Yamaha 2-stroke outboard motors spread into the global market

Yamaha 2-stroke outboard motors spread into the global market

Since Yamaha Motor began manufacturing and marketing outboard motors in 1960, they have found markets all over the world where people use and love them as trusted partners on the water, for work and leisure use. Among the growing line-up of Yamaha outboards, the 2-stroke models with their simpler engine structure continue to have a strong customer following. In order to meet the diverse and demanding needs of these devoted customers, Yamaha offers a selection of over 50 2-stroke model variations and over 20 Enduro models.

How did Yamaha Motor become the leading outboard brand on the global market? Two events were especially important in the spread of the brand's popularity. One was the decision to develop a line of Enduro models beginning in 1972. In many countries of the world where outboard demand is primarily for commercial uses, the water quality, weather and climate variance and long hours of continuous use make for a very harsh use environment. Yamaha's Enduro models were designed and engineered with the durability and quality to withstand these extremely demanding use conditions. It was a product development process based on detailed surveys of use conditions and environmental factors made possible by the cooperative efforts of sales and service staff working together with local dealerships throughout the world.
The survey data they gathered was then translated into ambitious development goals and evaluation standards that were tougher than ever before. The first Enduro model to emerge from this development project was named the "E8," and it was soon followed by the E15, E25, E40 and E48. The launch of these models set a new standard for durability and eventually won a following of devoted users worldwide. In the nearly 30 years since the launch of the first Enduro models, they have been improved constantly and continue to be manufactured today as highly matured and proven models.

The second major factor in the growth of Yamaha outboards into a renowned global brand was the move into the US market in 1980s. Compared to commercial-use outboards like the Enduro series, leisure-use outboards had developed along a different set of demands, among which lightness Yamaha 2-strokes, the reliable power of choice for users worldwide and compactness were important qualities. Fully aware of these fundamental differences, Yamaha Motor became the world's first outboard manufacturer to develop separate lines for commercial and leisure use. The development of Yamaha's leisure-specific outboards began in 1981, and within three short years the project produced a line-up of 12 2-stroke models ranging from 40 to 220 hp and exemplified by popular models like the 150A. With this line-up, Yamaha Motor went to the 1983 Chicago Boat Show and launched its entry into the important US market.

Success in the USA wins Yamaha’s large horsepower outboards a place in the global market

Exclusive Yamaha technologies including highly durable paint finishes and anti-corrosion measures, along with the rugged durability honed in the world's most demanding commercial-use markets, helped win the Yamaha brand a reputation for durability and reliability in the leisure-use sectors of the US and other mature marine markets. This set Yamaha Motor on course to become the acknowledge world leading brand it is today. Yamaha Motor continues to value the use-specific, market-oriented approach that made it a global brand.
While for the leisure-use markets Yamaha has led the way in developing a growing line-up of high-quality 4-stroke models, at the same time we continue to offer a proud line-up of 2-stroke models ranging from 2 to 250 hp for commercial-use oriented markets around the world. What's more, these models come in a very large number of variations tailored to specific regional and local requirements regarding factors like the actually use conditions and the types of boats they are mounted on. It is this Yamaha dedication to specific customer needs that makes us the brand of choice used and loved by people all over the world today.

Outboard engine / outboard engine

Outboard engine / outboard engine

An outboard motor is a drive system in which the engine and drive parts are mounted on the outside of the hull and is commonly used in small class boats. Basically, there is a mounting method called "out bracket" which is attached directly to the transom of the boat or attached to a bracket integrally formed with the hull, and the rudder is usually made by turning the outboard motor, so it usually has a separate rudder not.

[Merit of outboard motor]

- We can utilize space in shipboards including cockpit effectively.
- Since only the outboard motor can be removed from the boat, maintenance such as repair is good.
- The cabin is relatively quiet because the engine is behind the hull.

Boats with high performance specifications that can be equipped with two high horsepower engines are also increasing. The main engines used are four-stroke gasoline engines, with a wide range of horsepower from 2hp to high horsepower up to 350hp, which can be selected according to various boats and usages. It is a big feature of the machine.

Why Maintenance

Yamaha wants you to have an outstanding ownership experience. Maintenance plays a big part in that. We’ve learned a lot about caring for outboards during our many years as an outboard manufacturer; so here’s some knowledge and simple tips on the subject.

From their painstaking design to their meticulous construction, Yamaha outboards are manufactured to provide you with years of enjoyment. However, they live in one of the harshest environments imaginable. High load, high-RPM operation, extreme temperatures and humidity, saltwater, sun, even long periods of non-use can all exact a heavy toll. And it’s not just Yamaha outboards. All outboards face these same challenges. Regular maintenance is important in helping your outboard meet the demands of these challenging environments, and only you can make sure it happens.

Spending a relatively small amount of time making sure your outboard’s in proper condition is simple to do, and:

• You’ll have more hours of trouble-free enjoyment on the water.
• You’ll preserve your investment with a higher resale value.
• Your boat will be ready when you are.
• It’s easier and costs less to maintain than repair.
• Yamaha dealers stand ready to help.

What are the basics? Keep your outboard ready to run with basic maintenance like:

• Changing engine and lower unit oils every 100 hours
• Flushing regularly
• Replacing fuel filters periodically
• Helping to prevent corrosion

Outboard maintenance doesn’t need to be difficult or expensive. Whether you do it all yourself or have one of approximately 2,000 authorized Yamaha Marine dealers do parts of it for you, we’re committed to helping you maintain your outboard in a way that’s easy to do and easy to understand. Let’s get started.

