Mercury launches new 25hp, 30hp outboard engines
Lightness and performance a focus of Mercury’s new 25hp and 30hp outboard engine rangeMercury has introduced an all-new 500cc three-cylinder outboard engine platform that will become the foundation for a new-generation 25hp and 30hp powerplants.
Of note, Mercury claims at 60kg, the new engines are almost 20 percent lighter than the generation they replace and the lightest in their class, faster than before, and easier to operate and maintain.
The engines will be available in 25hp and 30hp FourStroke, and 25hp SeaPro and ProKicker configurations.
Electric-start versions of the outboard engines – those requiring a battery to operate – will come standard with Mercury’s SmartCraft, meaning that even though a boat may be small, it still has access to cutting-edge digital gauges and VesselView Mobile, Mercury’s smartphone-based interface.
It will also allow users to push engine data to any compatible Garmin, Lawrence, Raymarine or Simrad multifunction chart plotters and fishfinders.
More trolling control
The SmartCraft integration will also allow users to set very precise trolling speeds.
“Vessels with SmartCraft integration create a smarter, safer and easier boating experience,” Mercury senior category manager Jim Hergert said.
“These fully coordinated technologies put gauges, sensors, vessel systems and computer-controlled features in one complete package.
“SmartCraft gauges provide vital engine data at a push of a button and anglers can dial in their trolling speed in 10rpm increments with the Troll Control function.”
All engines in the platform are available with an electric or manual start, new-gen tiller or manual forward controls, manual or power trim, and propeller or jet propulsion.
The new engine range is built on a 500cc in-line three-cylinder block with electronic fuel injection for easy starting — battery-free on pull-start models —and a single-overhead camshaft. It uses two valves per cylinder, and will produce up to 17 amps of recharging power on the move.
The 25hp engine will rev out to a maximum of 5800rpm, while the 30hp version will hit 62000rpm. Mercury is light on details on how much faster the new engines are, but claims they produce "impressive torque to move heavy loads with ease".
The less powerful engine will use six fixed trim settings as well as offer the option of power tilt and trim, while the 30hp version is compatible with both gas assist and power tilt and trim.
Easier maintenance
Mercury has also worked on making engine maintenance much easier, building a spill tray under the oil filter to catch any drips, as well as making changes to the fuel filter so that it can be drained of water without needing to use any tools.
Come service time, the gearbox oil can now be drained with the outboard engine sitting in any tilt position.
The engine should be quieter, too, with a balanced powerhead sitting on crafted soft rubber mounts to isolate vibration.
Propeller options include 10.9x10, 10.7x11, 10.6x12 and 10.5x13.
No pricing details were announced.
Specifications
Model: 25hp, 30hp Mercury FourStroke outboard engine
Engine type: Four-stroke single overhead cam, 6-valve
Cylinders: In-line 3-cyl
Fuel management: EFI
Weight: 59.9kg (25hp)/65.7kg (30hp)
Displacement: 500cc
Bore x stroke: 61mm x 57mm
Operating range: 5400-5800rpm (25hp)/5800-6200rpm (30hp)
Shaft length: 381mm (15-inch), 508mm (20-inch)
Alternator: 12V/17A
Trim method: 6-position manual, power trim/tilt (25hp)/gas assist, power trim/tilt (30hp)
Gear ratio: 2.17:1
Recommended fuel: Regular unleaded
Servicing: Annually (or every 100hours after first service)
Warranty: 3+3 years (when serviced at Mercury dealer)
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