Honda BF75 and BF90: Lightweight Powerhouses

Honda BF90HP powering a RIB

Honda Marine’s BF75 and BF90 afford boaters the fuel efficiency and quiet operation of Honda’s legendary technology combined with the lightweight and explosive acceleration traditionally associated with two-stroke outboards. The pair’s 1.5-litre, in-line 4-cylinder engine boasts Honda’s exclusive Boosted Low Speed Torque (BLAST) system, Variable Valve Timing and Electronic Lift Control (VTEC™ – BF90), Lean Burn Control, and Three Way Cooling.
BLAST Off
Ideal for smaller speedboats, centre consoles, inflatables, pontoons and skiffs, Honda’s BF75 and BF90 EFI redefine four-stroke performance with the patented BLAST system.
Holeshot and acceleration are dramatically improved by advancing ignition spark timing to within one degree of the knock limit during “hammer down” acceleration. The Engine Control Module (ECM) then steps in to increase injector timing, creating a more potent air/fuel mixture. The resulting boost in available torque at low rpm contributes to a strong holeshot to get the boat up on plane quickly. The ignition spark timing is appropriately adjusted under slower throttle advancement, ensuring a leaner air/fuel mix and class-leading fuel efficiency.
Further contributing to the engines’ outstanding fuel efficiency is Honda’s exclusive Lean Burn Control, which pairs the ECU with an oxygen (O2) sensor to adjust the air/fuel mixture according to speed and load, maximizing efficiency in “cruise mode.”
Derived from racing and first appearing on the Acura NSX sports car, VTEC™ (BF90) utilizes mild cam lobes to operate the intake valves at low rpm, and then engages a high-output lobe for high-rpm operation. The resulting boost in available power provides outstanding mid-range acceleration.
Further contributing to the pair’s explosive performance is Honda’s high-performance gear case. A longer anti-ventilation plate helps trap water flowing to the propeller to minimize porpoising, while a streamlined front and longer bullet reduce drag for enhanced acceleration and fuel efficiency. A front splash plate reduces spray from the hull bottom, maintaining a dry deck above, and a 2.33:1 gear ratio affords the use of 13- to 14-inch diameter propellers for heavier loads.

Honda BF75HP

The engines’ best-in-class 44-amp alternator (35 amps of battery charging), ignition, and other critical electrical components are mounted near the top of the powerhead to ensure that all are kept cool and dry.
High Performance in a Durable Package
To ensure long term durability, Honda engineers designed the first individually-controlled cylinder cooling system for outboard engines – Three Way Cooling. The system reduces engine heat by allowing the cylinder head to run slightly cooler than the cylinder block, greatly reducing engine wear.
A Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC) design uses dual intake valves to deliver the optimal air/fuel mixture for maximum torque and combustion efficiency. In addition, a Multi-Port, Programmed Electronic Fuel Injection system (PGM-FI) accurately controls ignition timing during start-up to provide instant throttle response and outstanding fuel efficiency.
Top-mounted electronics are a standard feature on both engines. The alternator, ignition, and other critical components are mounted near the top of the powerhead to ensure that all are kept cool and dry. By extension, a camshaft-driven, automotive-style oil pump promotes long-term durability of critical engine components.

Honda BF75/90 Cover Off

The BF75 and BF90 boast an Engine Alert System that uses audio and visual cues, as well as rpm reduction circuits to alert the operator of conditions which can contribute to engine damage, such as overheating, low oil pressure, and over-revving. A freshwater flushport functions to flush debris and salt water out of the engine, while Honda’s patented 4-Front Corrosion Protection System features a double-sealed, multi-layered paint process – both features extend the life of the outboards in harsh marine environments.
The BF90 is available in both 20- and 25-inch shaft models, while the BF75 is offered in a 20-inch shaft length. All new Honda outboard engines sold for recreational use offer an industry-best True 3-year, non-declining limited factory warranty that is the same on the last day as it is on the first.
Technical Specifications: Honda Marine BF75

