2004/2005 FICHT 200HO Motor

[Ozark10]

I bought my first bass boat used in March, a Stratos 295XL Pro with a 200 Evinrude HO. At purchase time I knew nothing of BBC or anything about bass boats in general. The boat/motor was advertised as a 2005 model. I've been feeling good because I learned here that the FICHT motors were discontinued in 2005 with the advent of the etec motors. Also here in this forum I recently saw how to read the model code on the motor to understand details of date of manufacture, etc. I looked at the model on my 200HO and it was E200FHLSOR. Under the model number there is a notation that the motor was manufactured in 6/2004. My question is now whether I should be worried that I have the FICHT? Did they get the problems resolved with the last FICHTs they made? Should I take any particular precautions or any special maintenance now that I know it's a FICHT? Finally, should I run XD-100 instead of the XD-50 that I'm running now because it's a FICHT? The motor runs fine right now at running speeds - but a little rough at idle.

Thanks in advance!

[Javelin389]

Actually the Fichts were discontinued in '02 I believe. The '03 thru '05's are the BRP redesigned DI engines and are solid engines. Just keep up the recommended maintenance on it. As for the oil, XD50 is fine. I started using the XD100 last year because there's not much difference in price. I do feel that it runs better now than it did with the 50, but maybe that's just me.

[rpben9]

Great Motors

[Danrude]

If you are going to use the XD50 make sure that it is de-carbed every 50 hours and change and index the plugs when you do.