2004 Dauntless 220 with BRP Evinrude 175

Optimizing the performance of Boston Whaler boats
Lupi
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Joined: Mon Aug 28, 2017 4:28 am

2004 Dauntless 220 with BRP Evinrude 175

Postby Lupi » Fri Jan 14, 2022 9:57 am

Hi everyone,

I'm currently purchasing a 2004 Dauntless 220 equiped with a 175 Evinrude BRP Ficht Ram

The Boat looks in perfect conditions, very well maintained. I just have a concern regarding the engine given :

- Evinrude is now discontinued and so spare parts maybe quite a mess to chase
- I've heard horrible things about Ficht engines, but this one is a from BRP era, not OMC, so I guess normally should be more reliable.

This engine has a WOT range between 5250 and 5750 rpm with a gear ratio of 1.86 (if I'm right)

Normally, the package on this boat was a 225 Optimax and maybe 175 hp is a bit low, so I'm wondering which prop would work best for this package.

The boat comes at 30 Keur (in France); I was wondering if that was a fair deal

Any idea or any experience reported on such package ?

Many thanks

Luc

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Phil T
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Location: Was Maine. Temporarily Kentucky

Re: 2004 Dauntless 220 with BRP Evinrude 175

Postby Phil T » Fri Jan 14, 2022 10:05 am

While there were problems with some Ficht models, if there was a problem with your motor, it would have happened already.

This is the standing statement. Any Ficht engine still running is just like any other used engine of the same vintage.

BPR is still manufacturing parts for many years, that has not changed.

As for the purchase price, 30,000 Euro does read a bit high, however, a Dauntless 220 in Europe is very rare. It is a great boat for lounging.

I would check to ensure there is a local mechanic who services Ficht engines. This is important. If there are no local shops then you will need to pass on the boat OR expect to repower very soon.
1992 Outrage 17
2019 E-TEC 90
2018 LoadRite 18280096VT
Member since 2003

Lupi
Posts: 37
Joined: Mon Aug 28, 2017 4:28 am

Re: 2004 Dauntless 220 with BRP Evinrude 175

Postby Lupi » Fri Jan 14, 2022 10:26 am

Thanks Phil, fully agree

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Phil T
Posts: 2602
Joined: Thu Oct 22, 2015 6:08 pm
Location: Was Maine. Temporarily Kentucky

Re: 2004 Dauntless 220 with BRP Evinrude 175

Postby Phil T » Fri Jan 14, 2022 10:29 am

With an engine/hull combination such as that I do not have any owner recommendations on prop selection.

In computing pitch using a prop calculator, it returns a recommendation of 15" of pitch (see below).

As for prop make/model, I would defer to prop guru.

Given you are in France, I would ask prop sellers if they allow testing and returning props. If they say yes, start with a stern lifting 3 bladed stainless steel model with 15" of pitch. You may need to test several props.
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1992 Outrage 17
2019 E-TEC 90
2018 LoadRite 18280096VT
Member since 2003

Lupi
Posts: 37
Joined: Mon Aug 28, 2017 4:28 am

Re: 2004 Dauntless 220 with BRP Evinrude 175

Postby Lupi » Fri Jan 14, 2022 10:35 am

Thanks again Phil,

I will first have a look at the current prop and reported performances. I have a phone call with the owner in a few hours. Will let you know.