ENGINE
TYPE	Four-Stroke In-line 4-Cylinder
DISPLACEMENT	1,496cc (91.3 cubic in)
BORE & STROKE	73 x 89.4 mm (2.87 x 3.52)
FULL THROTTLE HP RANGE	4,500 – 5,500 RPM
HP RATING AT PROPSHAFT	75HP @ 5,500RPM
VALVE TRAIN	SOHC
VALVES PER CYLINDER	4
FUEL DELIVERY	Programmed Electronic Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
IGNITION SYSTEM	Microcomputer Controlled
STARTING SYSTEM	Electric
LUBRICATION	Wet Sump
COOLING SYSTEM	Water Cooled
ALTERNATOR	44 Amp (546 watts)
BATTERY CHARGING POWER	35 Amp (433 watts)
TRIM RANGE	-4° to +16°
TILT RANGE	68°
DRIVE
GEAR RATIO	2.33:1
GEAR SHIFT	F-N-R
PROPELLER	Optional
DIMENSIONS
TRANSOM HEIGHT(S)	(L) 508 mm
DRY WEIGHT (TILLER)	(L) 171 kg
DRY WEIGHT (REMOTE)	(L) 165 kg

Technical Specifications: Honda Marine BF90

ENGINE
TYPE	Four-Stroke In-line 4-Cylinder
DISPLACEMENT	1,496cc (91.3 cubic in)
BORE & STROKE	73 x 89.4 mm (2.87 x 3.52)
FULL THROTTLE HP RANGE	5,300 – 6,300 RPM
HP RATING AT PROPSHAFT	90HP @ 5,500RPM
VALVE TRAIN	SOHC
VALVES PER CYLINDER	4
FUEL DELIVERY	Programmed Electronic Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
IGNITION SYSTEM	Microcomputer Controlled
STARTING SYSTEM	Electric
LUBRICATION	Wet Sump
COOLING SYSTEM	Water Cooled
ALTERNATOR	44 Amp (546 watts)
BATTERY CHARGING POWER	35 Amp (433 watts)
TRIM RANGE	-4° to +16°
TILT RANGE	68°
DRIVE
GEAR RATIO	2.33:1
GEAR SHIFT	F-N-R
PROPELLER	Optional
DIMENSIONS
TRANSOM HEIGHT(S)	(L) 508 mm
	(X) 635 mm
DRY WEIGHT	(L) 166 kg
	(X) 172 kg

ribEXTREME – Honda Marine partners with Falcon Inflatables

Honda Marine SA partners with Falcon Inflatables

Another important part of Honda Marine SA’s quest to establish a special trading environment for its dealers where each and every customer’s individual boating needs can be met, is the setting up of an exclusive sales agreement with Falcon Inflatables. Falcon (a family owned private company) was established more than 27 years ago and have designed, raced, manufactured and supplied a vast array of inflatable boats to more than 30 countries globally. The many years of international exposure has had a strong influence on product and technological developments and has resulted in a line offering world class quality, innovation and some of the most efficient hull designs available.

Falcon’s ERP managed factory features some of the latest technologies and highest levels of attention to detail available. This ensures maximum product durability, even in harsh tropical climates or commercial working environments. They’re made from only the best European-sourced materials & fixtures and tubes can withstand in excess of 10 times normal air pressure. They are 100% airtight, seams cannot fail and they do not require to be adapted for a rise in temperature.

The 6-model ISO/CE certified line-up, ranging from 4,5m to 7,6m, offers more than 100 accessories, configuration and upgrade options. They come with the only true 5yr warranty in SA and are suitable for recreational & heavy commercial applications.

The co-branded ribEXTREME range is competitively priced and its available exclusively from Honda Marine dealerships.
 

