Evinrude Fich question - The Hull Truth

Mark L · 07-18-2007, 08:28 PM

I am considering a boat on the Trading Post here, but as usual there are guestions about the engines. The seller says the engines are year 2000 Evinrude FICH with factory updates in 2003. Since the updates he has not had any problems with them. Even with this, the boat has not sold and most lookers have said it is because of the engines. The boat is a Grady White and is priced just about in my price range. But if the engines are unreliable than I cannot afford to buy it and turn around and repower. I guess the question is, are these engines something to stay away from, or are they worth taking a chance on? Any help would be appreciated.

Mark

A1 Outboard · 07-18-2007, 11:28 PM

Get the full model numbers and serial numbers and I'll see what I can find out.

The only updates were probably done in '01 or so as they were for injector retainers so they would not come loose and leak fuel.

The 2000 were the redesigned FICHTS called the FICHT Ram and were better than the older ones. The '01's were better and Bombardier took over and built the '02 and later motors. Those were the best of the bunch.

Don't forget that those are 8 year old motors and who knows how they were maintained and serviced. Most likely there is very little time on them which makes the problematic with stale fuel, corrosion, etc.

If you are still interested in them, make sure you hire a trained tech who will check them over completely and give you the enigine history printout from his laptop using the FICHT diagnostic software.

Mark L · 07-19-2007, 12:25 AM

So without a lot more information you would suggest staying away. And if I were to precede it would be smart to have an evinrude tech to go over the engines.

A1 Outboard · 07-19-2007, 09:59 AM

I don't suggest or make your decisions for you. As with anything used, have it checked out by professionals first, that includes the boat and the motors.

Mark L · 07-19-2007, 03:32 PM

I understand and thanks for your imput. I will make up my own mind, but your imput just reaffirms the need for a marine survey when buying older boats and engines.

fichtion · 07-19-2007, 06:34 PM

Mark:

FWIW, I bought a 98 HS 2450 with 2000 225 Ficht three (3) years ago.

I replaced the lower unit last year. That was the 6th season for the motor so I can't call it a ficht problem. For any 7 year old motor, have a qualified tech check it put for you. I would not let the ficht stigma alone make your decision.

I have been very happy with my motor, quiet, fuel efficient and just put gas in the tank, oil in the tank every 150 gallons of gas or so and go.

Unlike what you will hear on here, I have yet to be stranded by my ficht.

arouund 750 hours or so.

Mark L · 07-19-2007, 11:51 PM

Thanks fichtion. I like the boat and will think about the engines. If I decide to go on it, I will have a Evinrude tech look at it.

Adam_Jimerson · 11-08-2009, 08:45 PM

How do you get water in the fuel out of this engine?

fichtion · 11-20-2009, 02:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Adam_Jimerson

How do you get water in the fuel out of this engine?

Hugh?