E-TEC--Undertones of Hate? - Moderated Discussion Areas

  ContinuousWave
  Whaler
  Moderated Discussion Areas
  ContinuousWave: Whaler Performance
  E-TEC--Undertones of Hate?

search | FAQ | profile | register | author help

Author Topic:   E-TEC--Undertones of Hate?

NJCoastFlyFish posted 09-02-2006 01:58 PM ET (US)
I really like the stats on Evinrude's new E-TEC 90: small, powerful, efficient. The problem is on this site I keep seeing little comments that make me think otherwise. I tried a search and couldn't find one post describing the problems people are having with the E-TEC! Anyone have any horror stories they want to share?
And if there was a post already than direct me to it, I would love to read it!
crabby posted 09-02-2006 05:04 PM ET (US)
Search out some of my posts starting around September 2004 thru late October 2004. Look for another minor post from early June of this year, and I also posted sometime in late winter or early spring this year about another surprise (technically operator error but nonetheless something to be aware of).
I still have the motor and use it almost daily. I would even recommend it with some caveats over a traditional 2 stroke. But they are machines and not every one is perfect. As my dealer said to me, warranties are a good thing...
JayR posted 09-02-2006 05:06 PM ET (US)
I've got a 150. Other than a throttle cam upgrade, everything is great....
an86carrera posted 09-02-2006 06:06 PM ET (US)
I love my 2000 200hp Ficht a predecessorto the E-tec.
Buy the diagnostic software.
len
bigjohn1 posted 09-03-2006 06:02 AM ET (US)
Based on what I have read here and on other boating boards, the E-tec is good reliable and fuel-efficient outboard. A couple of local fishing buddies run the 90hp model and they love them. From the reports I have read, a few have had minor hiccups with them that were quickly rectified.
ratherwhalering posted 09-03-2006 11:18 AM ET (US)
I can report one problem with my 2004 E-TEC 90. A few years ago I had faulty fuel injector/wire that caused an intermittent power loss after about 50 or so hours. It was diagnosed by my local Evinrude dealer, and repaired under warranty. I'm coming up on my 3 year/300 hour service, and have enjoyed the engine thoroughly. It starts with one revolution, is powerful, smokeless and quiet.
andygere posted 09-03-2006 02:15 PM ET (US)
I am thrilled with my 2007 E-TEC 200. Fast, quiet, instant starts, no smoke and stingy on fuel. I fully recommend this engine based on my experience thus far.
fourdfish posted 09-03-2006 04:21 PM ET (US)
I have 2 years on my 200hp ETEC. Love it!
VI Jamie 22 posted 09-03-2006 05:41 PM ET (US)
Locally, We have a 70 foot catamaran sailboat, with one 90 Etec for about 800 hours and about 3 years. They have had 2 break downs. One bad injector, and a starter. The owner said that he is ready for another 90. I asked him why and he said he had never had any engine last this long. I said, don't buy a new engine until he needs it, and he agreed.
erik selis posted 09-04-2006 05:00 AM ET (US)
I restored a 1984 Montauk last year and placed a new 90-hp E-Tec on it. I immediately sold the boat to a friend of mine after the boat was completed. The engine now has more than 120 hours on it and he is very pleased with it. We had a small problem after 50 hours of use where the engine rpm's would fluctuate between 1100 and 1500 rpm without touching the throttle. The dealer solved this problem and said it had something to do with a bad contact of wires that were painted during the production of the engine.
All in all a great engine and a perfect match for the classic Montauk hull. Quiet at slow speeds, no smoke, starts first time every time, very fuel efficient, light and plenty of bite and power.
Erik
NJCoastFlyFish posted 09-04-2006 11:44 AM ET (US)
What about the members on this forum that had a 90 e-tec on the smirkless and smirked 16/17's that reported they couldn't break into the 40's, or I think one said he couldn't get past 35? Does anyone have any e-tec 90 numbers on a 16ft hull (or 17) hull, maybe JimH can use this in his repowering section? Maybe even some gas usage reports for this engine. I think it would be a PERFECT match for my hull, but the suzuki 70 4 stroke is it's competition and its hard to beat- Tom
Sofar people are reporting no major issues but lots of small headaches, I don't think I would have a problem as long as it doesn't leave me stranded and it doesn't happen AFTER my warrantee is up
crabby posted 09-04-2006 03:52 PM ET (US)
NJCFF:
Wow, you've come a long way since you wanted to trade me some lures for my old 70hp!