WWF HONDA MARINE PARKS PROGRAMME

The False Bay Coastal Conservation Partnership Stakeholder Workshop Process

Crayfish boats in Kalk Bay Harbour

The ever-increasing use of the bay’s marine resources by a wide range of often competing users, has resulted in conflict and tension between various stakeholder groups. These issues range from exploitation of the bay’s fish stocks, spatial use of the bay, shark/human interactions, water quality and pollution in the bay and safety and security along the coastline.
False Bay is a popular destination in the Cape Metropolitan Area for outdoor recreational activities. Non-consumptive activities such as swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and picnicking mainly occur on the sandy shores, along the northern coastline and beaches along the western and eastern coasts. Popular areas for these activities include Fish Hoek, Muizenberg, Mnandi, Monwabisi, Kogelbaai and the Strand. Snorkellers and scuba divers are also very active in False Bay, mostly around rocky shores near Miller’s Point. Exploitative activities, such as recreational angling (rock and surf, and boat-based) and bait collection also extend around the entire bay.

Crayfish nets

There has been rapid urban growth in areas surrounding False Bay, particularly along the northern shores and the recent identification of additional coastal development nodes along the False Bay coastline will result in an inevitable increase in pressures on the bay. Coastal resorts in False Bay frequently reach capacity during peak season times and as a result development planners face the challenge of meeting the increasing demand for easily accessible coastal developments, in an environmentally sustainable manner.
The commercial fishery in False Bay dates back more than 300 years and includes purse-seine for live bait (four boats operating from Kalk Bay harbour), beach-seine (‘trek-net fishery”) and commercial line-fisheries (including the traditional line fishery from Kalk Bay, and the ski-boat fishery).
Eco-tourism enterprises, for example whale-watching, shark cage diving, and Seal Island boat trips are gaining in popularity in False Bay and are seen by many as a positive step towards the sustainable use of the bay’s marine resources, with the potential to generate alternative local livelihood options.

Smooth Hound sharks destined for Australia to be sold as lemon fish

The ever-increasing use of the bay’s marine resources by a wide range of often competing users, has resulted in conflict and tension between various stakeholder groups. These issues range from exploitation of the bay’s fish stocks, spatial use of the bay, shark/human interactions, water quality and pollution in the bay and safety and security along the coastline.
Historically, marine and coastal management was managed via a sector-based approach, which was adequate given that utilization of the sea and its resources was limited to few uses (e.g. fishing and navigation) that rarely influenced one another. But the rapid growth of ocean and coastal utilization from many sectors created conflict among uses such that sectoral management could no longer sufficiently address the issues. This is why there is the need for collaborative, integrated coastal management that includes input from civil society in the decision making processes.
Stakeholder workshop process
A multi-stakeholder workshop, open to any interested parties, was held on February 16^th 2012, to discuss the state of False Bay.
Following the initial workshop, a series of smaller, focussed group workshops was held with each stakeholder group separately, to elicit more detailed feedback, and to elect representatives from each group.
Each group identified a set of issues that were considered as priorities. Some of these priority issues were common to more than one stakeholder group, forming a common thread throughout the workshop series. Although it must be kept in mind that these are the perceptions, opinions and issues raised by members of the public, and not necessarily factual or based on research, they are still the perceptions of the stakeholders who are involved or interested in False Bay, and as such need to be taken into account.

• Compliance and Law enforcement issues, including a lack of compliance with and enforcement of existing rules and regulations, and a lack of capacity and resources amongst governance agencies.

• Poaching, including a lack of monitoring, policing and compliance, fragmented enforcement and the failure of the judicial system.

• Education, Awareness and Training, where a pro-active approach is needed. Education is needed with respect to conservation, biodiversity, oceans, our marine environment, the social aspect of fisheries and the history of South Africa and False Bay. Training is needed with respect to the rules and regulations, the laws governing South Africa and False Bay, fisheries facts and trends, rights allocations, skills development, eco-tourism and alternative livelihoods provision. Awareness about False Bay needs to be increased – a drive to increase awareness around our environment, biodiversity, conservation, use of the resources, sustainability of resources and  sustainable development.

