All About Outboard Boat Engines

At ARG Marine, we want our customers to know as much as possible about boats and outboard motors so that they can make informed decisions on what to buy in Palm Beach Gardens. Today we’re going to take a look at what exactly is an outboard motor, and they work.

What Is An Outboard Boat Motor?

Outboard motors are mounted on the back of a boat. The gear case and propeller of the motor are generally submerged during boat operation, but they can be tilted up out of the water when necessary. Tilting the motor out of the water is necessary for several situations. When the boat isn’t being used, it prevents the growth of marine vegetation and corrosion. During operation, the motor can be tilted out of the water when going through shallows to keep it from being damaged by debris.

In the past, outboard engines were generally all in the two-stroke design. However, technology has vastly improved for both two-stroke and four-stroke outboard motors. Both two-stroke and four-stroke motors are now available in direct fuel injection with lower emissions. Originally, two-stroke engines mixed oil with gas to lubricate the engine, but these days you can get direct fuel injection two-strokes that separate oil and gas.

Modern outboard engines, whether two-stroke or four-stroke, are now designed to be low-emission and run smoother and quieter. Four-stroke engines are more like automotive engines in that they have a separate oil reservoir where you can check the level with a dipstick. Modern two-stroke engines have a targeted injection design, which draws oil into the engine from a reservoir during operation. In four-stroke engines, you need to change the oil and filter regularly like a car. In two-stroke engines, you simply keep an eye on the reservoir and top it off as necessary.

Direct Fuel Injection

IN a direct fuel injection outboard, the fuel is directly injected into the combustion chamber where it is ignited by a spark plug. The fuel spray here has a high level of atomization, which quickly lowers the combustion chamber temperature. This results in more engine power, less fuel consumption and lower emissions. Engines with DFI start quickly and operate with precision.

Electronic Fuel Injection

In an electronic fuel injection outboard, the fuel is injected into each cylinder through the incoming air. The fuel spray hits the hot intake valve, which cools the valve and vaporizes the fuel before it gets into the combustion chamber. The fuel-air mixture is then ignited by a spark plug. Like DFI, EFI results in quick starting and lower fuel consumption.

Carbureted Fuel Induction

The most basic type of fuel induction is a carburetor. Modern four-stroke outboards with carburetors are often fully calibrated to meet modern emissions standards and have improved fuel economy vs. older two-stroke engines with carburetors.

Come to ARG Marine for all your used and new outboard needs as well as for new and used boats. We are one of the largest dealers in the world located in one of the boating capitals of the world. Visit our website or physical location today!