rope/ manual start efi 20hp outboard

G

greenriver

Smolt
I am in the market for a new motor for my jon boat. Going with 20hp efi probably Tohatsu. I am tempted to go with the manual start so no battery
needed. Videos show they start easily. I am 70 and can still shuck a chain saw, but wondering if I am being penny foolish and should shout for
the electric start. Anyone experience with these efi manual starts? Thanks
 
I have a Tohatsu 15hp as my kicker for my ocean boat. It's just there as a "spare tire" in case I need backup power, so it doesn't get used. But when I do fire it up for a test, it turns over every time on the first pull. I think a 6yr old kid could probably grab the rope and turn it over. Super easy.

Tohatsu makes great engines. I think you'd be happy with it.
 
I'm in the boat and motor market. I'm pretty sure "pull starting" one of these new four stroke fuel injected motors won't be an issue for me (75 YO), it's the trim/tilt and lock that makes a power trim/tilt (and therefore start) mandatory (for me).
 
my last two motors have been Tohatsu, 20 HP and 9.9, both electric start w/power tilt. Pull starting a low HP EFI is easy, having to lift them for launching clearance less so, and power tilt = easy to lift to clear weeds from the prop, and ability to adjust trim while underway for max speed...that extra $500 worth every dime
 
Last edited:
At 70 years old life throws challenges from out of nowhere. Treat yourself so life is easier on you for now and the future. After all, you have earned it.

Buy the one with battery.
 
I've been looking at that 20 hp. YouTube videos show it solid, easy starts. Be looking forward to your review.
 
greenriver said:
Went with 20hp electric start from my Mercury dealer. He matched the online Tohatsu price, so for the same $ I got the Merc
tiller and a nearby dealer but just a 3 year not 5 warranty. Will report again after sea trials.
Click to expand...
Nice! Still a Tohatsu with merc decals but I think I remember merc having a thing or two that does separate them from the standard Tohatsu.
 
I have the 20hp Tohatsu EFI with electric start and power tilt. The electric start is nice, but not critical. But, the power tilt is critical. So, I have them both. I also have the long shaft for my deep transom Klamath modified v-hull aluminum boat. The Tohatsu weighs 118 lbs.

I use a 50ah Lithium battery that weighs 18 lbs. It provides the cranking power for the Tohatsu and it also powers my Garmin Chartplotter and my 55 lb thrust electric motor. The Tohatsu has an alternator on it, so while it is running it charges the battery. Cheers, Bryan
 
Last edited:
first sea trial today. I live in KY so launched in the Ohio River. First thing to note is how quiet this motor is at idle, you don' think it is running.
Ran it for 30 minutes, varying the throttle up to half and back.Plenty of power even at break in speeds. Really happy with the purchase and
the adjustable Mercury tiller handle with shifter is icing on the cake.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top