• Public Safety, including heightened awareness, visible effective policing and public protection, and that public transport and amenities should be monitored and policed.

• The need for a coordinated, integrated approach was emphasised. This should be amongst all governance agencies, at a national, provincial and local level. A need for an integrated management plan including an integrated compliance strategy was identified.

Diverse stakeholder groups working together for some smoother sailing...

What was a real revelation, and extremely encouraging, about this process was seeing how much in common all these diverse groups of False Bay users actually have, rather than how much they are in conflict. The next step is to harness this into a common goal and a shared vision, and to work together with governance agencies towards:
False Bay functioning optimally and delivering sustainable benefits to all those who use, depend on and enjoy the bay, for all current and future generations.

HONDA MARINE SOUTHERN AFRICA NEWS

Honda Marine SA forms exclusive partnership with Chaparral and Robalo Boats

Chaparral SSX287

In a short timeframe of only 7 years, Honda has become the fastest growing outboard engine brand in South Africa for the second year running, and now as from May 01, 2012, Honda Marine SA became the exclusive distributor for both Chaparral and Robalo Boats in Southern Africa and the West Indian Ocean. Despite the current tough trading conditions being experienced, particularly in the marine market, Honda is very much a marine brand on the move and surely one to keep a close eye on.
Powered by the kudos, world-reputation and backing of the Honda name, Honda Marine’s comprehensive range of 4-stroke outboard engines from 2 to 250HP has captured the imagination and hearts of the discerning South African boating public. Ever since the introduction of the GB30 in 1964 (Honda’s first outboard engine), Honda has pioneered the development and production of 4-stroke outboards with a low impact on the environment based on the philosophy of their founder, Soichiro Honda, who said that “Rice grows in water, and fish live in the water, a product that runs over the water should not pollute it.”

Honda BF90HP

In addition to the environmental benefits, people also want great performance, outstanding reliability, smoothness of operation and top draw fuel efficiency, all in an outboard package that offers superior advanced technology and most importantly affordability. They’ve been looking for all these qualities in an outboard engine for some time now and are quickly realizing that the only power supply destination in which they’ll find them all is in a Honda, hence the rapid growth.

Honda outboard engine line-up

To keep abreast of customer demand, Honda Marine has been steadily growing its dealer network infrastructure and looking for dynamic ways to differentiate itself from the rest of the market. Certainly this new partnership with Chaparral and Robalo Boats clearly represents the first of many steps in which Honda is establishing an exclusive trading environment for its dealers where each and every customer’s individual boating needs can be met.

Chaparral 224XTREME

As Clinton Lambert, the Divisional Manager for Honda Marine Southern Africa says, “We are constantly striving to find diverse and exciting ways to satisfy our customers, to support our dealers and to grow the Honda Marine brand. We must cater for all customer requirements from bottom end entry-level boats right up to top end imported boats. With over 40 years experience and a worldwide reputation for manufacturing high quality craft, the exclusive tie-up with Chaparral and Robalo is a major coup for the Honda Marine brand. There is a definite market for these majestic boats and Honda Marine wants to play a leading role in getting them back onto South African waters.”

Honda to power Robalo Boats in Southern Africa

Both Chaparral and Robalo fall under the ‘Marine Products Corporation’ banner and both have tremendous heritages. What’s more they enjoy a strong connection with Honda in that all 3 companies share a history of endurance, innovation and quality, all having commenced their respective operations in the 1960’s, Honda Marine in ’64, Chaparral in ’65 and Robalo in ’68.

Chaparral SSi226

From the Chaparral perspective, it was their founder Buck Pegg who started up a small fibreglass fabrication shop in Florida and over time grew it into one of the world’s largest independent manufacturers of sterndrive pleasure boats. The Chaparral business whose first boat, a 15-foot Tri-Hull sold for a whopping $675, has now evolved into a comprehensive fleet of 29 boats ranging in length from 18 to 42 feet. A factory fire, needs for expansion and a buy-out of the then bankrupt Larsen Boats, all led Chaparral to establishing a new production facility and headquarters in Georgia where they’re still based.

