Choosing a power plant for a boat is always about balancing cost, reliability and performance. In recent years, outboard motors have taken a strong position in the domestic market. ZongshenThe Chinese brand, often perceived as skeptical, is actually a powerful industrial concern that has been cooperating with global giants for decades.
Many owners do not even suspect that the engines of their "Japanese" or "European" outboard motors are produced in the factories of this company. Zongshen Marine It uses advanced injection molding and modern metal processing technologies, which allows achieving high efficiency at a relatively low price of the final product, making the brand attractive for both beginners and experienced anglers looking for a reliable working unit.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the design features, advantages and nuances of the operation of this brand's equipment. Aluminum alloys of the ADC12 seriesThe corrosion systems used in the manufacture of cylinder blocks provide exceptional resistance to corrosion in salt water, and will also consider the real fuel consumption and resource capacity of the units in intensive operation.
Brand history and production capacity
Company Zongshen Industrial Group Founded in 1992, it has gone from a small assembly shop to one of the world's largest internal combustion engine manufacturers in three decades, and today it is a vertically integrated holding that controls the entire production cycle, from metal smelting to molding to final assembly and logistics, and it is supply chain control that keeps product costs competitive without loss of quality.
It is important to note that Zongshen not only copying other people's developments, but is an official partner of such companies as Piaggio and Harley-DavidsonThe company's marine division is based on its experience with Japan. Tohatsu European SelvaMany of the Songshen motor models are structurally repeating the time-tested units of these brands, which guarantees their reliability.
The production lines are equipped with robotic systems that minimize the human factor in the assembly of critical components. Each engine undergoes bench testing before being sent to distributors, an approach that allows the brand to increase exports to more than 50 countries every year, including markets with high environmental standards.
- 🏭 Own foundry full cycle provides quality control of the metal.
- 🤝 Partnerships with world leaders (Tohatsu, Selva) guarantee proven engineering solutions.
- 🌍 The environmental standards of production are in line with the requirements of EPA and CARB.
- 🔧 Global network of service centers and availability of spare parts.
Technical features and engine design
Structurally designed outboard motors Zongshen The two-stroke models are divided into two-stroke and four-stroke series, each with its own engineering features, and the two-stroke models are equipped with an oil injection system, which eliminates the need to prepare the fuel mixture manually in a separate container, which not only is convenient, but also prolongs the life of the engine, ensuring accurate dosing of lubrication depending on the speed.
Four-stroke units are characterized by a more complex gas distribution system and the presence of a full-fledged lubrication system of the crankcase. hydraulic compensatorsThis means that the wearer does not need to adjust the valves often, which is a common procedure for budget four-strokes of other brands. Closed-loop cooling system effectively removes heat even when working at high revs.
The engineers have focused on corrosion protection, and all the outer and inner metal surfaces are coated with a multi-layer corrosion-resistant coating. Stainless steel It's used for exhaust systems and water-contact fasteners, and the water intakes are equipped with safety nets to prevent large debris from entering the pump impeller.
Comparison of two-stroke and four-stroke models
When choosing between a two-tact and a four-tact Zongshen You have to build on the tasks that the boat will do. T (e.g., the T9.8 or T18) are less weighted and have better thrust at low speeds, ideal for PVC inflatable boats, where every kilogram per transom matters, and also for use as a spare engine.
Four-stroke models of the series F They can be 30-40% lower than two-stroke counterparts of the same power, and they also work much quieter and do not require mixing gasoline with oil, making it easier for inexperienced users to operate.
However, weight is worth considering: a four-stroke engine is always heavier than a two-stroke engine of similar power. For light inflatable boats, this can be a critical parameter that affects the performance and differentiation of the vessel. Also, four-strokes are more sensitive to transport: they can not be placed on their side without first draining oil unless the design is presumed!
⚠️ Attention: When transporting a four-stroke motor on the side or upside down, always drain the engine oil to avoid it getting into the combustion chamber and subsequent hydraulic shock or candles coking.
Below is a comparative table of popular models, which will help determine the choice:
| Model | Type | Power (hp) | Weight (kg) | Recommended application |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZS 9.8BMS | two-stroke | 9.8 | 26 | PVC boats, small-scale fishing |
| ZS F5BMS | four-stroke | 5 | 25 | Small boats, quiet passage |
| ZS 18BMS | two-stroke | 18 | 39 | Boats, planing |
| ZS F20BMS | four-stroke | 20 | 45 | Heavy boats, long-distance crossings |
breaking in process: step-by-step instructions
Proper running is the foundation of a long life for you. ZongshenMany users ignore this step, which leads to a decrease in the life of the piston group and overheating in the future. The running process is necessary to grind rubbing parts and remove the residue of the factory lubricant.
