the starter drive from the elements.
- Positive Lubrication: A crankshaft-driven, automotive-style trochoid oil pump ensures long-term durability of critical engine components.
- Fresh Water Flushport: Flushes debris and saltwater out of the engine, extending the life of the outboard.
- Ultra Low 3-Star CARB Emissions: Environmentally conscious technology. All Honda Marine engines exceed the highest CARB 3-Star rating to meet the rigorous California Air Resource Board’s standards.
- Warranty: As a testament to their quality and reliability, all Honda engines come with a three-year, non-declining, non-commercial warranty or a one-year commercial warranty.
Convenience and Ease of Use
- Superior battery charging: There’s always plenty of electric power with Honda’s exclusive neodymium magnet flywheel. The alternator develops 44 amps in total and 35 amps of charging amps, it’s twice the output of some competitors. It provides high output and keeps battery banks charged all day, even when ruing multiple accessories.
- Centre Mount Tiller: The ergonomically designed tiller handle is longer for improved handling. Adjustments for throttle and steering friction allow easier control. Up front shift lever, PTT switch, and engine alert lamps provide added convenience. The 3-Position Tiller Handle adjusts to your comfort for easiest hull manoeuvrability.
- 3-Position Tiller Handle: The 3-Position Tiller Handle adjusts to your comfort for easiest hull
- Easy Maintenance: An easy “screw-type” valve adjuster system requires no shims, which reduces maintenance costs. Front-mounted oil filter and oil filler make for easy maintenance.
- Built-in Pitot Tube(optional built-in Pitot Tube kit required): Built-in pitot tube in the gear case eliminates the need to drill holes in your boat for installation.
Engine
- Type: 4-Stroke SOHC; 4 Cylinder / 16 Valves
- Displacement: 91.4 cubic in. (1,496 cc)
- Bore & Stroke: 2.87 x 3.52 in. (73 mm x 89.4 mm)
- Full Throttle RPM Range: 5,000-6,000 RPM
- Propshaft Rated Horsepower: 75 HP @ 5,500 RPM
- Cooling System: Water Cooled
- Fuel Delivery: Programmed Electronic Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
- Recommended Fuel: Unleaded Gas. (Min. Pump Octane 86)
- Ignition System: MicroComputer Programmed
- Starting System: Electric
- Exhaust: Through Prop Hub
- Lubrication: Wet Sump
- Recommended Oil: SAE 10W30 API service classification SJ or later
- Oil Capacity: 3.90 Imp. qt (4.40 L) with oil filter repl.
- Trim Range: -4 deg. to +16 deg.
- Tilt Range: 68 deg.
- Steering Angle: 30 deg.
Drive
- Gear Ratio: 2.33:1
- Gear Shift: F-N-R
Equipment
- Alternator: 44 amp
- Battery Charging Power: 35 amp
- Power Trim & Tilt: Standard
- Oil Pressure Alert: Standard
- Over Rev-Limiter: Standard
- Temperature Alert: Standard
- Water in Fuel Alert: Standard
- Battery Condition Alert: Standard
- Speedometer Pickup: Standard
- Variable Speed Trolling Kit: Optional
Dimensions
- Overall Width: 17.7 in. (449 mm)
- Transom Height: 20 in. (508 mm)
Dry Weight
- LRTC-Type: 357 lbs. (162 kg)
Warranty
- Standard Warranty: As a testament to their quality and reliability, all Honda marine engines come with a warranty of 36 months for non-commercial use and 12 months for commercial use.
- Honda Plus Extended Warranty: Honda Plus extended warranty is now available for your marine engine. You can prolong your worry-free pleasure on specified parts and components even further.
Evinrude E105DPJL 105HP Outboard Motor
Description
Evinrude E105DPJL
Features may include:THRUST CONTROLGATE
- The simple technology of the two-position lift gate gives you forward and reverse capabilities without sacrificing durability.
POWER FOR THE SKINNIEST WATER
- A combination of the unmatched direct-injection torque and best-in-class power-to-weight ratio of the E-TEC Jet Series provides excellent shallow-water performance, unprecedented maneuverability and quiet operation. This outboard series goes where no propeller can go.
Where to buy Evinrude E105DPJL 105HP Outboard Motor:
Ans: Engines & Transmission Tan
Engine
Engine Type V6 60° E-TEC D.I.
Bore 3.62 in (92 mm)
Stroke 2.60 in (66 mm)
Displacement 158.2 Cu in (2.6 cc)
Throttle 5400 – 6000 RPM
Gear Ratio (Primary) 1:1
Steering Remote
Electric
Starter Electric
Alternator 133 Amps Total/50 Net
Fuel System
Fuel System E-TEC Direct Injection with stratified low RPM combustion mode
Dimensions
Length Shaft: 20 in (508 mm)
Weights
Weight 428 lbs (194 kg)
Features
Features Controls: Mechanical | Trim Method: FasTrak™ Power Trim and Tilt
wher to buy: Engines & Transmission Tan
Description
2021 Evinrude E10PGL4
EASY BOATING
- With a fast-idle choke system for easy and fast starting, Evinrude portable engines make boating that much easier
SIMPLE CONTROL
- Choose from optional features like front mount shift levers, shallow water drive and power tilt, these engines are made to make your next trip on the water the best ever.