Either that Suzuki or the E-TEC will serve you well; just buy the extended warrantee for peace of mind.
pm
NJCoastFlyFish posted 09-04-2006 04:44 PM ET (US)
Crabby LOL- Yeah I know, I had to bite the bullet and sell another boat 24ft Grady offshore in order to scrape the money together but atleast I will have a good reliable set up for the next 10 years with an 06/07 engine
crabby posted 09-04-2006 06:20 PM ET (US)
Good move, I don't think you will regret it whichever powerplant you go with!
Buckda posted 09-05-2006 10:53 AM ET (US)
I do not have any helpful information on the performance of these engines on your hull, however, I have two 2006 model 90 HP E-TEC engines bolted to my 18' Outrage.
Aside from a harmonic from the two engines at a certain RPM level (Slow speed, above "no-wake" but below planing...so rarely used), they have been virtually flawless.
The engine is very quiet at idle, and has a pleasant tone on plane.
I've had no problems requiring dealer service, other than some advice when I was getting a "no Oil" alarm right after purchase. (If this happens, it's typically an air bubble in the line - run the self-winterization procedure in the manual a few times to clear it).
The longest non-stop run I've done was 111 miles two weekends ago and they run flawlessly.
The one thing I've had to do this season was re-gap the plugs. The FICHT/E-TEC technology (as well as OptiMax and HPDI) is tough on sparkplugs. Last weekend I noticed a slight hesitation on one engine...I think It's about time I re-checked the gaps on those plugs, since I'm now at around 130 hours on the engines.
I see incredible economy at idle on one engine, and see around 4 MPG or so at cruise with BOTH engines running (last weekend on a circumnavigation of Drummond Island and run back to Cedarville (about 100 miles) - I burned a little over 40 gallons of fuel, with two passengers and facing 3-4 footers on the 30 mile run to Cedarville). You should see better than 6 MPG, I would guess.
Dave
ratherwhalering posted 09-05-2006 11:39 AM ET (US)
Here's a link to some performance date on a 1987 Montauk-17 with a 2004 E-TEC.
http://continuouswave.com/ubb/Forum4/HTML/004278.html
NJCoastFlyFish posted 09-06-2006 09:42 PM ET (US)
Perfect, just the info I was looking for-Thanks!
Peter posted 09-07-2006 07:47 AM ET (US)
Dave -- The HPDI technology is not tough on plugs. Unlike the FICHT, E-TEC and OPTIMAX, it does not run a stratified charging mode. The reason that motors with stratified charging mode are harder on plugs is that in the stratified charging mode the plugs are fired multiple times per stroke to make sure that the fuel plume within the cylinder is ignited. Unlike the FICHT, E-TEC and Optimax which use specialized spark plugs, the HPDI uses ordinary run-of-the-mill NGK plugs.
Because the HPDI does not use a stratified charging mode at idle and low operating speeds, the HPDI consumes more fuel at these low speeds, particularly idle speed, than the other motors do.
seahorse posted 09-07-2006 08:31 AM ET (US)
Just for clarification, the Yamaha HPDI motors use a fairly expensive special sparkplug that has dual ground electrodes.
Back when HPDI first came out, they advertised that regular NGK plugs could be used, unlike specialty plugs that the FICHT and Optimax had to use. Reports soon were coming in about fouled plugs, short plug life, and drivability problems. Yamaha then redesigned the ignition system and came out with these special dual ground electrodes where the gap is checked with a wire gauge between the concave end of each ground electrode and the center ceramic nose.
XStech posted 09-07-2006 12:45 PM ET (US)
---Unlike the FICHT, E-TEC and OPTIMAX, it does not run a stratified charging mode. The reason that motors with stratified charging mode are harder on plugs is that in the stratified charging mode the plugs are fired multiple times per stroke to make sure that the fuel plume within the cylinder is ignited.---
Optimax only fires once per rev per cylinder.
Peter posted 09-07-2006 01:12 PM ET (US)
Then why does the Optimax need expensive plugs? Heat of lean burn?