Chaparral SSi226 Cockpit

Chaparral has also experienced some changes in ownership over the years, finally being bought by RPC in 1986 who then in turn bought Robalo from Brunswick in 2001, the spin off from all these acquisitions being the establishment of the ‘Marine Products Corporation’, a 1 200 000 square foot facility that now houses both Chaparral and Robalo under one roof, a total area of some 100 acres – it’s very big!

Honda powered Robalo 245 fishing boat

In terms of Robalo’s history, they build top quality, performance-orientated fishing boats focusing strongly on the family fisherman who is passionate about what he or she does. Fishing boats is their business, that’s what they do, manufacturing their first 19-foot vessel back in 1968. Over the years Robalo has been owned by AMF, Cobia and Brunswick prior to being acquired by Chaparral in 2001 when they decided that Robalo’s premier fleet of outboard powered fishing boats would be the perfect complement to the existing Chaparral model line-up.

Robalo R240 leaning post

Also fuelled by Chaparral founder Buck Pegg’s lifelong passion for bluewater fishing, Robalo has since 2001 constantly been expanding its reach throughout the world by introducing brand new or completely retooled boats on an annual basis, keeping the highly reputable Robalo name right at the forefront.

Robalo R240 Sun Bow Lounger

Both brands have enjoyed much success with Chaparral leading the way with 13 ‘Boat of the Year’ Awards in the last 23 years alone, the most achieved by any boat builder ever. Certainly Honda Marine SA firmly believes that they’ve partnered with a winning combination and are looking forward to properly launching their involvement at the Johannesburg Boat Show in August, where Chaparral Xtreme 224, SSi 226, and SSX 287 models, together with Robalo R247 and R240 models, will hopefully be on display. They and the Honda Marine dealer network look forward to seeing you there…
For more information on both Chaparral and Robalo Boats please click on the links below to view their respective websites:
CHAPARRAL BOATS    -   http://www.chaparralboats.com
ROBALO BOATS   –   http://www.robalo.com 

BOATING TIP FOR THE MONTH

Navigating Inlets in Rough Waters

One of the most dangerous and difficult tasks that a skipper will face, particularly for smaller boats, is negotiating inlets in rough seas whether going out to sea or trying to return to port. The weather and tidal currents can change quickly which can dramatically affect your options, so careful planning and keeping the risk factors to a minimum are key. Also the narrower the inlet, the faster the flow of tidal currents whether going in or coming out, principally because a huge mass of water is now squeezing itself into a much smaller space causing the flow of the water to accelerate radically (the infamous Knysna Heads being a great example).

The infamous Knysna Heads

Alarm bells should ring when there is a strong onshore wind and an ebb tidal current (tide going out), all of which will be even more pronounced if it’s winter time because then stronger winds and colder water (hypothermia being a risk should you capsize) will make the sea rougher, causing higher and more frequent waves which will pose even more potential problems.
This is not the time to experience a boat crisis, whether it is fuel-related, engine cut-out drama or a confrontation with floating debris. Always make sure you follow all the normal ‘going out to sea’ safety procedures and above all check the weather reports, the state of the tides, know your boat and your own capabilities as a skipper, and always tell someone where you’re going linked to an appropriate timeframe.

Broaching can become a serious problem if one's not careful

It’s generally much easier to judge the overall conditions from an inshore position where you need to carefully monitor everything for several minutes before deciding whether to go or not. If in doubt then just don’t go, never take chances with the sea, especially if it’s rough.
On those occasions when you’ve made the call to go out into a head sea, make sure the bow is reasonably high (trim up a little) and keep your speed down. You don’t want to be too slow otherwise the bow will hang low in the water and you could lose steerage, also you could find yourself shooting straight down the back of a wave, spearing the water and then getting slammed by the next wave before you can react. Too fast and you could find yourself taking on lots of water when the bow slams into the wave which could make the boat pitchpole (turn end over end), so take it easy and make sure you’ve got enough forward momentum to get over the wave, if you’re launching off the wave you’re going too fast.

