Buying the first boat-engine It is always an exciting moment for any boating, especially when it comes to compact and versatile models with a capacity of 5 horsepower. PVC boats light aluminum boats, allowing you to move through the water at a comfortable speed, without violating the strict rules of registration of small craft in many regions.
The market today offers a huge variety of options: from budget Chinese counterparts to time-tested Japanese and European brands. Two-stroke modifications of 5 hp often weigh less than 20 kgThis makes them ideal for transport in the trunk of a passenger car, while the four-stroke versions will delight in the quietness of work and economy, although they will add a few kilograms to the total weight.
In this article we will discuss in detail the pricing policy, technical nuances and hidden aspects of operation, which will help you not to overpay and choose a really reliable unit for your fishing or walks.
Why 5 horsepower: the specifications of the class
The power selection in 5 hp is often dictated not so much by the desire to save, but by legal and technical restrictions. In the Russian Federation and some CIS countries, this power limit allows you to operate a boat without mandatory registration in the GIMS, if the total weight of the equipped vessel with an engine does not exceed 200 kg.
From a technical point of view, 5hp engine It can accelerate an inflatable boat with one adult passenger and minimal equipment to a speed of 15-20 km / h. This is quite enough for confident access to the "big water", overcome the oncoming wind and current. However, it is important to understand that for planing (going on a slide on the surface of the water), this power may be not enough if the total weight of the load is large.
Most of the models in this class are equipped hand-starterBecause an electric launch would require a heavy battery, which would disrupt the balance of the light boat, it is also worth noting the presence of a forced cooling system with off-board water, which requires careful attention to the cleanliness of the intake holes.
⚠️ Warning: When buying a used motor, be sure to check the condition of the lower unit for backlashes. Even a minimal knock during operation can indicate a serious production of gear gears gear gear gear, the repair of which is often comparable to the price of a new Chinese engine.
So the 5bhp class is a trade-off between mobility, legislation, and sufficient traction for small bodies of water, perfect for those who value simplicity: pulled out of the trunk, put in, started up and swam.
Market overview: prices and popular brands
Pricing in the segment of small outboard motors depends on the country of manufacture and the type of tactility of the engine. Yamaha and TohatsuThey're more expensive, but they have a much higher resource before they have to overhaul.
Chinese manufacturers, including brands Hidea, Sea-Pro and ParsunAnd in recent years, we've made a huge leap in quality, and many of them are assembled in licensed factories and use technology similar to Japanese prototypes, but they cost 30 to 40 percent less, and for many fishermen, this is becoming a crucial factor.
Below is a comparative table of average market prices for new 5 hp engines for the current season (prices may vary depending on the region and currency exchange rates):
| Brand and model | Type of engine | Weight (kg) | Approximate price (ruble) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yamaha 5CMHS | two-stroke | 19 | 95 000 - 105 000 |
| Tohatsu M 5B DS | two-stroke | 19.5 | 90 000 - 100 000 |
| Hidea HD5FHS | two-stroke | 19 | 65 000 - 75 000 |
| Yamaha F5AMHS | four-stroke | 25 | 130 000 - 145 000 |
| Parsun F5BMS | two-stroke | 19.5 | 60 000 - 70 000 |
When choosing between brands, consider not only the price tag, but also the availability of authorized service centers in your area. Buying an exotic brand without support can turn into a headache if you need to replace consumables or repair after warranty.
Hidden costs when buying a motor
Buying an engine is just the beginning. Don't forget to budget for the oil for the mixture (for 2T), a separate fuel system tank (if not included), fuel canisters, a lock on the engine (from theft) and a transom wheel for easy transportation. In total, this can add another 10-15 thousand rubles to the original price.
Two-stroke or four-stroke: what to choose
The question of choice 2T and 4T The engine is particularly acute in the 5 hp class. Two-stroke engines are structurally simpler: they do not have a crankcase lubrication system, oil is mixed with gasoline. This makes them easier, cheaper to repair and, importantly for small capacities, they are not afraid of long downtime.
Four-stroke analogues operate on the principle of an automobile engine, with a separate lubrication system; they are quieter, do not require preparation of a fuel mixture (pure gasoline is poured in), and consume 20-30% less fuel, but their weight is often above 25 kg, which is a critical parameter for some users.
If you plan to use a boat for short fishing at close range and appreciate a minimum weight, two-stroke If you like long walks, trolling, or just don't want to mess with mixing oil, overpaying for 4T will justify itself comfort.
- 🚀 Dynamics: Two-stroke engines are faster gaining momentum and have better reception at low revs.
- 🔇 Noise: Four-stroke engines are much quieter, which is important for lovers of quiet fishing.