XStech posted 09-07-2006 01:52 PM ET (US)
-----Then why does the Optimax need expensive plugs? Heat of lean burn?----
Plus many other factors associated with DI technology.
macdougall70 posted 09-07-2006 02:02 PM ET (US)
I just traded in my original 1992 150 johnson for a 2007, 200 Etec and so far so good. Had 2nd thought about hanging a 200hp on my 18 Outrage but I am glad I did. Fuel is 75% better than that old Dog.
Peter posted 09-07-2006 02:06 PM ET (US)
Seahorse -- I assume that the older HPDIs built before a certain date still use the cheap plugs. Sparkplug chart seems to suggest this.
seahorse posted 09-07-2006 04:58 PM ET (US)
Peter,
The early HPDI motors that have not been upgraded (Yamaha only did the ones who complained to the dealer) still use the original style plugs. If you have an early model, you have to determine either by serial number or whether the coil primary connectors are gray (later model) or black (early model).
I don't have the exact specifics handy so it is best to consult with a knowledgeable dealer tech.
Buckda posted 09-07-2006 05:12 PM ET (US)
I don't believe that the E-TEC uses special plugs either.
Mine spec'd standard Champion plugs.
But the E-TEC motors ARE hard on plugs. I regapped them in August and am considering checking the gap again this weekend as I noticed a slight fumble at idle last weekend near the end of the weekend on one engine.
XS Tech - I thought that OptiMax ran a stratified charge below a certain RPM just like the E-TEC? I was suprised at your report otherwise, and likewise suprised at the fuel economy of the OptiMax motor without this stratified mode.
Does the OptiMax use the same "gapless" plugs (like the NGK BU8H) that the older Mercs ran? (Incidentally, I have to give kudos to the Merc engineers on that decision - despite being a little more expensive, these plugs are hard to foul and never need adjustment. You replace them once a year and forgetabout them.)

seahorse posted 09-07-2006 06:14 PM ET (US)
Buckda,
An E-TEC, depending on the model, uses either the Champion QC12PEPb or the QC10WEP plug. They are a standard configuration sparkplug, but have platinum or iridium components making them about $11 apiece from a dealer.
Optimax used to require an NGK model that was $22 per plug, but recently has an iridium version for about $14, unless the price changed recently. XStech can probably give us the latest pricing.
DFI motors do not use surface gap (gapless) plugs.
Buckda, if your E-TEC is "hard" on plugs, most likely something is not quite to spec. Usually it is temperature related, not getting hot enough at low speeds. Have a knowlegeable tech check the temps, software version.
Buckda posted 09-07-2006 06:49 PM ET (US)
Seahorse -
I did have my dealer check the temperature history on the engines in late July (2006), after I had re-gapped the plugs the first time.
they made a slight adjustment with the thermostats to allow a little more heat and re-sealed the gaskets with gasket glue, since that is not standard practice from the factory.
I had software updates in April (2006) when I took delivery and got a revision update on that visit in July.
I do not KNOW that the gaps are eroded again, since I haven't pulled the plugs yet, but I sensed a little hesitation that was indicative of the plug wear the last time I regapped them. Plugs were $8 each (I think) from my dealer - I bought 6 plugs from him the last time I was over there.
The motors are going back in for the recall fuel filters on Saturday (not tomorrow as I stated above). If there's a software update available, I'm sure I'll get it.
As I said before, I'm nothing if not happy with these motors. There have been no real problems. Being hard on spark plugs, in my opinion, is minor, and it was expected. The increased fuel economy, lack of smoke and quiet operation more than make up for the occasional need to pull the plugs and re-gap them.
XStech posted 09-07-2006 08:14 PM ET (US)
----XS Tech - I thought that OptiMax ran a stratified charge below a certain RPM just like the E-TEC? I was suprised at your report otherwise, and likewise suprised at the fuel economy of the OptiMax motor without this stratified mode.-----
Yes, Optimax runs stratified charge below WOT throttle. They just do it on one spark event per rev. The superior atomization of the fuel with the air injection allows for only one spark needed.
Paul J uk posted 09-08-2006 02:01 AM ET (US)
The motors are going back in for the recall fuel filters on Saturday (not tomorrow as I stated above). If there's a software update available, I'm sure I'll get it.
