For many types of boating, the outboard engine is the answer. But it also raises the question - which is better, two or four rods? Is more motor better? We asked the CANLON GLORIA experts some of the most controversial questions, and here's how they answered them.
When it comes to outboard engines, the question is four-stroke or two-stroke. If you believe what you've heard, the answer is carved in stone - four-stroke rules. But dig deeper and you'll find the answer isn't so clear.
Let's look at the technical differences and distinctions between two-stroke and four-stroke engines. A four-stroke outboard, like the engine in a car in the driveway, burns gasoline directly in the cylinders and circulates lubricant through a separate system. Oil and gas do not mix unless a failure occurs. In contrast, a two-stroke engine burns a mixture of gasoline and engine oil.
A conventional two-stroke engine feeds an oil and gas fuel mixture into the cylinder through the intake valve via a carburetor or injector. During a partial feed, the exhaust valve also opens and up to 30% of the fuel escapes unburned.
When the piston covers the exhaust valve, fuel is injected into the cylinder with precise timing. Both DFI two-stroke and four-stroke engines offer better fuel economy than conventional two-stroke engines because they are computer controlled and burn almost all of the fuel.
Today's two-stroke outboard engines are as smooth and quiet as four-stroke engines. On the other hand, four-stroke engines also eliminate the clear division of two years ago that two-stroke engines are inherently more powerful. The industry once envisioned a 100-horsepower limit because of the extra weight of a four-stroke. But the limit has disappeared.
In the old days, the biggest misconception was that two-strokes were noisy, smelly and not very fuel efficient. Not true today. 2-stroke or 4-stroke? Now it's more a matter of crew preference than a shocking practical difference. In short, modern 4-strokes and DFI 2-strokes are mechanical marvels.
You will see dual (and triple) primarily in offshore fishing applications. In most cases, you can bet they are installed for the peace of mind of boaters who have seen catastrophic engine losses at sea. duals have also won favor for making docking easier.
But to prevent accidents and to make steering to the dock easier, boaters need to pay more money up front - much more. Using a pair of motors for rigging means you have to repeat the controls and often complicates the installation.
Many anglers want two outboard motors when fishing offshore, leaving you high and dry. It really comes down to economics. If the price difference is not an issue, then twins are worth considering. Otherwise, a single call is simpler.
Please drop us a line if you need to buy the engines, we also have C series for sale, and we offer high-quality service and good price, we welcome your enquiry.
