JAPAN YAMARINE 3HP outboard motor replace 2 stroke YAMAHA outboard engine

3 HP outboard motor is a small, lightweight, and portable engine designed for small boats, dinghies, canoes, or kayaks. These motors are ideal for calm waters, fishing, or as a backup for trolling. Here’s what you should know about them:

Key Features of a 3 HP Outboard Motor:

1. Power & Performance

• Suitable for boats up to 8-10 feet in length.

• Best for lightweight vessels (inflatable boats, small aluminum boats).

• Speed: Typically 5-8 mph, depending on boat weight and load.

2. Engine Type

• 2-stroke: Lightweight, simple, but requires oil-gas mix (e.g., 50:1).

• 4-stroke: More fuel-efficient, quieter, but slightly heavier.

3. Weight & Portability

• Usually 25-40 lbs, making it easy to carry and store.

• Often manual start (pull cord), though some may have electric start.

4. Fuel Efficiency

• Uses very little fuel (~0.2-0.5 gallons per hour).

• Tank size: Often integrated (1-3 liters) or connected to an external tank.

5. Shaft Length

• Short shaft (15"): Common for small boats.

• Long shaft (20"): Needed for deeper transoms.

Popular 3 HP Outboard Motor Brands

• Tohatsu 3.5 HP (one of the lightest 4-strokes)

• Mercury 3.5 HP (similar to Tohatsu, rebranded)

• Honda BF2.3 (ultra-light 4-stroke)

• Suzuki 2.5 HP (compact & efficient)

• Yamaha 3 HP (reliable but heavier)

Best Uses for a 3 HP Motor

• Fishing in calm lakes or rivers

• Trolling (low speed for bait presentation)

• Backup motor for sailboats or rowboats

• Tender/Dinghy for reaching shore from a larger boat

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:

• Lightweight & portable

• Very fuel-efficient

• Low maintenance

• Affordable (~$1,000-$2,000 new)

❌ Cons:

• Not for rough waters

• Limited speed & power

• May struggle with heavy loads

Should You Buy One?

• Yes, if you need a small, portable motor for light use.

• No, if you have a larger/heavier boat (consider 5-10 HP instead).