Buckda,
im due to have this done also
Whats the deal with the recall and what did they change?
Cheers
Paul J
NJCoastFlyFish posted 09-08-2006 08:05 AM ET (US)
Is it true that the E-Tec has an internal computer like that of a car that you can plug a programmer in to see all the stats of your engine?
Also it seems the E-tec gets about the same mileage as a Suzuki 4 stroke from what everyone is reporting-
Buckda posted 09-08-2006 10:55 AM ET (US)
Yes - they plug a computer in and you can see real-time data while the engine is running, including data from the injectors, etc. It's pretty cool.
At the end of the checkup, you can ask your dealer to print you a copy of the report, which graphically represents time of usage at given RPM's and temperatures, etc. (Wish my Ford Dealer did that!). It also lists all the "fault codes" triggered during that session of operation, and at what hour meter reading they came on. Pretty cool.
Paul -
There's another thread on the recall, but you can visit the evinrude website for additional information and to see if your motor is affected. Basically, they pressurized the fuel system at the factory during the test run before the motors shipped. They were trying to recreate maximum fuel pressure and apparently in some cases, they overpressured them and may have damaged the filter somehow. They have requested that the affected motors be returned to the dealers for replacement of the fuel filter.
Dave
fourdfish posted 09-08-2006 04:07 PM ET (US)
I have about the same hrs as Dave on my 2yr old 200hp 3.3L Etec engine and have not had to gap the plugs yet. Maybe the larger block engines are easier on plugs?
ratherwhalering posted 09-09-2006 03:01 AM ET (US)
The dealer software is really cool, just as Dave describes. You can even manually fire each fuel injector, without the engine running, to test its operation, and hear the "snap-snap" of it firing.
chopbuster posted 09-09-2006 01:35 PM ET (US)
A musing:
What I find so interesting are the similarities of marine engines and people in general.
Quite frequently either can be at one time so reliable and trouble free then in the blink of an eye become so undependable and a real pain in the ass
NJCoastFlyFish posted 09-13-2006 08:07 PM ET (US)
If they sold the programmer to the public like they do with cars I think that would pretty cool. I can buy a computer about the size of a game boy and see all my engine stats.
For my ford I know SCT II sells a programmer where I can set my speedo for different tire sizes, set my fuel lean rich and set my injectors for different cold air intakes, turn stuff on and off like traction control as well as a whole bunch of other things including the ability to plug it into a lap top and get real time data while running
If evinrude or suzuki or any outboard manufacturer is out there, if I could plug into the onboard computer and check my stats to put my mind at ease, I think that would be a major selling point if I could buy that accessory
montauk steve posted 09-13-2006 11:51 PM ET (US)
Buckda,
did you install the motors yourself or did you take the boat into the local dealer and have then do everything?
Also, I am wondering what the 300 hr tune-up is and what all it consists of? and a ball park price if anyone has had this done so far. There is tons of data and threads about guys loving the E-TECs, and the 300 hr service should be apart of this thread.
Question to all that have installed the motor themselves, do you guys get great service at the local dealer if there happens to be a problem?? say... faulty inj., or throttle cam is stuck/broken, or air in the oil line?

soon to have etec.
Buckda posted 09-14-2006 10:01 AM ET (US)
I did the install myself (search for a thread titled "Buckdas Babies" for details).
After installation, I took the boat to the dealer for a final inspection before firing the motors (see cetecea page 81 titled "Gambler On A Roll").
Since that inspection (April this year), I took the engines back in July (approximately 72 hours on the engines) for a well-being check and received a software update. Since they had a software update available, the check-up was free. Included was a little TLC from the dealer...he adjusted the thermostats and inspected throttle and shift linkages, etc.
Last weekend, I brought the engines back again (122 hours per engine) and received yet another software update and new spark plugs for free. The dealer also tightened the steering tube(?) which he commented sometimes vibrates a little loose on set-back installations such as mine. He showed me how to test for it and to tighten the nut myself.
I've received VERY good service from my dealer and though the service has been free, I've left with about 100-200 dollars of other purchases every time I've seen him, so I think he's generally happy on that front as well, plus I'm sure BRP is reimbursing him at a set rate for the EMM software updates.
I'm not to the 300 hours yet, but I would imagine I'll likely spend about $200 per motor (or less) on that service. I'll report back to this forum once I've reached that milestone.