COMPACT PERFORMANCE
- These engines have many features to offer in one small package. From an integral fuel tank to a flow-through prop for quiet ruing, they have everything you need to make your adventure on the water more enjoyable.
Engine
Engine Type 2-cylinder
Bore 2.17 in (55 mm)
Stroke 1.73 in (44 mm)
Displacement 12.8 Cu in (210 cc)
Throttle 5000-6000 RPM
Gear Ratio (Primary) Shaft length: 2.08:1
Steering Remote
Electric
Starter Electric
Alternator Only on Electric models only: 12V, 145W, 12A
Fuel System
Fuel System Carbureted
Dimensions
Length Shaft: 15 in (381 mm) | 20 in (508 mm)
Weights
Weight 103.6 lbs (47 kg)
Features
Features Controls: Mechanical | Trim Method: Power Tilt
Evinrude E15HPGX E TEC Outboard Motor
Where to buy Evinrude E15HPGX E TEC Outboard Motor: Engines & Transmission TAN
Description
2021 Evinrude E15HPGX
Features may include:HIGH OUTPUT SERIES
- The Evinrude E-TEC H.O. series are performance engines to the max. Each engine is tuned for extra power and speed. If you like pushing limits in horsepower, speed and torque, then consider our High Output Series.
AUTO-STORAGE
- The auto winterization feature fogs the engines itself in minutes, with no trip to the dealer. An Evinrude E-TEC engine does not require belts, camshafts or exhaust valves, which means there are fewer parts to wear down or malfunction than a four–stroke outboard. Extend the life of your outboard and your boating season
MORE MILES PER HOUR
- Get even more extra miles per hour with the Straight Leading Edge gearcase. The Evinrude SLE gearcase features high-efficiency water pickups and a weed-slicing shape up front, for a cooler-ruing engine and ultimate durability and reliability in the long run.
Engine
Engine Type Inline 2-Cylinder E-TEC D.I.
Bore 2.992 in (76 mm)
Stroke 2.5 in (64 mm)
Displacement 35 Cu in (575 cc)
Throttle 5000-5500 RPM
Gear Ratio (Primary) 2.15:1
Steering Remote (Tiller avail.)
Electric
Starter Electric and Rope
Alternator 56 Amps Total / 15 Amps Net Dedicated
Fuel System
Fuel System E-TEC Direct Injection with stratified low RPM combustion mode
Dimensions
Length Shaft: 25 in (635 mm)
Weights
Weight 184 lbs (84 kg)
Features
Features Controls: Mechanical | Trim Method: High Speed Power Tilt
Evinrude E-TEC 15 horsepower motor
The Evinrude E-TEC 15 HP motor is a direct-injected two-stroke outboard known for its high torque and “no dealer maintenance” schedule of 3 years or 300 hours. Although production of all Evinrude outboards ceased in 2020, these motors remain popular on the used market, particularly the High Output (H.O.) models designed for high performance and “kicker” applications.
| Feature | Specification (15 H.O. Model) |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Inline 2-Cylinder E-TEC Direct Injection |
| Displacement | 35.2 cu in (577 cc) |
| Weight | Approx. 181–187 lbs (82–85 kg) |
| Full Throttle RPM | 5,000 – 5,500 RPM |
| Alternator | 56 Amps Total / 15 Amps Net Dedicated |
| Fuel Induction | Stratified low RPM combustion mode |
Standout Features
- Worry-Free Maintenance: Designed with no break-in period, no oil changes, and no scheduled dealer maintenance for the first 3 years or 300 hours.
- Auto-Storage: Features an automatic “fogging” routine that prepares the engine for winter storage in minutes, which can be done by the owner without a dealer visit.
- Superior Control: The 15 H.O. was marketed as the only direct-injected kicker engine, offering precise micro-speed adjustments for trolling.
- Durability: Uses NASA-developed alloy pistons and lacks complex parts like belts, camshafts, or exhaust valves found in four-stroke engines.
Current Status & Support
- Availability: New units are no longer manufactured, but they are frequently found through used outboard retailers or private sales.
- Parts & Service: Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) continues to support the brand. Parts remain available through the official Evinrude dealer network and specialized retailers like Sea Way Marine.
- Considerations: Diagnostics require proprietary BRP software, so ensure you have access to a qualified technician who still services E-TEC system
Are you looking to buy a used 15 HP E-TEC, or do you already own one and need help with maintenance parts or a service manual? Engines & Transmission TAN got you
