Choosing a first or secondary engine for a boat is always about balancing cost, reliability and traction performance. In the 9.8 horsepower budget two-stroke engine segment, the brand holds a special place. RafferPotential buyers often seek information about how the Chinese assembly meets the stated parameters and how the equipment behaves in real operating conditions.
Analysis of numerous forums, video blogs and reports from water bodies allows you to make an objective picture. Raffer outboard motor 9.8 It's often compared to popular Tohatsu and Hidea models, and for good reason, because they do have a lot in common structurally, but the devil lies in the details of the build quality, materials and factory settings, which can vary significantly from batch to batch.
In this article, we will not retell the dry numbers from the manual, but will analyze the live experience of using. You will learn about the hidden problems that users face, how to solve them, and whether it is worth saving by choosing this brand instead of more eminent competitors. Critically important point for longevity of this engine is the correct primary break-in on a high-quality mixture, ignoring which in 80% of cases leads to bullying piston group in the first season.
Technical specifications and design features
The engine is a classic two-stroke water-cooled design. The cylinder capacity is 169 cubic centimeters, which is standard for the 9.8 hp class. The weight of the power plant in full ranges from 25-26 kilograms, making it relatively easy to install on the transom of small inflatable boats or aluminum "kazak". The ignition system is built on the basis of CDI, which provides a stable spark even with a discharged battery, since the motor is able to operate autonomously.
An important feature is the presence of a forced lubrication system through the exhaust windows and the ability to adjust the angle of ignition advance. The carburetor installed in the factory is most often of the Mikuni type or its licensed copies. Fuel system Requires the use of AI-92 or AI-95 gasoline in a mixture with two-stroke oil in a ratio of 1:50, although many experienced boaters recommend during the break-in enrich mixture to 1:40 for better lubrication of rubbing vapors.
- 🚀 Power: The actual power on the propeller shaft is often around 8.5-9 hp, which is fair for this class, but below the stated marketing 9.8.
- 💧 Cooling: Water is drawn through the intake holes in the lower unit, the system has a control jet ("pisser") for visual monitoring of the pump.
- ⚙️ Transmissions: The gear ratio of the gearbox is usually 2.08:1, which provides good torque at low revs.
⚠️ Attention: Standard bolts fastening of lower unit to the lower unit (foot) often have the property of spontaneous unscrewing due to vibration. It is recommended immediately after purchase to check their puff and use a thread fixer or install grover washers.
The lower unit design is made of aluminum alloy, which provides good corrosion resistance, but requires regular freshwater washing after entering salt water. The propeller cord is standard, which makes it easier to find spare parts in the event of an underwater obstacle. In general, the engine architecture is simple and maintainable, which is highly appreciated by owners operating equipment in remote regions.
Real fuel consumption and dynamic performance
One of the most common questions owners have is how much this machine eats, and the theoretical calculations for two-strokes are about 300 to 350 grams per horsepower per hour. Raffer 9.8 It can be measured in the range of 2.5 to 3.5 liters per hour when driving half a gas (cruising speed). When driving at full gas (cut-off), the flow rate can reach 4 liters, which is quite consistent with the norms for two-stroke classics.
With a standard propeller (typically 7-8 inches) the engine confidently displays a 3.2-3.6 meter long PVC boat with one passenger for planing. If the load increases, there is a thrust failure at low revs, which is typical for carburetor motors without a mixture enrichment system when a sharp throttle opens.
| Mode of work | Turnovers (roughly) | Fuel consumption (L/h) | Speed (PVC 3.2m, 1 person) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Idle move | 1000-1500 rpm | 0.6 - 0.8 | ~ 5 km/h |
| Trolling/Economics | 2500-3000 rpm | 1.5 - 2.0 | ~ 15-18 km/h |
| Full gas. | 5000+ rpm | 3.0 - 3.8 | ~ 30-33 km/h |
It is worth noting that replacing the standard propeller with a faster one (for example, with 9 inches increments) can improve the maximum speed on light boats, but worsen the exit to planing with a full load. Fuel economy It also depends heavily on the quality of the fuel mix and the carburetor setting, and not only does a mixture that is too poor increase the risk of overheating, but it can paradoxically increase the flow rate due to power loss and the need to keep the gas open more.
To accurately measure fuel consumption, use a transparent capacity of known volume (e.g., 5 liters) connected to the engine instead of a regular tank, which will give a real picture of your engine's appetite in specific conditions.
Typical Problems and Childhood Disease Models
Despite the overall reliability of the design, service center statistics and owner reviews reveal a number of recurring problems, the most common being the quality of sealing ossils. Over time (usually after 50-70 hours) oil leaks from the gearbox or water enters, which requires timely replacement of seals with better quality analogues, for example, firms. NOK or SKF.
The second most common problem is the ignition system. The ignition coil and switch (CDI) sometimes fail before the declared resource, especially if the tightness of the hood is broken or there are problems with the grounding. Symptoms manifest themselves in unstable idling or complete engine failure. Also, users complain about the quality of lower unit plastic, which can crack when hitting a log or stones.
- 🔧 Roompell anchorage: The cranking mechanism often has a backlash that increases over time, requiring periodic lifting or the installation of additional washers.
- 💨 Carburetor: Factory mix quality settings are often too poor, leading to overheating of the candle and piston.
- 🌡️ Thermostat: In some engine revisions, the thermostat can jam in the closed position, causing a sharp increase in temperature and power discharge.
⚠️ Attention: If you notice that the control jet of water has become weaker or has disappeared, immediately turn off the engine. Continuing to operate without cooling will lead to deformation of the cylinder head and expensive repairs in a few minutes.