Hop to:

Contact Us | RETURN to ContinuousWave Top Page

Powered by: Ultimate Bulletin Board, Freeware Version 2000
Purchase our Licensed Version- which adds many more features!
© Infopop Corporation (formerly Madrona Park, Inc.), 1998 - 2000.

Author	Topic: E-TEC--Undertones of Hate?
NJCoastFlyFish	posted 09-02-2006 01:58 PM ET (US) I really like the stats on Evinrude's new E-TEC 90: small, powerful, efficient. The problem is on this site I keep seeing little comments that make me think otherwise. I tried a search and couldn't find one post describing the problems people are having with the E-TEC! Anyone have any horror stories they want to share? And if there was a post already than direct me to it, I would love to read it!
crabby	posted 09-02-2006 05:04 PM ET (US) Search out some of my posts starting around September 2004 thru late October 2004. Look for another minor post from early June of this year, and I also posted sometime in late winter or early spring this year about another surprise (technically operator error but nonetheless something to be aware of). I still have the motor and use it almost daily. I would even recommend it with some caveats over a traditional 2 stroke. But they are machines and not every one is perfect. As my dealer said to me, warranties are a good thing...
JayR	posted 09-02-2006 05:06 PM ET (US) I've got a 150. Other than a throttle cam upgrade, everything is great....
an86carrera	posted 09-02-2006 06:06 PM ET (US) I love my 2000 200hp Ficht a predecessorto the E-tec. Buy the diagnostic software. len
bigjohn1	posted 09-03-2006 06:02 AM ET (US) Based on what I have read here and on other boating boards, the E-tec is good reliable and fuel-efficient outboard. A couple of local fishing buddies run the 90hp model and they love them. From the reports I have read, a few have had minor hiccups with them that were quickly rectified.
ratherwhalering	posted 09-03-2006 11:18 AM ET (US) I can report one problem with my 2004 E-TEC 90. A few years ago I had faulty fuel injector/wire that caused an intermittent power loss after about 50 or so hours. It was diagnosed by my local Evinrude dealer, and repaired under warranty. I'm coming up on my 3 year/300 hour service, and have enjoyed the engine thoroughly. It starts with one revolution, is powerful, smokeless and quiet.
andygere	posted 09-03-2006 02:15 PM ET (US) I am thrilled with my 2007 E-TEC 200. Fast, quiet, instant starts, no smoke and stingy on fuel. I fully recommend this engine based on my experience thus far.
fourdfish	posted 09-03-2006 04:21 PM ET (US) I have 2 years on my 200hp ETEC. Love it!
VI Jamie 22	posted 09-03-2006 05:41 PM ET (US) Locally, We have a 70 foot catamaran sailboat, with one 90 Etec for about 800 hours and about 3 years. They have had 2 break downs. One bad injector, and a starter. The owner said that he is ready for another 90. I asked him why and he said he had never had any engine last this long. I said, don't buy a new engine until he needs it, and he agreed.
erik selis	posted 09-04-2006 05:00 AM ET (US) I restored a 1984 Montauk last year and placed a new 90-hp E-Tec on it. I immediately sold the boat to a friend of mine after the boat was completed. The engine now has more than 120 hours on it and he is very pleased with it. We had a small problem after 50 hours of use where the engine rpm's would fluctuate between 1100 and 1500 rpm without touching the throttle. The dealer solved this problem and said it had something to do with a bad contact of wires that were painted during the production of the engine. All in all a great engine and a perfect match for the classic Montauk hull. Quiet at slow speeds, no smoke, starts first time every time, very fuel efficient, light and plenty of bite and power. Erik
NJCoastFlyFish	posted 09-04-2006 11:44 AM ET (US) What about the members on this forum that had a 90 e-tec on the smirkless and smirked 16/17's that reported they couldn't break into the 40's, or I think one said he couldn't get past 35? Does anyone have any e-tec 90 numbers on a 16ft hull (or 17) hull, maybe JimH can use this in his repowering section? Maybe even some gas usage reports for this engine. I think it would be a PERFECT match for my hull, but the suzuki 70 4 stroke is it's competition and its hard to beat- Tom Sofar people are reporting no major issues but lots of small headaches, I don't think I would have a problem as long as it doesn't leave me stranded and it doesn't happen AFTER my warrantee is up
crabby	posted 09-04-2006 03:52 PM ET (US) NJCFF: Wow, you've come a long way since you wanted to trade me some lures for my old 70hp! Either that Suzuki or the E-TEC will serve you well; just buy the extended warrantee for peace of mind. pm
NJCoastFlyFish	posted 09-04-2006 04:44 PM ET (US) Crabby LOL- Yeah I know, I had to bite the bullet and sell another boat 24ft Grady offshore in order to scrape the money together but atleast I will have a good reliable set up for the next 10 years with an 06/07 engine
crabby	posted 09-04-2006 06:20 PM ET (US) Good move, I don't think you will regret it whichever powerplant you go with!
