The decision to buy a Tohatsu 9.9 outboard motor is often a turning point for the owner of a small vessel, marking the transition from simple rowing trips to full-fledged trolling and high-speed exits to the water. MFS9.9The new engine offers a unique combination of reliability of two-stroke engines and environmental friendliness of four-stroke, which makes this unit one of the most popular in the CIS market. Unlike competitors, Tohatsu in this capacity provides the possibility of legal registration without the need to obtain a license to operate small vessels, if the appropriate revision is made.
Many anglers and tourists are looking for this model because of its phenomenal low-revving traction, which is critical for trolling predator fishing. Four-stroke cycle The work ensures a quiet course and no vibrations that could scare off the cautious fish, and owners note the economy of fuel consumption, which, during long transitions, becomes a decisive factor in favor of buying this particular brand.
When planning a purchase, it is important to take into account not only the basic cost, but also the complete set, since the market is saturated with modifications with different dayswood length and type of control. Models with an electric starter and lighting generator allow you to connect a sonar or navigator without the use of additional batteriesThis is a great way to make life on the water, and then we'll go through the technical details to make sure you're as informed as possible.
Technical specifications and model range
The 9.9 horsepower engine lineup is represented by several modifications, each of which is tailored to specific operating conditions. MFS9.9B and newer versions MFS9.9CThe engine, which is characterized by an improved fuel injection system and reduced noise, produces enough torque to glid lightweight aluminum boats or heavy PVC complexes with two passengers.
The most important parameter to choose is the type of lower unit, which is denoted by the letter index at the end of the model name. lower unit It is 381 mm (designation S), which is suitable for most transs, but for boats with high sides or specific hull geometry, a long leg of 508 mm (designation L) may be required. An error in choosing the length will lead to cavitation of the screw or, conversely, to excessive deepening and overgrown algae.
The CDI ignition system ensures a stable spark in all weather conditions, and forced water cooling ensures the engine works at full speed without the risk of overheating. The weight of the unit in the region of 36-40 kilograms (depending on the availability of an electric starter) is an acceptable compromise between power and transportability.
- 🚤 Power: 9.9 hp at 5500-6000 rpm, which is the optimal value for boats up to 4 meters long.
- ⚙️ Transmission: a gear ratio of 2.08:1, which provides excellent traction on the screw.
- ⛽ Tank volume: built-in tank for 12 liters with a fuel level indicator, allowing you to go up to 80 km without refueling.
It is worth noting that the design of the crankcase and the cylinder head is made of an aluminum alloy with anti-corrosion coating, which significantly prolongs the service life in salt water. Adjustment of the angle of inclination (trimming) is carried out manually, allowing you to adapt the position of the motor to load the boat and the excitement on the water.
Advantages of four-stroke construction
The transition to a four-stroke engine scheme offers a number of undeniable advantages to the owner, which become noticeable after the first hours of operation. Unlike two-stroke analogues, it does not require mixing gasoline with oil, which eliminates the risk of improper dosage and subsequent failure of the piston group. Clean exhaust It complies with the strictest environmental standards EPA and CARB, which allows the use of such engines on water bodies with limited access for equipment.
The engine life is much higher thanks to a full-fledged lubrication system, where the oil is in a separate crankcase and pumped to rubbing parts. This means that you can safely store the boat with the engine in a horizontal position without fear of leaking oil or drying the gums, which often happens with two-strokes. Tohatsu It allows you to hear the splash of fish and enjoy communication with the interlocutor without the need to raise your voice.
⚠️ Warning: Despite the presence of a lubrication system, before the first start and after prolonged storage, be sure to check the oil level through the probe to avoid oil starvation in the first seconds of operation.
The lack of the need for constant maintenance of transmission oil and replacement of candles more often than the regulations makes owning such a motor less troublesome. Many users note that after 100 hours of operation the engine does not lose power and continues to confidently keep idle turns, which is critical for trolling.
Use only synthetic or semi-synthetic oils of API class SG, SH, SJ, SL or SM with 10W-30 or 10W-40 viscosity to ensure maximum engine protection in all temperature conditions.
Features of deforestation up to 5 hp
One of the main reasons for the popularity of the request "buy a Tohatsu 9.9 outboard motor" is the possibility of official and factory modification to 5 horsepower. According to Russian legislation, engines with a capacity of up to 5 hp inclusive do not require registration in GIMS and the presence of rights of category "M" for control. Tohatsu offers a standard procedure for limiting power, which is performed by replacing the speed limiter in the ignition system or reflashing the CDI module.
The deforestation process takes a little time and can be done in an authorized service center or on your own with minimal technical skills and instructions. Once the restriction is removed, the engine returns its full 9.9 hp, making it a versatile tool: today you fish without a license on a calm lake, and tomorrow you go to a full glimpse on the reservoir.
It is important to understand that when operating in 5 hp, the maximum engine speed is limited electronically, so acceleration will be smooth but slow. However, for heavy boats or in high winds, even in this mode, the thrust of a four-stroke feels better than that of a two-stroke competitor of the same passport power.
Legal aspects of deforestation
Official deforestation is confirmed by the entry in the passport of technical equipment (PTS) or the presence of a certificate of conformity indicating limited power. When checking documents, the inspector of GIMS must have a document confirming the factory refinement to avoid fines for exceeding the power of an unregistered engine.
Model comparison: Electric starter vs manual
When buying, the future owner has to choose between a modification with manual start (Recoil) and the version with electric starter (Electric Start). Models with electric starter, as a rule, heavier by 3-4 kilograms due to the presence of a starter and a more capacious battery, but they provide comfort comparable to the car. Pressing a button or turning the key instantly starts the engine, which is especially valuable in cold weather or after a long downtime.
