97 Evinrude 150 FICHT fixable?

I'm the unproud owner of this engine which has experienced alarm and shutdown 3 times now requiring the replacement of sensors at no small cost. The engine will go into safety mode <2000 rpm, and eventually will fail to start. I've been told it's a known problem with the powerhead, the electronic heart of the engine. Doing some research I noted the recall of 98 fichts but not the 97? Any enlightenment would be appreciated.

Re: 97 Evinrude 150 FICHT fixable?

For starters, have you confirmed it is actually a 1997 model, thru the model number?<br /><br />Two of your three symptoms are exactly the same problem I had on my carbed 100 HP Johnson commercial engine. The only difference is, my alarm didn't go off. The cause turned out to be a faulty ground on one of the coils. <br /><br /> ...Bob in Calif...

Re: 97 Evinrude 150 FICHT fixable?

IF I'm not mistaken the Marina I used to work for on the Delta.Herman&helen's when the ficht first came out we where have problems not alot.The ECM basically was the only problem most of the time.One of the OMC rep's came out to check on some of the problem's we where having since we are the largest rental company on the Delta.FROM when ficht first came out we never had to purchase any major part on the engine OMC kept sending us new ecm's.WHEN engine problem's started they replaced the complete powerhead electrical and all.So I would check with your local evinrude johnson dealer and find out or check with the manufacturer.Might get it replaced for nothing.

Re: 97 Evinrude 150 FICHT fixable?

thanks for the input, I did verify it's a 97. <br />The ecm is primarily what has fails each time. I've gotten nowhere with the dealer I bought the engine from or genmar. If anyone has any other contacts, or fixes I can try I'd sure appreciate it. Does anyone know if the new powerheads address the problem and resolve it? It would be an expensive fix but worth considering if it fixes the problem.

Re: 97 Evinrude 150 FICHT fixable?

What is the model number on your motor? Are there any silver EPA stickers on your replacement powerhead.<br /><br />What kind of sensors had to be replaced? Does your ECM have fins on it and is aircooled, or are there 2 hoses for water cooling?<br /><br />DFI Technologies repairs ECMs and does a good job, have you contacted them?

Re: 97 Evinrude 150 FICHT fixable?

Theres also a new player in the EMM/ECU repair field -- Fuel Injection Technologies. You can reach them at 847-731-7309. Dont be suprised if they team up with CDI/Rapair.<br /><br />Good luck!

Re: 97 Evinrude 150 FICHT fixable?

thanks again for the input, I'll research these folk and let ya'll know the results.

Re: 97 Evinrude 150 FICHT fixable?

jjhbts,<br /><br />I would not expect any $$$ help. That engine was produced by the now defunct OMC long before it was sold, in bankruptcy court, to Bombardier.