Buckda	posted 09-05-2006 10:53 AM ET (US) I do not have any helpful information on the performance of these engines on your hull, however, I have two 2006 model 90 HP E-TEC engines bolted to my 18' Outrage. Aside from a harmonic from the two engines at a certain RPM level (Slow speed, above "no-wake" but below planing...so rarely used), they have been virtually flawless. The engine is very quiet at idle, and has a pleasant tone on plane. I've had no problems requiring dealer service, other than some advice when I was getting a "no Oil" alarm right after purchase. (If this happens, it's typically an air bubble in the line - run the self-winterization procedure in the manual a few times to clear it). The longest non-stop run I've done was 111 miles two weekends ago and they run flawlessly. The one thing I've had to do this season was re-gap the plugs. The FICHT/E-TEC technology (as well as OptiMax and HPDI) is tough on sparkplugs. Last weekend I noticed a slight hesitation on one engine...I think It's about time I re-checked the gaps on those plugs, since I'm now at around 130 hours on the engines. I see incredible economy at idle on one engine, and see around 4 MPG or so at cruise with BOTH engines running (last weekend on a circumnavigation of Drummond Island and run back to Cedarville (about 100 miles) - I burned a little over 40 gallons of fuel, with two passengers and facing 3-4 footers on the 30 mile run to Cedarville). You should see better than 6 MPG, I would guess. Dave
ratherwhalering	posted 09-05-2006 11:39 AM ET (US) Here's a link to some performance date on a 1987 Montauk-17 with a 2004 E-TEC. http://continuouswave.com/ubb/Forum4/HTML/004278.html
NJCoastFlyFish	posted 09-06-2006 09:42 PM ET (US) Perfect, just the info I was looking for-Thanks!
Peter	posted 09-07-2006 07:47 AM ET (US) Dave -- The HPDI technology is not tough on plugs. Unlike the FICHT, E-TEC and OPTIMAX, it does not run a stratified charging mode. The reason that motors with stratified charging mode are harder on plugs is that in the stratified charging mode the plugs are fired multiple times per stroke to make sure that the fuel plume within the cylinder is ignited. Unlike the FICHT, E-TEC and Optimax which use specialized spark plugs, the HPDI uses ordinary run-of-the-mill NGK plugs. Because the HPDI does not use a stratified charging mode at idle and low operating speeds, the HPDI consumes more fuel at these low speeds, particularly idle speed, than the other motors do.
seahorse	posted 09-07-2006 08:31 AM ET (US) Just for clarification, the Yamaha HPDI motors use a fairly expensive special sparkplug that has dual ground electrodes. Back when HPDI first came out, they advertised that regular NGK plugs could be used, unlike specialty plugs that the FICHT and Optimax had to use. Reports soon were coming in about fouled plugs, short plug life, and drivability problems. Yamaha then redesigned the ignition system and came out with these special dual ground electrodes where the gap is checked with a wire gauge between the concave end of each ground electrode and the center ceramic nose.
XStech	posted 09-07-2006 12:45 PM ET (US) ---Unlike the FICHT, E-TEC and OPTIMAX, it does not run a stratified charging mode. The reason that motors with stratified charging mode are harder on plugs is that in the stratified charging mode the plugs are fired multiple times per stroke to make sure that the fuel plume within the cylinder is ignited.--- Optimax only fires once per rev per cylinder.
Peter	posted 09-07-2006 01:12 PM ET (US) Then why does the Optimax need expensive plugs? Heat of lean burn?
