A brief FICHT education

[MikeSD]

Hi folks-

I'm looing at a late 90's Triton bass boat that has been outfitted with a 2003 Evinrude 225hp outboard. The marine dealership selling the boat says it's a 225 HO ETEC, but the cowling says its a 225 FICHT RAM.

I don't know much about these motors, other than what I've read and heard, mostly negative. I wonder if any of you could help support or dispel some of the concerns I have?

- I have heard that the FICHT motors were trouble, but that that is generally concentrated on the years 99 and earlier, and most of these were the smaller motors (under 175hp).
Is this a good rule of thumb?

- I've heard that after Bombardier bought out OMC in 2001, the quality of the engines was much better after. True/false?

- A 2003 model would be right about the time ETECs came out, is this true? Maybe this motor has a different cowling for some reason?

- On these motors, I have heard that there are relatively minor fixes or upgrades that can be done that solve the issues that these motors (seem to) have. Is this a correct statement?

Thanks guys, any further info you can give me to help me make an educated decision would be appreciated.


Modified by MikeSD at 2:44 PM 7/8/2010

[SEAHORSE]

<table width="90%" cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 align=center><tr><td>Quote, originally posted by MikeSD &raquo;</td></tr><tr><td class="quote">Hi folks-

I'm looing at a late 90's Triton bass boat that has been outfitted with a 2003 Evinrude 225hp outboard. The marine dealership selling the boat says it's a 225 HO ETEC, but the cowling says its a 225 FICHT RAM.


- A 2003 model would be right about the time ETECs came out, is this true? </td></tr></table>


How about a complete model number and then we can tell you exactly what motor it is ?

[MikeSD]

I was able to see the boat in person today.

The model number on the engine is: E225 FHL STA

[SEAHORSE]

That is a Bombardier built 2003 Evinrude FICHT engine, not an E-TEC.

They are good motors, but have a trained tech check it out completely first then give you the engine report that is stored in the motor's computer.

[Bassmeister]

What Seahorse said! I have an 03 and it's been a good engine.

[MikeSD]

Thanks guys, I appreciate the info.