Honda BF15, BF20 Owner's Manual

The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
Keep this owner’s manual handy, so you can refer to it at any time. This owner’s manual is considered a permanent part of the outboard motor and should remain with the outboard motor if resold.
The information and specifications included in this publication were in effect at the time of approval for printing. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. reserves the right, however, to discontinue or change specifications or design at any time without notice and without incurring any obligation whatever. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission.

INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on your selection of a Honda outboard motor. We are certain you will be pleased with your purchase of one of the finest outboard motors on the market.
We want to help you get the best results from your new outboard motor and to operate it safely. This manual contains the information on how to do that; please read it carefully.
As you read this manual you will find information preceded by a
symbol. That information is intended to help you avoid damage to your outboard motor, other property, or the environment.
We suggest you read the warranty policy to fully understand its coverage and your responsibilities of ownership. The warranty policy is a separate document that should have been given to you by your dealer.
When your outboard motor needs scheduled maintenance, keep in mind that your Honda marine dealer is specially trained in servicing Honda outboard motors. Your Honda marine dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answer your questions and concerns.
2003 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. All
Rights Reserved
1
INTRODUCTION

A FEW WORDS ABOUT SAFETY

Your safety and the safety of others are very important. And using this outboard motor safely is an important responsibility.
To help you make informed decisions about safety, we have provided operating procedures and other information on labels and in this manual. This information alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others.
Of course, it is not practical or possible to warn you about all the hazards associated with operating or maintaining an outboard motor. You must use your own good judgment.
You will find important safety information in a variety of forms, including:
Safety Labels
Safety Messages
three signal words, DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.
These signal words mean:
Safety Headings
Safety Section
Instructions
This entire book is filled with important saf ety information please read it carefully.
on the outboard motor.
preceded by a safety alert symbol and one of
You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don’t follow instructions.
You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don’t follow instructions.
You CAN be HURT if you don’t follow instructions.
such as
such as
how to use this outboard motor correctly and safely.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.
OUTBOARD MOTOR SAFETY.
2

