Suzuki DF140 opinions

[JBjr]

I'm considering replacing my 2 stroke Suzuki 115 with a Suzuki DFS140 4 stroke and wanted to know if anyone has any experience (good or bad) with the DFS140. Also, I have been told that repairs for 4 stroke engines cost considerably more than 2 strokes.

 

[JB]

Re: Suzuki DF140 opinions

Hi, JBjr.<br /><br />Welcome to iboats. <br /><br />So far, 4 strokes appear more reliable than 2 strokes, particularly DFI 2 strokes. If repair is not needed they cost nothing.<br /><br />The DF140s, in Suzuki or Johnson paint, have proven very satisfactory engines. Every report I have read from actual users indicate that they are very happy with them. I have read of zero complaints.<br /><br />Since this is neither Trouble nor Repair, I am moving to General Outboard.

 

[imported_JD__]

Re: Suzuki DF140 opinions

JBjr,<br />I just re-powered from a Merc 115 2-stroke to a John/Suzuki 140 4-stroke. I only have 32 hours on it so I can't speak of service or durability. The Merc would push my boat around 45-46 Mph with 10 gallons of gas, no passenger. The 140 will give me 49-50 mph loaded with 30 gallons of gas and my wife as a passenger. I think once I find the right prop I should pick up a little more speed and performance. Starts first time every time either cold or hot, no smoke, no oil. If you're over 10-15 feet away you can hardly hear it idling. I love the little cone-head looking thing and would never consider a 2-stroke again for my use. <br />JD

 

[aero320]

Re: Suzuki DF140 opinions

JBjr, I have had the Johnson version of the engine for over a year on an 18' cc Triton and could not be happier with the engine. It replaced a 175 Ficht that had blown for the fourth time. All that has been done to the engine is changing the oil and lower unit lubricant. I purchased the shop manual and checked the valve adjustment myself. They were fine. Incidentally, adjusting the valves on these engines is much easier than on the four strokes reviewed recently in Bass and Walleye Boats magazine. A special tool is used to compress the valve springs allowing removal of the discs that are used for valve clearance. The only part that has to be removed is the valve cover. <br /><br />I will never purhcase a two-stroke anything in the future. Performance-wise, 46 mph at wot with 14" x 20" stainless three blade Johnson (Suzuki) prop.<br /><br />I would be curious to know warranty costs for Bombardier for the engines they get from Suzuki versus their own two strokes.

 

[imported_JD__]

Re: Suzuki DF140 opinions

aero320,<br />Do you mind telling me what the shop manual cost? I've been thinking about getting one too. Two more questions, what does your boat weigh, hull only and are you turning 6200 @ WOT?<br />Thanks,<br />JD

 

[Dan180cc]

Re: Suzuki DF140 opinions

jd<br /> I have about 60 hours on my 140 jhonson so far<br />with no problems at all. The 4 strokes are a lot<br />different than the 2 strokes as far as problems<br />are concerned. I did a lot of homework before I<br />purchased the Jhonson 140. I called the companys<br />that sell the extended warranty plans to check<br />the repair history of the 3 motors I was considering. I really did not want the 4 stroke due to the extra 100+ lbs it was going to add on the transom but after talking to the underwriter<br />I learned the repair history on the 4 strokes where so good that I changed my mind and orderd<br />my rig with a Jhonson because it was the lightest of the 3 4 strokes. Check with the dealer and he can get the numbers of the underwriters in your area, good luck Dan.

 

[aero320]

Re: Suzuki DF140 opinions

JD, the manual costs about $20. I ordered it through cLark Marine in Franklin, TN. The Triton Center console hull weighs about 1650 lbs. if my recollection is clear. The motor turns 6200 rpm at wot and has very good hole shot. In fact, I could probably turn the 22" prop. Both Johnson and Suzuki have several boat tests for these engines on a variety of boats.<br /><br />Incidentally, those engines are geared to turn larger diameter (14") props for less slippage. I also purchased one of the third party props as a backup. It is supposedly 21" pitch with a smaller diameter. The Johnson/ Suzuki props are much better.