- 🛢️ Maintenance: 4T require regular replacement of engine oil in the crankcase, 2T - only a high-quality mixture.
- 📉 Ecology: 4T emits less harmful substances, as they do not burn oil with gasoline.
Such solutions are rare due to the high cost.
Technical specifications and capabilities
Considering technicalThe key indicator is the gear ratio, and most 5 hp motors have a ratio of 2.08:1, which provides a good balance between traction and speed.
The ignition system in modern models is predominantly electronic (CDI), which eliminates the need to adjust the gaps of candles and ensures stable start in all weather.
The fuel system is also worth noting: budget models can be equipped with an integrated tank, which is convenient, but limits the range. Separate 12-liter remote tanks allow you to travel long distances without refueling, but increase the size of the equipment.
When running a new engine, strictly observe the proportion of oil in gasoline specified in the instructions (usually 1:25 for the first tanks). Using cheap mineral oil instead of semi-synthetics can lead to exhaust window coking and loss of power after the first fishing.
And don't forget about the lower unit. The length of the lower unit should be the height of the transom of your boat. The standard for inflatable boats is 381 mm (short leg, S), for boats is 508 mm (long leg, L). Installing a short motor on a high transnec will lead to cavitation and overheating, and a long one will lead to huge water resistance.
Fuel consumption and economy
One of the most common questions that beginners ask is, "How much does he eat?" In a 5 hp class, it's a very good idea. fuel It depends on the load on the transom and the speed of the movement, and on average, a two-stroke engine consumes about 1.5-2.5 liters of mixture per hour when running at full gas.
At cruising speeds of about 70-80% of the maximum, the flow rate drops to 1-1.5 liters. Four-stroke brethren in similar conditions will produce about 0.8-1.2 liters of pure gasoline per hour. The difference seems small, but when used actively during the season, it becomes noticeable.
The economy also depends on fuel quality: the use of gasoline with an octane number below the recommended (usually an AI-92 or an AI-95) can lead to detonation and lower engine efficiency.
⚠️ Warning: Never store a residual motor in a carburetor for long periods (e.g., in winter) and the gasoline evaporates, leaving a resinous plaque that clogs the jellyfish. Before preservation, run the fuel out of the float chamber completely.
To calculate the range, you can use a simple formula: divide the tank volume by the average flow rate. For example, with a tank of 12 liters and a flow rate of 2 liters / h, you can be on the road for about 6 hours of active movement.
☑️ Check before buying a used motor
Maintenance and engine life
Resource of the modern boat-engine With a 5 hp capacity of between 1,000 and 3,000 hours of motorized care, the key to longevity is the regular replacement of spark plugs and the use of quality oil. For two-stroke drivers, oil is the blood of the engine.
The cooling system requires periodic cleaning of the control hole ("pissoon"). If the water stream becomes weak or intermittent, this is a signal that the water pump or cooling shirt clogs, ignoring this symptom leads to overheating and jamming of the piston group.
The gearbox also needs_attention_. At least once a season, it is recommended to check the condition of the oil in the gearbox. If the oil is "coffee with milk" when draining, then water has got into it through the glands, and they need to be replaced urgently.
Lubrication of control units (gas handles, rummel) and points of attachment of the motor to the transom should be made by special marine lubricants, resistant to washing out of water.
Regular maintenance is cheaper than major maintenance, simple prevention takes 15 minutes, but extends the life of the engine by hundreds of hours.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to register a 5 hp outboard motor in GIMS?
According to the current legislation of the Russian Federation, engines with a capacity of up to 5 hp (inclusive) do not require registration if the total weight of the vessel with the engine and equipment does not exceed 200 kg. However, the rules may change, so it is always worth checking the current information in the local branch of the GIMS.
Which oil is best used for a two-stroke engine?
Only special oils for outboard motors with markings must be used. TC-W3Automotive oils for two-stroke engines (for example, sawsaws or motorcycles) are not suitable, as they are not designed to work in an aqueous environment and can cause failure.
Can the motor be transported on the side or upside down?
Four-stroke engines are strictly forbidden to be placed on the side or flipped, because oil from the crankcase can get into the cylinder, which will cause a hydraulic shock when starting. Two-stroke engines are more resistant to transport, but they are better transported in an upright position or on a special transom wheel to avoid leaking fuel and oil.
Why does the engine stop at high speeds?
This is most often due to a lack of fuel (a fuel filter, hose or sapoon in the tank lid is clogged) or problems with the ignition system (a breakdown of the high-voltage wire, a malfunction of the switch), and the cause may be air suction through the gasket of the carburetor.