The presence of an electric starter often implies the presence of an alternator that generates electricity to charge the battery and power the on-board appliances. navigationalA sonar, or even charge a mobile device right on the go without worrying about the discharge of the main traction battery.
| Characterization | Manual launch (Recoil) | Electrical starter (Electric) |
|---|---|---|
| Motor weight | ~36 kg | ~40 kg |
| Launch | Twisting the cord | Knob/Key |
| Generator | Absent or weak | Aye (up to 6A) |
| Price. | Below. | Higher. |
Manual start on modern Tohatsu implemented very high quality: the decompressor system facilitates the jump, making it available even for fragile women or adolescents. However, in extreme situations, when the engine is “filled” or has not worked for a long time, the electric starter can play a cruel joke, discharging the battery, while the pull of the cord is guaranteed to start a working engine.
If you plan long-duration standalone exits using electronics, the model with an electric starter and generator is the no-choice choice, despite the greater weight.
Service and preparation for the season
The durability of an outboard motor is directly dependent on the quality and regularity of maintenance. The first stage, known as break-in, is critical for the burnout of the rubbing parts of the piston group and gear gear gears. The manufacturer recommends that the first 10 hours of operation be gentle, without opening the throttle by more than half, and constantly change the load on the engine.
Regular replacement of motor oil is a mandatory procedure that should be carried out every 100 motor hours or once a year, whichever comes first. Only specialized oils for four-stroke outboard motors should be used, since automotive oils may contain additives harmful to the catalyst and cooling system.
- 🔧 Ignition plugs: Checking the gap and cleaning the scoop every 50 hours.
- 💧 Cooling system: visual control of the control jet of water at each start to check the pump.
- 🛢️ Reductor: Replace transmission oil once a season or when water is ingested (emulsifying).
Preservation for winter also requires attention: completely drain water from the cooling system, treat the inner cavities with aerosol lubrication and store the engine in an upright position, and ignoring these rules can lead to freezing of water residues in the cooling shirt and the formation of cracks in the cylinder block.
☑️ Checklist before first launch after winter
Frequently occurring faults and their solution
Despite its high reliability, the machinery can require attention during operation. One common problem is the difficulty of starting after prolonged downtime, which is often associated with the evaporation of light fractions of fuel from the carburetor, in which cases the use of a mixture enrichment system (Choke) and a few confident jerks of the starter cord help.
Overheating of the engine, signaled by intermittent sound signal and power reduction, is most often caused by the entry of a foreign object into the water intake hole or wear of the impeller pump. Piedfish It is a consumable and requires replacement every 2-3 seasons of active use, even if there are no visible symptoms of malfunction.
⚠️ Warning: Never try to eliminate overheating by watering a hot engine with off-board water from the outside – this can lead to deformation of the metal and irreversible damage to the block head.
Ignition problems, such as spark skips, can be caused by candles or high-voltage wires being burned, and regular candle key diagnostics and visual inspection of electrical equipment prevent the motor from suddenly stopping far from shore.
Where to buy and what to pay attention to when choosing
Buying an outboard motor is an investment that must be protected by an official warranty and quality service support. When you purchase equipment from official dealers, you get not only a guaranteed original product, but also access to the database of the conducted maintenance, which is important for maintaining the liquidity of the engine in future resale. Beware of offers from hand or on untested sites, where restored or counterfeit units can be sold under the guise of new ones.
When choosing a particular model in the store, be sure to inspect the appearance of the package and the engine itself for chips, scratches and traces of operation. Check the completeness: the presence of ZIP (spare parts, tools and accessories), Manuals in Russian and a warranty card with the seller's seal. The absence of any of these elements can be grounds for denial of warranty service in the future.
It is also worth checking the availability of spare parts for this model in your region. The popularity of the Tohatsu brand in Russia guarantees the availability of filters, candles and impellers in almost any service center, which makes owning this engine convenient and predictable.
The secret to long-service rotor
The propeller is a consumable. When hitting an underwater obstacle (stone, log), the impact energy is transferred to the lower unit and gearbox. Timely replacement of the bent screw or installation of a safety sleeve (if designed) will save the gear gears of the gearbox from expensive repairs.
Do I need to register the Tohatsu 9.9 engine in the GIMS?
Motors up to 5 hp (8 kW) are not subject to registration, if you buy a 9.9 hp engine, it is subject to registration, however, if you follow the official process of refining (deforcing) up to 5 hp and this is reflected in the documents, registration is not required. Without the documents of the revision, the inspector will count the production power of 9.9 hp.
What kind of gasoline do I put in Tohatsu 9.9?
For four-stroke Tohatsu engines, unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of at least 92 (research method) or 87 (motor) is recommended. The use of gasoline with a higher octane number (95, 98) is allowed, but is not mandatory.
Can I transport the motor on the side?
Tohatsu four-stroke motors can be transported on any side except upside down, and even upside down if oil is previously pumped out of the crankcase. However, the manufacturer recommends transporting the motor in an upright position or on a smudgeboard to prevent oil leaking into the combustion chamber and contaminating candles.
How often should you change the oil in the gearbox?
The first oil change in the gearbox is recommended after the first 20 hours of running in order to remove the products of the gears' burnout. Then the replacement is made every 100 motor hours or once a year. The color of the oil should be transparent; if it became milky, then the leakiness of the omentums is broken and water has been put into the gearbox.