Suzuki Marine has revamped two of its most powerful outboards for 2023, incorporating integrated steering and a new lower gear case for these models.
The DF350AMD and DF300BMD V6 four-stroke outboards, which feature contra-rotating twin propellers, are the first Suzuki offerings to include integrated steering. This innovation simplifies rigging for both single and dual engine setups, addressing clearance issues linked to traditional external steering cylinders.
Additionally, Suzuki introduced a fresh lower gear case for the DF350AMD and DF300BMD. This redesign was intended to bolster durability, enhance peak performance, and boost fuel economy. The new gear case has a smaller external surface area, allowing the lower unit to move through water more effortlessly. According to Suzuki, this streamlined design reduces necessary oil from 3.2 liters to 2.8 liters.
“By slightly reducing the size of the gear case, we’re achieving an increase of 1 to 2 mph in speed,” stated Brandon Cerka, marketing manager for Suzuki Marine, during the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. “This represents a notable enhancement in performance.”
The steering upgrades are anticipated to pave the way for further advancements at the helm, including joystick steering and improved integration.
Suzuki plans to continue manufacturing the DF300B and DF350A outboards in their existing formats. With the new lower gear case, repowers should maintain compatibility with the original lower drive units.
“While the upper components remain unchanged, it’s not ideal to mix 22 (inch) gear cases with 23 (inch) ones,” Cerka remarked. “For optimal performance, we aim to have matching gear cases on the bottom.”
At the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, Suzuki also unveiled the new DF75 outboard for 2023, retiring the existing 70-hp model. According to Cerka, this in-line four-cylinder outboard features a 16-valve Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) architecture, a two-stage gear reduction system, and a compact driveshaft design.
The DF75 provides boaters with numerous technological features commonly found in larger Suzuki outboards, including Suzuki Lean Burn Technology, multi-point sequential electronic fuel injection, a cool air intake system, and a water-cooled fuel rail.
The Suzuki DF75 is available with aesthetic options in either black or white paint finishes, allowing it to complement various vessels. Suzuki offers the DF75 with Long (20”) and Extra Long (25”) shaft lengths. The motor can also be adapted to tiller steering if needed.
Cerka mentioned that consumer and OEM feedback influenced the DF75’s design, which is based on its 90-hp counterpart.
“Historically, it was advised not to max out your boat’s horsepower; rather, you should choose what’s suitable for it,” Cerka explained. “Now, there’s a trend toward maximizing horsepower, and manufacturers are starting with 75 horsepower as a standard.”
Suzuki’s outboard range extends from 2.5 horsepower to 350 hp.
www.suzukimarine.com.