XStech	posted 09-07-2006 01:52 PM ET (US) -----Then why does the Optimax need expensive plugs? Heat of lean burn?---- Plus many other factors associated with DI technology.
macdougall70	posted 09-07-2006 02:02 PM ET (US) I just traded in my original 1992 150 johnson for a 2007, 200 Etec and so far so good. Had 2nd thought about hanging a 200hp on my 18 Outrage but I am glad I did. Fuel is 75% better than that old Dog.
Peter	posted 09-07-2006 02:06 PM ET (US) Seahorse -- I assume that the older HPDIs built before a certain date still use the cheap plugs. Sparkplug chart seems to suggest this.
seahorse	posted 09-07-2006 04:58 PM ET (US) Peter, The early HPDI motors that have not been upgraded (Yamaha only did the ones who complained to the dealer) still use the original style plugs. If you have an early model, you have to determine either by serial number or whether the coil primary connectors are gray (later model) or black (early model). I don't have the exact specifics handy so it is best to consult with a knowledgeable dealer tech.
Buckda	posted 09-07-2006 05:12 PM ET (US) I don't believe that the E-TEC uses special plugs either. Mine spec'd standard Champion plugs. But the E-TEC motors ARE hard on plugs. I regapped them in August and am considering checking the gap again this weekend as I noticed a slight fumble at idle last weekend near the end of the weekend on one engine. XS Tech - I thought that OptiMax ran a stratified charge below a certain RPM just like the E-TEC? I was suprised at your report otherwise, and likewise suprised at the fuel economy of the OptiMax motor without this stratified mode. Does the OptiMax use the same "gapless" plugs (like the NGK BU8H) that the older Mercs ran? (Incidentally, I have to give kudos to the Merc engineers on that decision - despite being a little more expensive, these plugs are hard to foul and never need adjustment. You replace them once a year and forgetabout them.)
seahorse	posted 09-07-2006 06:14 PM ET (US) Buckda, An E-TEC, depending on the model, uses either the Champion QC12PEPb or the QC10WEP plug. They are a standard configuration sparkplug, but have platinum or iridium components making them about $11 apiece from a dealer. Optimax used to require an NGK model that was $22 per plug, but recently has an iridium version for about $14, unless the price changed recently. XStech can probably give us the latest pricing. DFI motors do not use surface gap (gapless) plugs. Buckda, if your E-TEC is "hard" on plugs, most likely something is not quite to spec. Usually it is temperature related, not getting hot enough at low speeds. Have a knowlegeable tech check the temps, software version.
Buckda	posted 09-07-2006 06:49 PM ET (US) Seahorse - I did have my dealer check the temperature history on the engines in late July (2006), after I had re-gapped the plugs the first time. they made a slight adjustment with the thermostats to allow a little more heat and re-sealed the gaskets with gasket glue, since that is not standard practice from the factory. I had software updates in April (2006) when I took delivery and got a revision update on that visit in July. I do not KNOW that the gaps are eroded again, since I haven't pulled the plugs yet, but I sensed a little hesitation that was indicative of the plug wear the last time I regapped them. Plugs were $8 each (I think) from my dealer - I bought 6 plugs from him the last time I was over there. The motors are going back in for the recall fuel filters on Saturday (not tomorrow as I stated above). If there's a software update available, I'm sure I'll get it. As I said before, I'm nothing if not happy with these motors. There have been no real problems. Being hard on spark plugs, in my opinion, is minor, and it was expected. The increased fuel economy, lack of smoke and quiet operation more than make up for the occasional need to pull the plugs and re-gap them.
XStech	posted 09-07-2006 08:14 PM ET (US) ----XS Tech - I thought that OptiMax ran a stratified charge below a certain RPM just like the E-TEC? I was suprised at your report otherwise, and likewise suprised at the fuel economy of the OptiMax motor without this stratified mode.----- Yes, Optimax runs stratified charge below WOT throttle. They just do it on one spark event per rev. The superior atomization of the fuel with the air injection allows for only one spark needed.
