 Monthly PaymentsSuzuki Model Year: What does model year elimination mean and how does it affect my Suzuki Outboard?
We have studied the actions of the other major outboard manufacturers and now believe that Model Year Elimination will offer a host of benefits to our Customers, Dealers and Boat Builders. Suzuki Marine can now introduce new outboard models to the market during the boating season, instead of waiting until the model year change. Consumers will be able to purchase these models sooner than in the past. Dealers and Boat Builders will carry a better supply of outboards because they will not have to reduce inventory in advance of a Model Year Change.
What is a Kicker Motor?
A kicker motor is a small motor that generally refers to a model that is used to supplement a larger outboard motor and is often intended for trolling or going slow.
They are also commonly used for sailboats as an auxiliary power source when wind conditions are not favorable or positioning the boat is important. These motors are typically 6 HP to 9.9 HP models with a 20 inch or 25 inch shaft.
Shaft Length: How do I measure?
See the diagram below. You will measure from the top of your transom to the bottom of your keel.
If this measurement is 15" to 17" long, you'll need to purchase a Suzuki outboard motor with a "short" shaft.
If this measurement is 20" to 22" long, you'll need a Suzuki "long" shaft outboard.
To measure the outboard shaft, start from the bottom of the engine mounting bracket and measure to the cavitation plate on the lower unit. Generally most boats need either a short or long shaft, although some boats require a 25" shaft (ultra-long shaft) outboard motor.
PLEASE NOTE:
Depending on the specific Suzuki outboard motor model, some shaft lengths may be 2" longer than the "standard" (for example: a short shaft may be 17" instead of 15" and a long shaft may be 22" instead of 20"). Therefore, depending on the configuration of your keel, the shaft length required by your boat may be different than the recommendations listed here.
Does my Suzuki outboard motor come with the engine oil pre-filled?
No. Four-stroke Suzuki outboard motors do not come pre-filled with oil. You will need to add oil to the crankcase prior to use.
Do outboard motors come with the lower unit oil pre-filled?
Yes. The lower unit gear oil for your outboard motor is pre-filled by the factory. But, we recommend that you ensure it is at the proper level before first use. You can use any SAE 80 or 90 weight oil to replace or add lower unit oil to your outboard motor. For additional information, see your owner's manual.
Can my Suzuki 4-stroke outboard motor be laid on its side for transport or storage?
Yes. You can lay your outboard motor on its side, but it is important that you lay it on the correct side. Your Suzuki outboard will include decals on the motor itself showing which direction you can lay your motor for transport or storage. Please see owner's manual for additional information on transporting and storage of your outboard.
Do electric start models have back-up manual start also?
Yes. All tiller operated Suzuki outboard motors 30 HP and below equipped with electric start also come standard with a manual thru-cowling pull cord. You do not have to remove the cowling or do anything special. All electric start models also feature a 12V charging system as standard pre-installed equipment, so engines can be manually crank-started to recharge a dead or weak battery – saving your boating trip.
Is there anything I need to do before using my outboard for the first time?
Suzuki outboard motors go through an extensive factory inspection, including a tank test prior to being crated for shipment to a dealer. This ensures the highest level of quality and customer satisfaction upon delivery. You will need to add engine oil prior to use – when your new Suzuki outboard motor arrives, you simply add engine oil following the amount and type shown on page 1 of the owner’s manual.
The lower unit gear lube is pre-filled from the Suzuki factory with no assembly is required, and the propeller comes pre-installed for your convenience.
If you purchase an electric start model, your outboard will include battery leads pre-installed from the factory (battery not included). You simply connect the battery leads to your battery. Read the owner's manual carefully prior to operation. The owner's manual contains important information regarding the break-in period, safety, and proper use of your Suzuki outboard engine.