The general rule is to go out slow and to come in as quick as the following sea dictates

Certainly it’s far more difficult to guage conditions from an offshore vantage point when you’re trying to get back in through the inlet, as all you see is the back of the rollers as they thunder inland. The weather can change very quickly, so you must properly evaluate everything before entering the inlet. It’s always best to wait for the tidal current to start flooding (incoming tide) which will normally reduce the wave height and increase the time between waves. Also waves generally come in sets of between 7 to 11 waves with a potential one-wave break between sets. This is where you wait for the break and power onto the back of the last wave from the set.

Often difficult to guage conditions from an offshore vantage point

It’s imperative that you run with the following sea and constantly adjust the throttle and ride on the back of the wave. Going too fast could take you over the crest and down the front of the wave which could lead to broaching, pitchpoling and capsizing, so stay on the back at all times. It can get a bit hairy, and yes the adrenalin will be flowing, but you’ll have the peace of mind that the performance and reliability of your Honda motors are very much working with you and soon you’ll be safely back in port.
For information on the weather, tides, boat packages and suitable Honda power, consult your local Honda Marine dealer.

This entry was posted in Boating Tip for the Month by paul

All-new Honda BF250HP offering advanced technology

Twin Honda BF250's in action

Following the Port Alfred launch, the Honda BF250 four-stroke engine now becomes the newest and most powerful outboard to join the Honda Marine lineup – and now the company’s flagship model. The design of the BF250 incorporates a number of advanced technological innovations that contribute to the engine’s high fuel economy and superior performance.

Honda BF250 recently launched in Port Alfred

The 3.6 litre VTEC® (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control®) engine is equipped with an all-new gear case, incorporates the world’s first marine direct air induction system of its type on a production outboard (providing for cooler, denser air for better combustion than conventional under-cowl induction systems), and has a full-throttle RPM range of 5300-6300.

BF250's powering the Zimbabwean-built Raptor

The Honda BF250 engine also incorporates the Boosted Low Speed Torque (BLAST™) System through which holeshot and acceleration are dramatically improved by advancing ignition spark timing to within one degree of the knock limit during ‘hammer down’ acceleration.

For Specifications Click here

Honda BF10HP offering a powerful Portable option

Honwave 3.2m V-Floor powered by a Honda BF10HP

Whilst the Honda BF250HP will do a fantastic job for Honda at the top end of the market, best not to forget Honda’s smaller portable engines that come in a range of sizes to match just the right power with your needs. From canoes, small tender and inflatables, to aluminium fishing boats and sailboats, Honda has you covered with engines that are dependable, quiet and easy to operate. This month we feature the dynamic Honda BF10HP.

The BF10HP model offers a number of technologically-advanced features, including: one-hand starting; PGM Ignition; Power Thrust Design; reverse exhaust relief; Auto-Start Enrichment; high-output charging; Shallow Water Drive; Power Tilt, and an Integrated Carrying Handle.

Lightweight, Dependable Power
Honda engineers strive for easy use and lightweight, fuel-efficient design, and the BF10 is testament to their success. The easy, one-hand starting system utilizes a built-in compression release and digital CD ignition for quick and easy pull starts, while a microprocessor-controlled Auto-Start Enrichment System automatically adjusts the air/fuel mixture for quick, easy starts on electric-start models. PGM ignition employs microprocessor technology to accurately control ignition timing across the entire rpm range for optimum overall operation, and a one-piece cast head and engine block provide additional strength and light weight.

For added thrust under heavy load conditions, the BF10 comes with Honda’s exclusive Power Thrust Design, which combines a low 2:33:1 gear ratio with a special 4-blade propeller to produce added thrust in forward and reverse. Reverse Exhaust Relief provides an extra exhaust outlet above the cavitation plate, allowing the propeller to run in undisturbed water and to produce more thrust.