CONTENTS

CONTROL AND FEATURE
..............................................................CONTROLS . 15
H Type (tiller handle)
..........................................................Throttle Grip . 16
.....................................................Gearshift Lever . 16
................................................Recoil Starter Grip . 17
Electric Starter Button
.........................................Steering Friction Lever . 17
................................................Tilt Lever (G type) . 18
R Type (remote control)
......................................................Ignition Switch . 19
.......................................................Fast Idle Lever . 20
...................................OUTBOARD MOTOR SAFETY . 7
................IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION . 7
................................SAFETY LABEL LOCATIONS . 9
..................................CONTROLS AND FEATURES . 10
................................IDENTIFICATION CODES . 10
....COMPONENT AND CONTROL LOCATIONS . 12
....................Engine Stop Switch and Switch Clip . 15
....................Choke Knob (H type manual choke) . 15
.....................................Throttle Friction Adjuster . 16
.............(models equipped with electric starter) . 17
....................................Power Tilt Switch (T type) . 18
.............Switch Clip and Emergency Stop Switch . 19
..........................Gearshift/Throttle Control Lever . 21
....................................Power Tilt Switch (T type) . 22
...............................Manual Relief Valve (T type) . 22
...........................Tilt Lock Lever (G and T types) . 23
Common Controls
..............................................Engine Cover Latch . 23
.............................Transom Angle Adjusting Rod . 23
.........................Tilt Lever (except G and T types) . 24
.......................................................INSTRUMENTS . 24
............................................................Fuel Gauge . 24
.........................Tachometer (optional equipment) . 24
...........................................................INDICATORS . 25
...............Oil Pressure Indicator (R type) (H type) . 25
.............................Overheating Indicator (R type) . 25
.....................................Cooling System Indicator . 26
................................................OTHER FEATURES . 26
.....................................................Overrev Limiter . 26
Automatic Choke
.............(models equipped with electric starter) . 26
...................................................................Anodes . 26
................................................Portable Fuel Tank . 27
.............................................Fuel Cap Vent Knob . 27
.................................................Fuel Priming Bulb . 27
3
CONTENTS
..........................................................INSTALLATION . 28
.....................................POWER REQUIREMENTS . 28
..................................INSTALLATION POSITION . 28
.......................................................ATTACHMENT . 29
...................................BATTERY CONNECTIONS . 30
................................................BEFORE OPERATION . 33
IS YOUR OUTBOARD MOTOR
................................................READY TO GO . 33
................................................................OPERATION . 35
.......................................BREAK-IN PROCEDURE . 35
...................BOAT TRANSOM REQUIREMENTS . 28
.....................TRANSOM ANGLE ADJUSTMENT . 30
.....ARE YOU READY TO GET UNDER WAY . 33
....................SAFE OPERATING PRECAUTIONS . 35
.....................TRANSOM ANGLE ADJUSTMENT . 36
.......................................PORTABLE FUEL TANK . 37
................................FUEL HOSE CONNECTIONS . 37
.......................................................FUEL PRIMING . 38
......................................STARTING THE ENGINE . 38
............................................H Type (tiller handle) . 38
........................................R Type (remote control) . 41
.....................................EMERGENCY STARTING . 43
.......................................STOPPING THE ENGINE . 46
................................Emergency Engine Stopping . 46
.......................................Normal Engine Stopping . 46
GEARSHIFT AND
..............................THROTTLE OPERATION . 48
............................................H Type (tiller handle) . 48
........................................R Type (remote control) . 49
...............................................................STEERING . 50
............................................H Type (tiller handle) . 50
........................................R Type (remote control) . 50
................................................................CRUISING . 51
........................SHALLOW WATER OPERATION . 54
...............MOORING, BEACHING, LAUNCHING . 57
4
CONTENTS
..............SERVICING YOUR OUTBOARD MOTOR . 59
.....................................MAINTENANCE SAFETY . 60
TOOL KIT AND EMERGENCY STARTER
.....................................................................ROPE . 61
...............................MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE . 62
......................MANUAL RELIEF VALVE (T type) . 64
ENGINE COVER REMOVAL AND
..................................................INSTALLATION . 64
............................................Engine Oil Level Check . 65
....................................................Engine Oil Change . 66
.......................................................Oil Filter Change . 67
..................................Engine Oil Recommendations . 68
................................................Gear Oil Level Check . 68
........................................................Gear Oil Change . 69
.....................................................Lubrication Points . 71
....................................................Spark Plug Service . 72
.............................................................REFUELING . 74
...............................FUEL RECOMMENDATIONS . 75
....................Portable Fuel Tank and Filter Cleaning . 77
.................................Recoil Starter Rope Inspection . 78
..................................................Anode Replacement . 78
..............................................Propeller Replacement . 79
...........THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTENANCE . 59
.........Fuel Pump Filter Inspection and Replacement . 75
....................................................................STORAGE . 80
...................................STORAGE PREPARATION . 80
..........................................Cleaning and Flushing . 80
........................................................................Fuel . 82
.............................................................Engine Oil . 84
...................................STORAGE PRECAUTIONS . 84
...............................REMOVAL FROM STORAGE . 85
........................................................TRANSPORTING . 86
WITH OUTBOARD MOTOR INSTALLED
.............................................................ON BOAT . 86
WITH OUTBOARD MOTOR REMOVED
.......................................................FROM BOAT . 86
5
CONTENTS
TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED
..........................................................PROBLEMS . 87
BATTERY WILL NOT CHARGE AND
OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR LIGHT GOES OFF
...................AND ENGINE SPEED IS LIMITED . 93
OVERHEATING INDICATOR LIGHT COMES
ON AND ENGINE SPEED IS LIMITED
.........................................(remote control type) . 94
..........................................SUBMERGED MOTOR . 95
...............................TECHNICAL INFORMATION . 97
........................................Serial Number locations . 97
Carburetor Modification for High Altitude
...........................................................Operation . 98
..................................................Oxygenated Fuels . 99
...............Emission Control System Information . 100
............................................................Star Label . 102
......................................................Specifications . 104
.............................CONSUMER INFORMATION . 108
.........................................................................INDEX . 109
...............................................WIRING DIAGRAMS . 113
.ELECTRIC STARTER WILL NOT OPERATE . 92
..TECHNICAL AND CONSUMER INFORMATION . 97
This Owner’s Manual is using the following type names when it describes the operations special to a type.
Tiller handle type: Remote control type: Gas-assisted type: Power tilt type:
Check the type of your outboard motor and read this Owner’s Manual thoroughly before operation. Texts with no type indication are the information and/or procedures common to all types.
H type R type G type T type
6