Paul J uk	posted 09-08-2006 02:01 AM ET (US) The motors are going back in for the recall fuel filters on Saturday (not tomorrow as I stated above). If there's a software update available, I'm sure I'll get it. Buckda, im due to have this done also Whats the deal with the recall and what did they change? Cheers Paul J
NJCoastFlyFish	posted 09-08-2006 08:05 AM ET (US) Is it true that the E-Tec has an internal computer like that of a car that you can plug a programmer in to see all the stats of your engine? Also it seems the E-tec gets about the same mileage as a Suzuki 4 stroke from what everyone is reporting-
Buckda	posted 09-08-2006 10:55 AM ET (US) Yes - they plug a computer in and you can see real-time data while the engine is running, including data from the injectors, etc. It's pretty cool. At the end of the checkup, you can ask your dealer to print you a copy of the report, which graphically represents time of usage at given RPM's and temperatures, etc. (Wish my Ford Dealer did that!). It also lists all the "fault codes" triggered during that session of operation, and at what hour meter reading they came on. Pretty cool. Paul - There's another thread on the recall, but you can visit the evinrude website for additional information and to see if your motor is affected. Basically, they pressurized the fuel system at the factory during the test run before the motors shipped. They were trying to recreate maximum fuel pressure and apparently in some cases, they overpressured them and may have damaged the filter somehow. They have requested that the affected motors be returned to the dealers for replacement of the fuel filter. Dave
fourdfish	posted 09-08-2006 04:07 PM ET (US) I have about the same hrs as Dave on my 2yr old 200hp 3.3L Etec engine and have not had to gap the plugs yet. Maybe the larger block engines are easier on plugs?
ratherwhalering	posted 09-09-2006 03:01 AM ET (US) The dealer software is really cool, just as Dave describes. You can even manually fire each fuel injector, without the engine running, to test its operation, and hear the "snap-snap" of it firing.
chopbuster	posted 09-09-2006 01:35 PM ET (US) A musing: What I find so interesting are the similarities of marine engines and people in general. Quite frequently either can be at one time so reliable and trouble free then in the blink of an eye become so undependable and a real pain in the ass
NJCoastFlyFish	posted 09-13-2006 08:07 PM ET (US) If they sold the programmer to the public like they do with cars I think that would pretty cool. I can buy a computer about the size of a game boy and see all my engine stats. For my ford I know SCT II sells a programmer where I can set my speedo for different tire sizes, set my fuel lean rich and set my injectors for different cold air intakes, turn stuff on and off like traction control as well as a whole bunch of other things including the ability to plug it into a lap top and get real time data while running If evinrude or suzuki or any outboard manufacturer is out there, if I could plug into the onboard computer and check my stats to put my mind at ease, I think that would be a major selling point if I could buy that accessory
montauk steve	posted 09-13-2006 11:51 PM ET (US) Buckda, did you install the motors yourself or did you take the boat into the local dealer and have then do everything? Also, I am wondering what the 300 hr tune-up is and what all it consists of? and a ball park price if anyone has had this done so far. There is tons of data and threads about guys loving the E-TECs, and the 300 hr service should be apart of this thread. Question to all that have installed the motor themselves, do you guys get great service at the local dealer if there happens to be a problem?? say... faulty inj., or throttle cam is stuck/broken, or air in the oil line? soon to have etec.
Buckda	posted 09-14-2006 10:01 AM ET (US) I did the install myself (search for a thread titled "Buckdas Babies" for details). After installation, I took the boat to the dealer for a final inspection before firing the motors (see cetecea page 81 titled "Gambler On A Roll"). Since that inspection (April this year), I took the engines back in July (approximately 72 hours on the engines) for a well-being check and received a software update. Since they had a software update available, the check-up was free. Included was a little TLC from the dealer...he adjusted the thermostats and inspected throttle and shift linkages, etc. Last weekend, I brought the engines back again (122 hours per engine) and received yet another software update and new spark plugs for free. The dealer also tightened the steering tube(?) which he commented sometimes vibrates a little loose on set-back installations such as mine. He showed me how to test for it and to tighten the nut myself. I've received VERY good service from my dealer and though the service has been free, I've left with about 100-200 dollars of other purchases every time I've seen him, so I think he's generally happy on that front as well, plus I'm sure BRP is reimbursing him at a set rate for the EMM software updates. I'm not to the 300 hours yet, but I would imagine I'll likely spend about $200 per motor (or less) on that service. I'll report back to this forum once I've reached that milestone.