The first start should be on the ground, in a tank of water (barrel) to make sure the cooling system works. Then the first tank of fuel (usually 5-10 liters) is produced in a gentle mode. Turnover should not exceed 50% of the maximum. Do not hold the throttle in one position for too long, periodically change the load.
The second stage of running takes about 8-10 hours, during which you can gradually increase the load to 70-80% of the maximum, avoid prolonged idling and sharp openings of the throttle (gas to the floor). After every 10 hours of work, it is recommended to check the tightening of the screws of the fastening of the lower unit and transom plates, as vibration can weaken the connections.
The final step is to replace the oil in the gearbox and crankcase (for four-stroke models) after the first 20 hours of operation, and the oil can contain the products of the primary grinding of metal surfaces, and their removal is critical for further use.
Maintenance and typical faults
Regular maintenance avoids costly repairs. Zongshen Main components such as water pump, carburetor and ignition system are structurally simple and accessible for maintenance. Replacement of impeller pump is recommended every 2 seasons or 300 motor hours, even if there are no visible cooling problems.
One of the common problems faced by owners is clogging of carburetor jellies when using poor-quality fuel or a long downtime. If the engine stalls when adding gas or does not keep idling, first of all you should check the state of the fuel filter and blow out the carburetor.
⚠️ Attention: Never leave the engine with gasoline in the carburetor for long-term storage (more than 1 month) The fuel evaporates, leaving a resinous plaque that clogs the thinnest channels of jelly.
Another important aspect is protection against corrosion of the daydvut, which means that after each exit into the salt water, the motor must be washed with fresh water.flushing port) allowing fresh water to be driven through the cooling system, regular lubrication of the data-devut and cable turning points is also mandatory.
Selection of model for specific tasks
Choosing a specific model Zongshen It depends on the type of boat and style of skiing. For light inflatable boats up to 3 meters long and fishing in calm water, light two-strokes with a capacity of 2.5-5 hp are the best choice.
For more serious tasks, such as trolling on a boat or using with boats 3.5-4.5 meters long, it is worth considering four-stroke models with a capacity of 9.8-20 hp. They will provide stable running, low fuel consumption and comfortable noise levels, which is important when on the water.
When buying, pay attention to the length of the daydvut. Short leg (S) is designed for transoms 38-40 cm high, long (L) - for 50-52 cm Installation of the motor with an inappropriate length of the daydvut will either lead to cavitation and overheating (if the screw is too high), or loss of speed due to increased water resistance (if the screw is too deep).
- 🎣 For fishing in small waters, choose two-stroke engines up to 5 hp.
- ⚓ For pleasure boats and yachts ideal four-stroke models from 9.9 hp.
- 🏎️ For water skis and wakeboards, powerful engines from 30 hp with a long daydwoot are required.
- 🔋 Consider the load capacity of the boat: the power reserve of the engine should be at least 20%.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best gasoline for Zongshen outboard motors?
For two-stroke engines, it is recommended to use AI-92 or AI-95 gasoline with an octane number of at least 90. The main requirement is freshness of fuel and no impurities. For four-stroke models, the AI-92 is also optimal, since modern Songshen engines are tuned to this, and the use of AI-95 will not give power gain, but can lead to detonation at high loads.
How often should you change the oil in the gearbox?
The first oil change in the reduct should be made after the first 20 hours of running. Then regular replacement is made once a season (before winter storage or after navigation), or every 100 motor hours. If the oil has acquired a milky shade, this is a sign of water intake, and the replacement should be carried out immediately, first eliminating the cause (usually worn-out oils).
Can you use the Zongshen motor in salt water?
Yes, Zongshen outboard motors are corrosion-resistant and are made of seawater-resistant materials, but after each use in salt water, the cooling system must be thoroughly washed with fresh water and the outer metal surfaces must be lubricated with special lubrication to protect against corrosion.
Does the Zongshen factory guarantee the availability of spare parts in 5-10 years?
Zongshen is a major industrial giant, and the production of parts for popular models has been going on for decades. Engine design is unified with the models Tohatsu and Selva, which also expands the base of compatible parts. Problems with finding piston groups, carburetors and datavuts for models released in the last 10 years, usually do not arise.