OUTBOARD MOTOR SAFETY

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Honda BF15D/BFP15D/BF20D and BFP20D outboard motors are designed for use with boats that have a suitable manufacturer’s power recommendation. Other uses can result in injury to the operator or damage to the outboard motor and other property.
Most accidents can be prevented if you follow all instructions in this manual and on the outboard motor. The most common hazards are discussed below, along with the best way to protect yourself and others.
Operator Responsibility
It is the operator’s responsibility to provide the necessary safeguards to protect people and property. Know how to stop the engine quickly in case of emergency. Understand the use of all controls.
Stop the engine immediately if anyone falls overboard, and do not run the engine while the boat is near anyone in the water.
Always stop the engine if you must leave the controls for any reason.
Attach the emergency stop switch lanyard securely to the operator.
Always wear a PFD (Personal Flotation Device) while on the boat.
Familiarize yourself with all laws and regulations relating to boating and the use of outboard motors.
Be sure that anyone who operates the outboard motor receives proper instruction.
Be sure the outboard motor is properly mounted on the boat.
Do not remove the engine cover while the engine is running.
7
OUTBOARD MOTOR SAFETY
Carbon Monoxide HazardRefuel With Care
Gasoline is extremely flammable, and gasoline vapor can explode. Refuel outdoors, in a well­ventilated area, with the engine stopped. Never smoke near gasoline, and keep other flames and sparks away.
Remove any portable fuel tank from the boat for refueling. Keep the portable fuel tank away from the battery or other potential spark sources.
Refuel carefully to avoid spilling fuel. Avoid overfilling the fuel tank.
After refueling, tighten the filler cap securely. If any fuel is spilled, make sure the area is dry before starting the engine.
Exhaust gas contains poisonous carbon monoxide. Avoid inhalation of exhaust gas. Never run the engine in a closed garage or confined area.
8

SAFETY LABEL LOCATIONS

OUTBOARD MOTOR SAFETY
The labels shown here contain important safety information. Please read them carefully. These labels are considered permanent parts of your outboard motor. If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact an authorized Honda Marine servicing dealer for a replacement.
9

