posted 07-10-2005 03:26 AM ET (US)        

I have also been discussing the E-TEC with other fisherman and almost all have the same comments: They all like the E-TEC engines, and think the technology is great, but are afraid there are just not enough dealers and mechanics who would be able to fix the engine (in a normal time frame)if anything should go wrong. I personally am unsure and have my doubts. After reading some of the posts here on this forum it would also make me hesitant to buy one. Remember, here in Europe it seems they are always one step behind when it comes to marine outboard engines built in the USA. I was wondering if the official dealerships give their mechanics the same training as their US colleagues. If something serious should go wrong with the engine over here would everything have to be coordinated via the factory in the USA and make the repair take even longer? Remember there is at least a 6 hours time difference and when a mechanic picks up the phone and wants to make an enquiry, the other party could still be sleeping.

After finishing the last project (Henry's 17-ft Guardian with 70-hp Suzuki) I am helping another friend who just purchased a 1984 17-Montauk. This is the next project, as our little fishing fleet of Boston Whalers keeps growing. I am trying to convince him to repower with an E-tec, 90-hp but as mentioned above, there still are some doubts.

I think the E-TEC is THE motor for the 17-Montauk because of it's weight/power ratio. The DF 70 Suzuki is fine but at the absolute weight limit IMO. The Mercury 60 EFI is also a fine engine and very light but limited in power. Yamaha and Honda 90's are also too heavy IMO. Any inside information on the E-TEC would be appreciated. Thanks,

posted 07-10-2005 09:20 AM ET (US)            

We are somewhat spoiled here in the States because we have been dealing with domestic manufacturers and distribution chains for decades. The idea of waiting for a part to come from overseas is relatively new for us. The Japanese manufacturers have been selling their engines abroad for many decades. I think in some ways they do a better job of selling outside of their domestic market than the American manufacturers, who grew up principally selling only to a domestic market and only recently added overseas sales.

posted 07-10-2005 01:10 PM ET (US)            

I'm pretty sure that most people are satisfied with their E-TEC engines up till now. Those who are having problems will probably be supported by the dealer and the factory in every way possible. At least this is the case in the USA as far as I can read it. But would this be the case in Europe?

If I look at the Belgian dealerships (as an example) these are all dealers that sell multiple engine brands. Their main concern is selling engines (any type). They are most likely able to repair any classic type 2-stroke engine with no problems. But when it comes to repairing anything that's a bit more complex, experience has taught us that most are not up to it. Name any brand and you will find people complaining about the lack of competent mechanics and expertise at dealerships. Mercury seems to have the best factory educated mechanics in a radius of 100km of the area where I live.

The general rule you describe is also true: "the local dealership will have an influence of what motor is popular. If he sells a particular brand and does a good job of supporting it, that brand will be popular". That's why you see many Honda's in one part of the country and Yamaha's in another part.

As excellent as the E-TEC seems to be, the product support is just as important as the product itself. Especially with high-tec, complex engines like the E-TEC. Hopefully BRP will educate their mechanics to the same level as their American colleagues.

posted 07-31-2005 03:52 AM ET (US)            

I was able to convince him to go for it. After a long visit with one of the larger BRP dealers it seemed quite clear that these people and their mechanics knew what they were talking about. They have had extensive training and were aware of all of the little details that have been discussed here on the forum in the past year. That sure gave me a confidence boost.

After a short visit last week to the south of France (Lavandou)I was amazed at the number of boats with E-TEC engines mounted on the transom. There were many more in comparison to the numbers I see around here in the low countries. I also counted 5 Whalers at the local harbour.
(2xMontauks, 1xAlert, 1x150 Sport and a 220 Dauntless)

One more thing. As I understand it, in the States you have the option to buy a 2-year extended warranty for the E-TEC. This is not possible in Europe except for the Scandinavian countries.

Erik