2002 Evinrude 115 - direct inject

[DBLD]

Hello out there,<br /><br />I'm looking to buy a brand new outboard. One dealer has a left-vore '02 115 hp Rude. I heard horror stories about these engines in the 2000 year, so I was wondering if anyone knows anything about them in 2002. Are they any good?<br /><br />The other option is getting a 115 hp 4-stroke Suzuki. I am not sure if I can get as good a price on that as the Rude, and I am also not sure if I want the extra 50-60 pounds on my 30 year old transom!<br /><br />Any suggestions are most welcome. Thanks!

 

[JB]

Re: 2002 Evinrude 115 - direct inject

Hi, DBLD.<br /><br />Most of the flap over "Ficht" injected Evinrudes relates to the V6 engines made before Bombardier took over the brand. The V4s didn't seem to have the problems.<br /><br />2002 and later engines have proved very reliable.<br /><br />The DF115 Suzukis and Johnsons are also great engines. Be careful, though. Once you use a 4 stroke you will be hooked for life. My literature shows them as 45-50 lb. more than the 'Rude, but the 'Rude will need an external oil tank and oil, making up a lot of the weight difference.<br /><br />You don't mention what boat you have, but if you have any doubts about the transom condition fix it. The difference between 375lb and 425lb will not hurt a sound transom rated for 115+hp, of any age.<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[DBLD]

Re: 2002 Evinrude 115 - direct inject

Hi JB,<br /><br />Thanks very much for your reply - it is helpful. I never considered the extra weight of the oil tank for the evinrude.<br /><br />My boat is a 19ft Mako, rated to 135 hp - 1975 and still shining! I just got it a while ago, so I'm not sure if the transom was ever worked on. I would love to get the 4-stroke if my boat and bank account can handle it.<br /><br />Thanks again!