Choosing an outboard motor for an inflatable boat or a small boat always involves finding a balance between cost, reliability and performance. In recent years, the market has been actively filled by manufacturers from China and the brand. Loncin It's a leading powerhouse, and many water-engineers are still wary of this technology, but the current reality is that they're dictating their rules, making them look at what Asian plants are offering.
Loncin Industries has been producing internal combustion engines for decades, supplying units to major global companies including BMW, a fact that often surprises the public, but it explains why the geometry of casting and assembly quality of their outboard motors are at an acceptable level. Two-stroke Four-stroke models of this brand are created taking into account the requirements of international certification, which allows them to compete with eminent brands in the budget segment.
In this article, we're not just going to list the dry numbers from the catalog, but we're going to look at real-world experience, identify design weaknesses, and figure out who really should pay attention to the brand. The most important advantage of Loncin engines is the availability of spare parts and the possibility of their repair in the conditions of domestic workshops. If you are facing the choice of the first engine or looking for a replacement for the burned unit, this material will help you make an informed decision.
Brand history and production capacity
Loncin Holdings is headquartered in Chongqing, often called the motor capital of China, and is home to huge production lines that produce millions of units each year, equipped with state-of-the-art robotics systems that minimize human error in assembling critical components. Quality control at the exit from the conveyor is carried out in several stages, including a tightness check and a test run of each instance.
Loncin had been engaged in OEM manufacturing for a long time, which meant producing engines under the brand names of other companies, which gave engineers invaluable experience and access to advanced technologies from Western partners. When the company decided to go into the market under its own name, it already had the technological base. Loncin It is not just a Chinese consumer, but a serious player whose engines can be found on the water from Europe to South America.
The production is focused on anti-corrosion treatment, and the aluminum alloys used for cylinder and diewood blocks undergo special treatments that increase their resistance to salt water. Of course, the level of protection is inferior to top Japanese counterparts, but for freshwater bodies and short-term outlets in the sea, this is quite enough with proper care.
Technical features and model range
Loncin’s range of engines covers a wide range of needs, from compact “spots” for quiet fishing to powerful glides, and is based on two-stroke models, which are valued for their simplicity of design and high specific power. four-stroke engines that are characterized by low fuel consumption and environmental friendliness.
The design of the motors is based on the classical scheme: vertical cylinder arrangement, loop purge (for two-stroke) and closed-loop water cooling. The ignition system most often uses electronic CDI, which does not require adjustment of advance and is characterized by the stability of spark formation. For models with a capacity of more than 15 hp, the system is implemented. CDI with variable advance angleThis allows you to optimize the engine at different speeds.
Secrets of Model Marking
The model name often encrypts power and launch type. For example, the acronym "FT" may indicate a four-stroke engine, and the numbers indicate horsepower.
A major feature is the versatility of the lower units: many models can be fitted with different pitch propellers, allowing the engine to be adapted to a specific boat and tasks. The standard length of the lower unit is 381 mm (S) or 508 mm (L), which covers the needs of most owners of PVC boats and small aluminum boats.
Below is a comparative table of popular models, which helps to orient in specifications:
| Model | Type of engine | Power (hp) | Weight (kg) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loncin 2.6 | two-stroke | 2.6 | 9.5 | Built-in tank, easy start-up |
| Loncin 5.0 | two-stroke | 5.0 | 19.0 | Neutral gas, tiller control |
| Loncin 9.9 | two-stroke | 9.9 | 26.0 | Electronic ignition, 2 cylinders |
| Loncin 15.0 | two-stroke | 15.0 | 34.0 | Increased lower unit, powerful traction |
| Loncin 20 (4T) | four-stroke | 20.0 | 45.0 | Low spending, quiet work |
Advantages and Disadvantages of Chinese Assembly
An objective analysis of any equipment is impossible without weighing the pros and cons. In the case of Loncin engines, the advantages are primarily related to pricing. The cost of a new unit can be one and a half to two times lower than that of European or American analogues of the same power. For many anglers, this becomes a decisive factor in buying new equipment instead of used.
But there are some nuances to be aware of, and the quality of the aluminum casting can vary from batch to batch, and there are some small surface defects that don't affect functionality, but are visually unpleasant. regular-rotor, coming in the set, often made of soft alloy and are prone to chipping when hitting underwater obstacles.
Replace the standard screw with a reinforced aluminum or composite analog immediately after purchase - this will increase the efficiency of the engine and protect the lower unit from damage during impacts.
The disadvantages include the noise of the two-stroke models at high revs. The exhaust resonance is sometimes transmitted to the pump, which creates discomfort during the long transition, this problem is solved by installing additional noise insulation linings or switching to four-stroke modifications that work much quieter.
