Yeah, BRP outboards have a bit of a reputation like that
. The old Evinrude/Johnson (OMC) designs that BRP inherited were solid workhorses — simple carbs, strong blocks, and plenty of torque. They could take a beating and still fire up, which is why a lot of us still run them today.
What’s “funny” is how quirky they can be compared to modern four-strokes or even BRP’s own later E-TEC models:
- They sometimes smoke like a chimney when you first start them.
- The choke/primer tricks can be hit or miss.
- They’ve got that unique old-school sound — more of a growl than the purr of newer engines.
- And don’t forget the fuel thirst… those older 2-strokes will let you know where your wallet went!
But when tuned right, they’re reliable, punchy, and keep on trucking long after you’d expect. That mix of ruggedness and quirkiness is what makes them “old but funny” — and why you still see them on the water today.
Do you have a picture of the one you’re talking about? Would be cool to see which model/year you’ve got.