CONTROLS AND FEATURES

CONTROL AND FEATURE IDENTIFICATION CODES
Model
Type
Shaft Length Tiller Handle Remote Control Electric Starter Gas-assisted Tilt Power Tilt
Battery Charging DC Receptacle Tachometer
SHA
S
H
LHA
L
H
XHA
X H
SHSA
S H
S
LHSA
L
H
S
SHGA
LHGA
XHGA
LRA
LGA
S
L
L
H R S
G
***
L
H
H
S
S
G
G
LHTA
X
L
H
H
S
S
G
T
SRTA
S
R
S
T
SHTA
L H
S
T
Refer to this chart for an explanation of the Type Codes used in this manual to identify control and feature applications.
BF15D/BFP15D are provided with the following types according to the shaft length, control system, tilt system, and start system.
Control System H: Tiller Handle Control R: Remote Control Tilt system
Gas-assisted Tilt (with gas damper
G:
(Example)
LHSA
assist function) Power Tilt (with hydraulic assist
T:
function)
Shaft Length S: Short Shaft L: Long Shaft X: Extra Long Shaft
Optional Equipment
:
Standard Equipment
:
BFP15DBF15D
LRTA
L
R S
T
XHTA
X H
S
T
P
LRTA
Destination A=United States S=Electric Starter G=Gas-assisted Tilt T=Power Tilt R=Remote Control H=Tiller Handle S=Short Shaft L=Long Shaft X=Extra Long Shaft
XRTA
L
X
R
R
S
S
T
T
P
PPower Thrust Propeller
10
Model
BF20D
BFP20D
Type
Shaft Length Tiller Handle Remote Control Electric Starter Gas-assisted Tilt Power Tilt Power Thrust Propeller Battery Charging DC Receptacle Tachometer
SHA
S
H
LHA
L
H
SHSA
S H
S
LHSA
L H
S
XHSA
X H
S
SHTA
SRA
LRA
S
L
R
R S
S
** ***
LGA
L H
G
SHGA
S H
S G
X
L
H
H
S
S
G
G
XHGA
LHGA
LHTA
S
L
H
H
S
S
T
T
Refer to this chart for an explanation of the Type Codes used in this manual to identify control and feature applications.
BF20D/BFP20D are provided with the following types according to the shaft length, control system, tilt system, and start system.
Control System H: Tiller Handle Control R: Remote Control Tilt system
Gas-assisted Tilt (with gas damper
G:
(Example)
LHSA
assist function) Power Tilt (with hydraulic assist
T:
function)
Shaft Length S: Short Shaft L: Long Shaft X: Extra Long Shaft
Optional Equipment
:
Standard Equipment
:
XHTA
SRTA
LRTA
X
S
H
R
S
S
T
T
Destination A=United States S=Electric Starter G=Gas-assisted Tilt T=Power Tilt R=Remote Control H=Tiller Handle S=Short Shaft L=Long Shaft X=Extra Long Shaft
LRTA
L
L
R
R
S
S
T
T
P
11
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
COMPONENT AND CONTROL LOCATIONS H Type (tiller handle)
RECOIL STARTER GRIP
OIL FILLER CAP
OIL LEVEL DIPSTICK
COOLING SYSTEM INDICATOR
ENGINE OIL DRAIN SCREW
ANODES
SHIFT LEVER
TILLER HANDLE
TILT LEVER (except G and T types)
MANUAL RELIEF VALUE (T type only)
TILT LEVER (G type only)
COOLING WATER INTAKE PORT
STERN BRACKET
CLAMP SCREW
ADJUSTING ROD
GEAR OIL LEVEL PLUG
GEAR OIL DRAIN PLUG
ELECTRIC STARTER BUTTON (Electric starter type only)
ENGINE COVER
PROPELLER
CHOKE KNOB (Equipped type only)
FUEL HOSE CONNECTOR
FLUSH PORT HOLE (Inside engine cover)
STEERING FRICTION LEVER
ANTIVENTILATION PLATE
EXHAUST PORT
OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR LIGHT
SWITCH CLIP
POWER TILT SWITCH (T type only)
ENGINE STOP SWITCH
THROTTLE FRICTION ADJUSTER
THROTTLE GRIP
LANYARD
12
R Type (remote control)
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
OIL FILLER CAP
OIL LEVEL DIPSTICK
COOLING SYSTEM INDICATOR
ENGINE OIL DRAIN SCREW
RECOIL STARTER GRIP
ENGINE COVER
STERN BRACKET
TILT LEVER (except T type)
CLAMP SCREW
MANUAL RELIEF VALVE (T type only)
COOLING WATER INTAKE PORT
ADJUSTING ROD
GEAR OIL LEVEL PLUG
FLUSH PORT HOLE (Inside engine cover)
GEAR OIL DRAIN PLUG
GEARSHIFT/THROTTLE CONTROL LEVER
POWER TILT SWITCH (T type only)
SPARE SWITCH CLIP
REMOTE CONTROL FRICTION ADJUSTER
ANODES
ANTIVENTILATION PLATE
EXHAUST PORT
PROPELLER
LANYARD
SWITCH CLIP
NEUTRAL RELEASE LEVER
OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR LIGHT
OVERHEATING INDICATOR LIGHT
FAST IDLE LEVER
BUZZER (inside box)
IGNITION SWITCH
EMERGENCY STOP SWITCH
13
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
FUEL GAUGE VENT KNOB
TACHOMETER
(optional equipment)
(R type)
PRIMING BULB
FUEL TANK
FUEL CAP
FUEL HOSE
FUEL HOSE CONNECTOR (FEMALE)
14
CONTROLS AND FEATURES

