Request: Yamaha 9.9 vs Honda 15

[puremajek]

Asking for guidance here please.

The build of our Cat suggests to Yamaha 9.9's. We are looking for electric start and tilt a bonus, both available with the Honda. The motors will be left on their engine pods and used only in a saltwater environment and we require long shaft, 4 stroke.

Given this and corrosion technology to date, could I please get some feedback on one or the other, do's and don'ts, stay-away-from..., corrosion issues, development changes, reliability, in fact anything to try and make this decision a little easier.

Thanking you in advance

[gershel]

Can't tell you about the Honda, but I have 2 Yamaha 9.9, 4-stroke high thrust engines. The important thing about the Yamaha is the 3:1 reduction gear transmission, that develops the high torque for the 11 3/4" prop. I think the Honda has a 2:1 gear, and a much smaller prop. Most sailboats need the slower turning, higher touque at the prop.

Marc

[puremajek]

Gershel
Thank you for your help. Some other details I have located include:

Honda BF15 Yamaha 9.9HT
Weight (H) 52 kg (Y) 51kg
Transom height (H) 703mm (Y) 635mm
Gear ratio (H) 2.08 (Y) 2.92
Prop size (H) 11 3/4" (Y) 10.5”

Difference between the Honda 15 and the 20 is just the carburettor.

A 9.9hp flat out and using the fuel that goes along with WOT (wide open throttle) is making 9.9hp.

A 15hp will make the same hp, and a lot more torque at much less throttle and would use much the same or even less fuel, but on WOT will return a knot or two more speed. One gets power tilt and an extra 4 amps charge, at a price.

I would be interested in the reliability (specifically the later models of both) and any corrosion statistics from anyone. Thank you again.

[sailingdog]

The Honda BF20 is not much bigger than the 15HP, and has power tilt and start. Also has a 12 Amp alternator, which isn't too bad for a small outboard. It is what I have on my trimaran...and it works quite well.