Power Trim and Tilt

Power Trim and Tilt

Your outboard’s Power Trim and Tilt unit changes the outboard’s thrust angle during operation for maximum performance of both your outboard and your boat. It’s electro-hydraulic, meaning an electric pump moves hydraulic fluid upon command from the operator, tilting the thrust angle out or in. It’s positioned inside the engine bracket, meaning almost constant contact with water, and, depending on where you boat, that can mean saltwater. Still, under normal conditions, this system needs only minimal care in order to function properly.

Cleaning

Make sure to include the PT&T unit in your routine post-trip flushing and wash down procedure. For best effect, first run over it gently with a sponge or a soft cloth soaped up with mild detergent like Yamaclean®. Then, spray the whole unit down with fresh, clean water.

Lubrication.

Periodically grease the top of the trim rams on your PT&T unit to help keep them safe from corrosion and to eliminate those annoying, but harmless, squeaking and popping noises. Be sure to use a high-quality marine-formula grease, like Yamalube® Marine Grease, so it won’t wash off so fast.

Protection.

Keep the trim rams fully retracted when not in use to prevent corrosion build-up. Engage the tilt lock mechanism built into the outboard’s bracket, or install a Yamaha engine support to hold the engine in the tilt-up position. Then, withdraw the tilt rams into the unit by pressing the PT&T down button until they are fully retracted. This keeps all but the very tip of the ram immersed in a bath of PT&T fluid and safe from corrosion. Liberally apply Marine Grease to the ram tips to help keep them corrosion free, too.

 Tip: The built-in tilt lock mechanism is for maintaining tilt for storage or periods of non-use only, such as when mooring. Do not trailer using only this mechanism to support the tilted outboard.

Fluids.

The fluid in your PT&T system is under extreme pressure that can cause molecular shear, which tears apart the fluid’s molecules, resulting in a drastic loss of lubricity. Don’t use substitute oils like motor oil or power steering fluid. Yamaha Performance Power Trim & Tilt Fluid is specially formulated to tolerate a specific amount of water ingestion and still maintain proper operation, all while withstanding extreme pressures. It also contains special anti-foaming agents the others don’t, to maintain critical lubricity.

Valves and Seals.

If you see fluid on the outside of the PT&T unit, or if your outboard won’t stay tilted up (or stay tilted out when running), it may mean that the seals or internal valves are in need of inspection. Have the unit inspected by an authorized Yamaha Marine dealer and, if necessary, disassembled and repaired.

Propeller Maintenance

Your propeller is a key factor in your boat’s performance, and your satisfaction; so don’t overlook it. Maintain it for peak power, performance and efficiency.

It’s all in the eyes.

Give your prop a good look as part of your pre-launch checklist. Are there any bends, nicks, cuts or cracks? Any of these will rob performance and potentially cause damaging vibration to your outboard. If found, get the prop examined and repaired by a qualified propeller repair facility. Your local Yamaha Marine dealer is a great place to start.

Something missing?

If you’ve noticed a decrease in your boat’s performance, but your outboard checks out fine, you’d do well to suspect your prop. Suspended grit, sand and silt in the water slowly eat away at your propeller’s edges. When this happens, your prop may look perfect, but the worn edges can seriously degrade performance.

Beware corrosion.

Even stainless steel props can experience surface discoloration. But it’s easy to clean and protect most props. Try these simple tips:

Rough Cast Mag Wheel Cleaner. Spray on (use caution near painted surfaces), do not let dry or sit more than 30 seconds, agitate with dish sponge, rinse thoroughly, dry, apply paste wax.

Toilet Bowl Cleaner, Hydrogen Peroxide, or Calcium Lime & Rust Remover. For spot cleaning: spray on or put on a rag and wipe over stained area (do not allow to dry). Rinse thoroughly, dry, and follow up with paste wax.

Mild Rubbing Compound or Metal Polishing Paste. For difficult stains: apply to pad and rub in a circular motion until stain is diminished. Buff with a clean cloth, apply paste wax.

Protect the propshaft.

Periodically remove your propeller(s), check for fishing line wrapped around the prop shaft, then grease the prop shaft with a high-quality, high-pressure marine-formula grease like Yamalube® Marine Grease or Molybdenum Grease. This will help make it easier to get the prop off next time, especially in saltwater. When re-installing your propeller, make sure to torque the prop nut to the manufacturer’s specification, and always use a new cotter pin rather than re-using the old one.

Be prepared.

Just like a spare tire, you may need more than one prop. Whether you demand different levels of performance or just want a spare for emergencies; having a second propeller is a very wise choice

Ship Maneuvering During Stormy Weather

Ship Maneuvering During Stormy Weather

It is premised that the departure of the port is cancelled when the stormy weather is expected, and if the weather collapses while sailing, it is expected that the ship will return immediately, but it may be forced to maneuver under the stormy weather. There is a wave change that comes to the point there, but even if you say 1 m wave height, it is not a wave with the same degree of danger. In addition, the shape and period of the waves are greatly different depending on the topography of the sea area and weather conditions. 

Furthermore, safety also varies depending on the structure and size of the ship and the shape of the bottom of the ship, so it is necessary to have some knowledge of how to maneuver in rough weather.

1. It slows down and prevents the bow from falling down the waves into the valley.
2. As the needle holding becomes unstable on this downward slope, correct the course in small steps early.
3. On the uphill, adjust the throttle to control as long as possible this position.

Ship handling point at the time of a wave

Ship handling point at the time of a wave

(1) I climb the waves and slow down when the bow is about a third of the peak. By decelerating, the propeller resists and the bow goes down so as to pass the surface of the wave, so there is no impact. (See Figure A)

(2) Go to the valley and power up just before the bow falls in the valley.

(3) Wave up in the accelerated state and return to (1). However, it is important to be careful if you go beyond the waves with the power-up, as the hull jumps forward from the waves and may be hit on the surface of the next wave, which may cause injury or damage to the hull. (See Figure B)