Bombardier Johnsons & Evinrudes

[62_Kiwi]

We have yet to see any of the new Bombardier-built outboards in NZ, but I see on the Johnson website (press releases) that Bombardier started distributing their 2002 models in October last year.<br /><br />I know from this board that Bombardier has upgraded all the quality processes in building the engines - but are there any significant technology changes in the design of these 2002 models over and above the previous OMC models ?<br /><br />Has anyone here had any first-hand experience with the new Bombardier outboards ?<br /><br />What's the supply of these motors like at present in the U.S. & Canada ? (I'm trying to work out how long it will be before they show up here).<br /><br />Thanks

 

[Forktail]

Re: Bombardier Johnsons & Evinrudes

I don't have one, but Bombardier makes quality stuff.<br /><br />I assume since their purchase of Johnson/Evinrude has been recent, that the design of the engines themselves won't change. I'm sure quality control will go up. Bombardier apparently wants to further the FICT technology.<br /><br />I'm looking forward to what they have in store for the future. I'd love to see Bombardier's Rotax engines in the outboards. They're rock-solid.<br /><br />I would think if you buy one now, you would be getting the same old Johnson.

 

[ralph]

Re: Bombardier Johnsons & Evinrudes

I've used Rotax engines for many years on my ultra-light aircraft and if you do routine maintenance they are great engines-very reliable.

 

[seahorse5]

Re: Bombardier Johnsons & Evinrudes

Besides the attention to detail and better quality control procedures, Bombardier did not have to make any major design changes to the line. The 2000 and 2001 motors worked well, OMC had finally gotten the 150-175 FICHT problems behind them,<br /><br />2002 changes include bigger gears and gearcase (V6), fewer emissions and better economy, stronger midrange horsepower, and improved fuel, oiling, and electronic components.<br /><br />The new engines are quieter than before and perform better. I've run most of the larger new motors and was impressed. The 225 Evinrude FICHT has fewer total emissions than the 4 stroke 225 Yamaha, uses less fuel in the ICOMIA test, and outperforms it by a wide margin. The 200 FICHT even outperforms the 225 Yamaha.<br /><br />On the same type of boat and at the same speed, 33 mph, the 135 Evinrude used 2 gallons per hour LESS than the Honda 130.<br /><br />I think Bombardier will amaze the industry in a very short time.

 

[62_Kiwi]

Re: Bombardier Johnsons & Evinrudes

Thanks for your comments guys. Everything I've heard so far about Bombardier has been good and these new motors seem to be the ones to get.<br /><br />I looked up Rotax engines (thought from the name that they might be rotary engines - but not the case). I guess anyone making aero engines must know a thing or two about reliability.<br /><br />The changes Seahorse5 mentioned sound like good incremental improvements - but nothing too radical.<br /><br />I imagine there must be huge demand for these new engines. How is Bombardier doing in meeting demand ? Do the marine shops have stocks of these motors - or are they running on backorder ?<br /><br />Thanks

 

[Hogwild]

Re: Bombardier Johnsons & Evinrudes

I talked to a Senior Stratos person last week who recently toured the new Bombardier facility and had the following comments:<br /><br />1. The facility is state of the art.<br /><br />2. The obvious quality control improvement is very agressive and impressive.<br /><br />3. While he was there a problem occurred on the line and their new QC procedures will only allow 5 engines to pass down the line at a time, then a 100% check is performed. They shut the line down, fixed the 4-5 engines -on the spot, then started the line backup with the corrections made. <br /><br />4. The approach that Bombardier is taking is that they WILL NOT to send something out knowing its not right for the dealer to fix and deal with.<br /><br />5. The 225 Ficht HO is very strong and faster, and supposedly the fastest stock 225 on the market with the best MPG.

 

[14riverrat2]

Re: Bombardier Johnsons & Evinrudes

Kiwi,<br /><br />Thanks for your replies to my Ficht vs.Yamaha post in early February - you're comments were most helpful. Looking over the new Evinrude / Johnson line in their 2002 catalog I immediately recognized Bombardier's cleverness in marketing both new and old technology. I didn't however think of it in terms of "early and later adopters" - excellent observation, thanks.<br /><br />For my new boat my first choice was a 4 stroke. However, not finding a suitable choice in the 150HP range, I turned to the 2 strokes. I wanted the improved performance, economy and lower emissions of the newer technologies, that lead me to my choice between Ficht & HPDI. I agree, both the 4 strokes and HPDI are probably "late adopter" technologies and that the Ficht is "early adopter" technology.<br /><br />For my new boat I've ordered a 2002 Evinrude Ficht 150HP. I guess that makes me an "early adopter", partly by default, and partly by choice. My dealer offered an on the water demo in a boat identical to the one I've order, powered by a 1999 Ficht 150 he has fully upgraded to 2002 specifications. The motor performed flawlessly, quick throttle response, felt strong at all RPM, virtually no smoke, quiet, smooth and rapid starting.<br /><br />The dealer claims Bombardier has:<br /><br /> 1. Cleaned up QC issues and is producing defect free engines.<br /><br /> 2. Resolved power head operating temperature problems associated with poor computer control. Computer control electronics redesigned. <br /><br /> 3. Improved oil passages.<br /><br />I told the dealer I was impressed with the performance of the engine, that I believed Bombardier has in all probability resolved the OMC problems and is building a quality, reliable engine. But, the fact remains that the engine is NOT TIME TESTED. He said he has such faith in the new engines that if I have problems with the engine and are not satisfied with my choice, he will swap it out for a new HPDI on his dime. Being an old Evinrude fan, I reluctantly ordered the motor.<br /><br />My boat is currently being built and should be on the water in about 4 weeks. Then time will tell.<br /><br />Salty

 

[62_Kiwi]

Re: Bombardier Johnsons & Evinrudes

Salty,<br /><br />Thanks for updating us on your final choice. I think you've made a good decision and I'm glad that all the discussion on this board was of some use to you.<br /><br />From what I've read and heard, the new Bombardier-built engines are of the highest quality standards and the Ficht models go like rockets with excellent economy!<br /><br />Thanks for being an early adpoter! The views of many on this board are that you've got an excellent performing high quality engine. If you have as good an experience as I hope you do, then (as a late adopter), I'll follow in your footsteps (once we get Bombardier engines in NZ). <br /><br />All the best.<br /><br />

 

[14riverrat2]

Re: Bombardier Johnsons & Evinrudes

Kiwi,<br /><br />Thanks for your support. I understand the engines are readily available here in the states, don't know about Canada? With Bombardier behind the marketing I would think there would be a world wide push. I'll keep you posted of my Ficht (or is it Fight - thats a long story) experiences.<br /><br />Best Regards,<br />Salty