Another "disease" is vibration at medium speeds, which is due to the imperfect balancing of the crankshaft and the shaky piston group in the factory, the problem is solved by installing additional counterweights or replacing the screw damper with a better one, but for most users this is just an unpleasant feature that does not affect functionality.
The secret to quiet work
Many owners note that replacing the standard propeller damper with a rubber damper from Tohatsu 9.8 engines significantly reduces the level of vibration and noise transmitted to the boat’s transom.
breaking in: rules, mixtures and first hours of work
The breaking in process is fundamental to the durability of any two-stroke engine, and Raffer The factory manual requires 10 tanks of fuel to be produced in a gentle mode, but the experience of mechanics suggests that the approach should be more flexible, the main rule is not to give full turns in the first hours of operation, so that the rings rubbed against the walls of the cylinder without forming bullies.
To prepare the mixture, use only high-quality two-stroke oils with tolerance. TC-W3The ratio for the first 5 hours of operation should be 1:25 (40 ml of oil per 1 liter of gasoline) to ensure maximum lubrication of rubbing surfaces. After that, you can switch to a standard ratio of 1:50. Gasoline should be fresh, preferably AI-95, since the octane number affects detonation resistance.
☑️ Checklist of proper breaking in
During the break-in, you need to periodically change the position of the throttle valve, not lingering long at one speed. This helps the rings to rub evenly throughout the height of the cylinder. It is also important to monitor the temperature of the body. If the engine is hot to the touch, you should slow down or check the cooling jet. After the first 10 liters of the mixture, it is recommended to replace the spark plugs with new ones, since the old ones are already covered with charcoal from the rich mixture.
High-quality break-in on the enriched mixture (1:25) in the first 10 hours increases the resource of the piston group of the Raffer motor in one and a half to two times.
Carburetor setup and maintenance
Factory carburettor settings are rarely ideal for specific operating conditions and fuel quality in your area. The adjustment procedure requires a tachometer, as the "hearing" setting often leads to errors. Two main screws are regulated: the idle quality screw (L) and the high-speed screw (H), although on many budget models the H screw may be silenced or absent.
First, the engine warms up for 5-10 minutes. Then the mix quality screw is idled until the speed starts to fall, then it is twisted back half-rotated. The mix quantity screw (throttle limiter) regulates the minimum stable revs. If the motor stalls when the gas is opened sharply, the mixture is too poor and the L screw needs to be twisted out by another 1/8 revolution.
The order of basic tuning of the carburetor:1. Warm up the engine for 5-10 minutes.
2. Set the screw L (Low) in the middle position.
3. Smoothly twist the screw L, maximum revolutions.
4. Select a stable 1000-1100 rpm idle screw.
5. Check the reaction to gas (no failures should be made).
Regular maintenance also involves cleaning fuel filters (rough and fine cleaning), which are often clogged with dirt from the tank. Candle caps You need to remove carefully, holding on to the metal tip, so as not to damage the high-voltage wire. The grease of the pumping points and cables is carried out by consistent lubrication once a season or after each intensive operation in salt water.
Comparison with competitors: Tohatsu, Hidea, Sea-Pro
There are many analogues in the market, and Raffer frequently Tohatsu M9.8BTohatsu wins as a casting, assembly accuracy and materials reliability, but loses in price that can be 30-40% higher. Hidea, being a direct clone of Tohatsu, occupies an intermediate niche, offering good quality at a price higher than that of Raffer but lower than that of the Japanese original.
Sea-Pro and HDX are other popular brands, often assembled in the same factories as Raffer, and the difference between them can be minimal, consisting only in the color of the plastic, the configuration (a tank, candles included) and the policy of service centers. Raffer owners often note that the engine is not inferior to more expensive analogues, but requires more careful attention and frequent maintenance.
- 💰 Price: Raffer is usually a third cheaper than Tohatsu, making it attractive to beginners.
- 🛠️ Repairability: Parts are suitable from Tohatsu 9.8, which makes it easier to find components in the outback.
- 📉 Liquidity: Tohatsu used motors sell faster and more expensive than Raffer, which loses in price more actively.
If you plan intensive commercial operation or frequent long-distance hikes where reliability is critical, overpaying for Tohatsu may be justified. For weekend fishing, hunting or use as a spare engine Raffer 9.8 outboard motor It seems to be a rational choice, allowing you to save your budget without critical loss of driving performance.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Which screw is better to put for PVC boats 3.2 meters?
For a boat 3.2 meters long with one to two passengers, the best would be a 7 or 8 increments propeller. The regular propeller is usually good. If the boat is heavy (metal) or you often walk full load, you can try a 6 increments propeller to improve traction, but the top speed will decrease.
Can I use oil for chainsaws in this engine?
Not recommended: Chainsaw oils (JASO FB, FC) are not designed to work in an aqueous environment and do not have the necessary detergent and corrosion-resistant properties. TC-W3Designed specifically for motors.
Why does the engine stop on idle after heating up?
The most likely cause is contamination of the carburetor or misconfigured propeller quality mixture, it is also worth checking the ignition system (the candle cap) and making sure that the fuel tank does not get water, sometimes the problem lies in the air suction through the gasket between the carburetor and the engine.
How often should you change the oil in the gearbox?
The oil should be replaced in the gearbox every 50-100 hours or once a season, before winter storage. The oil should be transparent; if it has become milky in color (emulsion), then the sealing of the ossels is broken and water has entered the gearbox.
Is it really possible to accelerate this engine to 40 km / h?
A lightweight PVC boat with a single pilot and a properly matched propeller can achieve a speed of 38-40 km/h on GPS, but for heavy boats or at full load speed will be 28-32 km/h, which is normal for a power of 9.8 hp.