To reduce operator fatigue, an integrated carrying handle is located at the engine’s exact top/bottom balance point, making the engine easy to carry in a level position. The engine also features a unique Pendulum Mount System that absorbs vibration to provide extremely smooth operation. Additionally, a power tilt feature conveniently tilts the engine out of the water for easy lift-off and transport.

The BF10 also features a high-output regulated alternator, producing 6 amps at 1,000 rpm and 12 amps at 3,000 rpm, maintaining the battery charge to keep electronics powered even at trolling speeds.

Overview
The 9.9HP, 4-stroke Honda BF10 outboard engine utilizes Honda’s single-overhead-cam design for outstanding power. A programmed ignition system with auto-start enrichment gives you fast, easy startup and warm-up, whilst reverse exhaust relief creates more power in reverse by minimizing cavitation around the propeller blades.

Up Front Tiller Controls
The convenient Forward Mount Shift Lever allows fingertip shifting. Twist Grip Throttle and Tensioner allows for superior throttle friction control, minimizing driver fatigue.

EZ Steer Friction Control
Unique lever design allows operator to precisely adjust steering tension for improved control and comfort.

Fresh Water Flushport
Flushes debris and saltwater out of the engine, extending the life of the outboard.

Power Thrust Design (BFP)
The combination of a lower 2.33:1 gear ratio and the 10″ x 6 1/2″ Power Thrust 4-blade propeller creates 60% more thrust in reverse and 15% more in forward. The result – improved manoeuvrability and performance.

For Specifications click here

Preparing Your Honda Outboard Engine for Winter Storage

Essential that your Honda outboards are always operating at their optimum

Your outboard engine, specifically your Honda 4-stroke, will form a major investment component on any boat package that you purchase, therefore if you’re not going to be using her over the winter, then it’s essential that you take a few easy to follow steps to ensure that your Honda 4-stroke will always operate at its optimum level.

Exterior Clean – The first thing to do is to thoroughly clean and wash down the exterior of your engine with an appropriate cleaning solvent mixed with water (consult your local Honda Marine Dealer for the best cleaning solvent advice), in order to remove salt water and any grime deposits which may have settled on the cowlings and cover during your usage.

Honda hose flush mount connection point (for flushing at a mooring)

Full Engine Flush – It’s then crucial that you give your Honda outboard a good full flush through proper muffs covering either side of the gear casing flush points. The specific Honda hose flush mount connection (ideal for flushing your Honda outboard when at a mooring on the water) should not be used in this particular instance, as this will flush the cylinder head only, whereas for longer term non-usage you must flush the whole engine. Once you’ve done this, remove the engine cover and spray the engine down with anti-moisture repellant oil spray.

Flush points on the gear case

Fuel Systems – Whether you run a ‘Portable Tank’ or a ‘Built-in Tank’, it’s very important that you run them as near to empty as possible. If you were to leave your tanks with any amount of fuel still sitting there, you firstly run the risk of condensation building up inside your tank leading to water getting into the fuel, and secondly if unleaded fuel sits for too long, sediment can form in the bottom of you tank which when you start up again can be sucked into the filters and consequently block the fuel flow.

Full flush

On the smaller Honda carburetor engines (2.3hp to 30hp), you should also disconnect the fuel line running from the fuel tank to the engine and run the fuel in the engine carburetor float dry. On all larger capacity Honda engines (40hp to 225hp), these all have Programmed Electronic Fuel Injection (PGM-FI), so you don’t need to disconnect the fuel line.

Electrical System – It’s always advisable to disconnect your battery, otherwise if left standing unused for long periods of time the battery will slowly start to discharge itself, as the alternator can only keep the battery fully charged if the engine itself is running.

Re-starting – All Honda outboards have a normal fuel filter, whilst from Honda 40hp and up to 225hp, all the outboards are equipped with an additional ‘water trap’ fuel filter which will automatically catch any water in your fuel system and set off an alarm, allowing you to check and empty the trap.

