Flushing Tohatsu 9.8

[Po]

I just purchased the new Tohatsu 9.8 4-stroke, and used last weekend towing inflatable toys with kids. I loved the engine. Starts easy, and is quiet and powerful.<br /><br />I would like to ask the list if anyone knows the proper flushing procedure after each use. The motor has a screw in the LU starboard side. I used a flushing adapter from my Honda BF15, and it fits. Question that I have is whether I need to run the engine to flush, or just plug in the garden hose and let it flush without runing. The Honda does not need to run to be flushed. I could if I wanted to, but according to Honda it is not necessary. Just wondering whether Tohatsu is the same.<br /><br />Another question. Am I right that the Tohatsu 9.8 does not have an oil filter? That is great. Makes changing oil that much easier. Does it shortens the engine life?

 

[phatmanmike]

Re: Flushing Tohatsu 9.8

tohatsu should not need to run to be flushed, but i would run it if possible... but it DOES make flushing it easier at night or such<br /><br />m ikey

 

[Luna Sea]

Re: Flushing Tohatsu 9.8

Isn't there a "break in" procedure for the Tohatsu/Nissan line? My Johnson gave me a 10 hr. break in procedure, in which I'm sure "towing" is a no no........

 

[DJ]

Re: Flushing Tohatsu 9.8

What does the owners manual say? <br /><br />The Nissan/Tohatsu website has owners manuals available to download.<br /><br />I would not look at no oil filter as a benefit. It's a cost saving decision, made at your expense.

 

[Po]

Re: Flushing Tohatsu 9.8

I read the manual, and don't recall specific mention of whether running is required or not required. That is why I asked.<br /><br />As to towing water toys during the break-in period, I was careful to observe the rpm. The manual states that you should not rev more than 50% WOT during the first 1/2 hour, no more than 75% WOT during the first 2 hours, and so on. I was able to tow the toys with just approximately 60% WOT (judging from the little graph on the tiller. Not an exact measurement since I don't even know what the WOT will be as I have not taken it that far). I was very pleased that I could generate that much power with just approximate half throttle. The kids were happy at least. I figure we were going about 12 mph, plenty fast for a 7 year old. The boat is Livingston 10 catamaran, very efficient hull, and soft ride in a chop.

 

[DJ]

Re: Flushing Tohatsu 9.8

TARP,<br /><br />Didn't mean to come across as too strong. I just tend to be be VERY honest regarding my opinions.<br /><br />If you're happy, we're all great. Keep dragging the young'ns around, they'll never forget it. <br /><br />Enjoy.

 

[mike76]

Re: Flushing Tohatsu 9.8

Hey Tarp, I am thinkin about getting this motor for trolling. Just wondering how quiet it is and how slow it goes down? Do you have a long or short shaft on that Livingston?

 

[Po]

Re: Flushing Tohatsu 9.8

No problem DJ. I didn't take it the wrong way at all.<br /><br />Boater Mikey, I have the short version for the Livingston 10. That is what Livingston recommends. I haven't adjusted the height to see if it performs better at height other than the transom. I haven't installed one of those adjustable power jacks to adjust the height of the outboard either. This is just a dinghy, and I want to keep it simple.<br /><br />Concerning noise, it is average I guess. At WOT it is a little hard to talk without shouting. But at idle you can barely hear it. It will idle down to just about 0.5 knot. I haven't trolled it for long periods of time, but at 1/4 throttle it just purrs along nicely and smoothly. I would think that it makes a good trolling motor for fishing.<br /><br />My reason for choosing the Tohatsu was its weight. For a 9.8hp, it is light enough that I can still pull it out of the transom and move it to the trawler. The weight is also important because I lift the dinghy using the davit with the motor on sometimes. Since the davit does not have a winch, it is just my muscle and a block and tackle.<br /><br />So far, I am a happy customer.

 

[Po]

Re: Flushing Tohatsu 9.8

Just a clarification. I read the manual more carefully, and talked to the sales rep. Both recommend that I run the engine at idle speed while flushing.<br /><br />My procedure is to disconnect the fuel, hook the water hose to the flushing port using an adapter that I bought for the Honda 15, run the engine for about 5 minutes to use up all the fuel in the carburetor, disconnect water, and hose down the exterior of the motor. I am surprised how long it runs with just the fuel in the carb.