However, the repairability outweighs many disadvantages: the engine design is not oversaturated with complex electronics, and the standard size of the units allows you to use parts from other popular Chinese brands (Hidea, Parsun, Sea-Pro) in case of urgent need.
Rules of running and primary start
The life of any internal combustion engine depends on how it was run, and ignoring this is a surefire way to get the piston group bullies and the engine to fail long before the warranty is over. Loncin engines run the test-in process as standard for two-stroke technology, but requires discipline from the owner.
The first start should be made in a barrel of water or on a pond, but not on full gas. The mixture of gasoline and oil should be prepared strictly in the ratio of 1:25 (40 ml of oil per 1 liter of gasoline) for the first tanks. It is not recommended to use cheap mineral oils, it is better to prefer semi-synthetics for two-stroke engines with a marking. TC-W3.
☑️ Checklist of the primary launch
The break-in process takes about 10 hours. The first 2 hours the engine should run at a speed of no more than 50% of the maximum. Then the load can be gradually increased, but avoiding full throttle mode (WOT) for the first 10 hours. If you neglect this rule, the rings will not rub on the cylinder correctly, which will lead to loss of compression.
⚠️ Warning: Never leave the motor running at idle speeds in a barrel for longer than 5 minutes without temperature control. Lack of movement can cause overheating and damage to the thermostat or pump.
Typical malfunctions and methods of their elimination
Like any technology, Loncin engines can fail, most often problems are fuel supply or ignition. One common problem is carburettor pollution. Because Chinese manufacturers sometimes save on fine filters, fine dirt from the tank can clog the jellyplants. fuel-filter in front of the carburetor.
The second common problem is that the crankshaft glands fail, which causes air suction and impoverishment, which can cause overheating, and symptoms: the engine is dead on idles, it's hard to start hot. Replacing the glands requires disassembling the engine and having a special tool, so it's better to trust the service.
Cooling problems are also not uncommon, especially if the motor was operated in algae-covered water bodies, sand and tin clog the control hole and channels of the cooling shirt, and regular flushing of the system with fresh water after each release to salt water will significantly extend the life of the pump.
What do I do if the spark is gone?
The most common fault is the Hall sensor or the ignition coil. Check the gap between the flywheel magnet and the coil - it should be strictly 0.3-0.5 mm. Also make sure that the stop button does not close to the mass.
Service and seasonal storage
To keep the Loncin engine running for a long time, you have to follow maintenance regulations, you have to change the oil in the redtor every 50 hours or at the end of the season, even if it's not visually blackened, it accumulates metal shavings and gear wear products, and you need to use a special transmission oil for outboard motors.
Lubrication of rubbing knots also requires attention. The strands of the lower unit shaft and the rotary mechanism should be lubricated with a consistent lithium lubricant. Ignoring this point can lead to the "feeling" of the shaft, and then disassembling the engine will turn into a nightmare with drilling joints.
When you can preserve it for the winter, you have to make all the gasoline out of the carburetor or add a fuel stabilizer to the tank, and the remaining gasoline is oxidized in a few months and turns into resins that completely clog the channels of the carburetor. Cylinder conservation oil will also not be superfluous: before storage, it is recommended to pour a little oil into the cylinder and turn the crankshaft several times.
Regularly changing the gearbox oil and lubricating the slats are two simple steps that will prevent 90% of expensive breakdowns in your engine.
⚠️ Warning: Do not keep the motor upright on the propeller without special supports. This can lead to oil leaking from the gearbox and water entering through the coils.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
What is the best gasoline to put in the Loncin engine?
For two-stroke Loncin engines, it is recommended to use AI-92 or AI-95 gasoline. The main requirement is freshness of the fuel. Gasoline should not be stored in the tank for more than 30 days. For four-stroke models, use gasoline with an octane number specified in the instructions (usually not lower than 92), and monitor the level of oil in the crankcase.
Can I use the Loncin engine in salt water?
Yes, but with limitations. After each outing, the motor must be thoroughly washed with fresh water to wash off the salt plaque. It is recommended to lubricate the outer nodes more often and check the state of the anodic protection (if the model provides it), in salt water, the engine's resource is reduced faster than in fresh water.
Where can I find Loncin engine parts?
Loncin engine parts are often standardized with other Chinese brands (Hidea, Tohatsu of the old model), found in specialty boat stores, on large marketplaces or ordered from official dealers. Piston groups and carburetors are usually available.
Why does the engine smoke when it's working?
Excessive smoke is common in two-stroke engines, especially when the mixture is in the wrong proportion (too much oil). If the smoke is black and caustic, it may be that the carburetor is not adjusted (rich mixture) or that the piston rings are worn out. White smoke may indicate that water enters the combustion chamber through a gasket breakdown.