Honda Water Trap fuel filter

So when it comes to re-starting, once you’ve re-connected your battery, filled up with fresh unleaded petrol and primed your fuel system, keep an eye on this water trap filter, just to make sure that there’s been no condensation build-up during the winter lay-off period.

As important as it is to look after your Honda outboard during these non-usage times, you must also take similar steps to maintain your Hull and Trailer.

Hull:

• Thoroughly wash down the hull removing any salt water, grime or algae, preferably with a high pressure hose cleaner.

• Wash down the decks, seating, upholstery, stainless steel rails from any deposits.

• Remove accessories such as your Radio/ GPS Fishfinder units etc… and store in a safe place.

• Lubricate/spray all electrical connection points with anti-moisture repellant oil spray.

• Ensure that you boat is properly covered during the winter storage period to protect it from dust and dirt settling.

• Ensure that your boat is safely stored under roof to protect it from the elements, particularly harmful UV rays.

Trailer:

• If you’re launching in salt water, thoroughly wash down your trailer after each and every use. If launching in fresh water just wash your trailer down before storage to remove dust, dirt and any grime.

• Check that your wheel bearings are sufficiently greased.

• Ensure that your tyre pressures are correct before storage. Should there be insufficient air or should they go flat, irreparable damage may be caused to your tyres.

Basic Winter maintenance will help give your Honda outboard maximum longevity

 For any queries or questions on any of the above, as well as for best cleaning solvent advice, please consult your local Honda Marine dealer who will be more than happy to assist you. Wishing you Safe and Happy Boating wherever you may find yourself on the water!

BF 250 Avalanche 230

The Honda Empire Strikes back

The Avalanche 230 fitted with a BF250 motor is not only Honda’s flagship engine, but it’s their warship boat too! Avalanche has been available for six years - and having done enough proving hours for Honda means that this is the true Leader of the Empire…
The outboard-powered Avalanche 230 has been available in South Africa since 2008. In my opinion, she is the most underrated product (and South African built at that) since the Biltong slicer.
In fact, she first caught my eye in the beginning of 2009 due to the fact that she had a brilliantly designed deck which saw the amount of space on board being like the inside of the Death Star! Added to that was her on-the-water performance - which was pretty electric! But things have changed and time has moved on… She could be the high-school sweetheart which, after a few years, has become vegan and lives in a trailer park! I keep an open mind as I meet up with this old flame for a review in Port Alfred.

Deck layout

I’m glad to report that there seems to have only really been slight tweaks made to this craft since we last met. She’s got long, sleek lines to complement her 23 feet of length and the quality, additional wake tower shows her sporty side.
Inside the craft there’s oodles of space for passengers and gear and you can look forward to seating 10 of your friends for comfy sundowners come summer evenings...

Honda BF250

Dream the Impossible

The launch of the all-new Honda BF250 has been long awaited by consumers world-wide. “Perfection takes time” has been the response from the company, when asked. While I have read this on restaurant menus too, Honda’s recipe seems to have come together to make something truly brilliant. The Editor travels to Port Alfred to see if Honda’s dreams have been made possible…

Honda has been producing a line of quiet, fuel-efficient, and reliable outboard marine engines for over 40 years. Ranging from 2 to 250 horsepower, Honda reckon their outboards set the standard for fuel economy and ease of operation while remaining true to the core Honda attributes, namely durability, quiet operation, quality, and reliability – all while looking after their responsibility toward waters and the environment.
The Honda BF250 isn’t an engine which is powered by a few thousand steroid-driven mice. What it does have is technology – and heap loads of it!
It combines a new 3.6-litre V6 engine – which is the largest in Honda’s lineup, with a revolutionary, direct air induction system for an outboard. This new system ensures the boat operator achieves a combination of high performance and low fuel consumption, allowing for a great all-rounder package, no matter your needs...

Words by Dean Castle Pictures by Dean Castle and courtesy of Honda Motors SA