CONTROLS

H Type (tiller handle)
Engine Stop Switch and Switch Clip
ENGINE STOP SWITCH
LANYARD
SWITCH CLIP
The engine stop switch has controls for normal engine stopping and emergency engine stopping.
The switch clip must be inserted in the engine stop switch in order for the engine to start and run. The lanyard should be attached to the operator’s PFD (Personal Flotation Device) or worn around the wrist as shown.
When used as described, the engine stop switch and lanyard system stops the engine if the operator falls away from the controls.
A spare switch clip is supplied with the tool kit.
Choke Knob (H type manual choke)
CHOKE KNOB
OOPPEENN
CCLLOOSSEEDD
The choke knob opens and closes the choke valves in the carburetors.
The CLOSED position enriches the fuel mixture for starting a cold engine.
The OPEN position provides the correct fuel mixture for operation after starting, and for restarting a warm engine.
LANYARD
15
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
Throttle Grip Gearshif t LeverThrottle Friction Adjuster
THROTTLE INDEX MARK
THROTTLE GRIP
The throttle grip controls engine speed.
An index mark on the tiller arm shows throttle position and is helpf ul for setting the throttle correctly when starting (p. ).
39
FIX
THROTTLE FRICTION ADJUSTER
RELEASE
THROTTLE GRIP
The throttle friction adjuster adjusts resistance to throttle grip rotation.
Turn the adjuster clockwise to increase friction for holding a throttle setting while cruising.
Turn the adjuster counterclockwise to decrease friction for easy throttle grip rotation.
R (reverse)
N (neutral)
F(forward)
The gearshift lever is used to select F (forward), N (neutral), or R (reverse) gears.
The engine can be started with the gearshift lever in the N (neutral) position only.
If the gearshift lever is in the F (forward) or R (reverse) position, the recoil starter will not operate, and the electric starter button (applicable models) will not operate the starter motor.
16
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
Recoil Starter Grip Electric Starter Button (models
equipped with electric starter)
STARTER GRIP
SWITCH
Pull the starter grip to operate the recoil starter for starting the engine manually.
The engine will not start unless the gearshift lever (p. ) is in the N
16 16 (neutral) position, and the clip is in the engine stop switch or the emergency stop switch.
CLIP
Press the starter button to operate the electric starter for starting the engine.
The electric starter button can be used to start the engine only when the gearshift lever (p. ) is in the N (neutral) position, and the clip is in the engine stop switch.
ELECTRIC STARTER BUTTON
Steering Friction Lever
LLOOCCKK
STEERING FRICTION LEVER
The steering friction lever adjusts steering resistance.
Less friction allows the outboard motor to turn more easily. More friction helps to hold steady course while cruising or to prevent the outboard motor from swinging while trailering the boat.
FFRREEEE
17
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
Power Tilt Switch (T type) Tilt Lever (G type)
(gas-assisted tilt type)
Press UP to tilt the motor up.
Press DN to tilt the motor down.
POWER TILT SWITCH
The power tilt switch is a rocker switch with UP and DN (down) positions for changing the angle of the outboard motor.
You can use the power tilt switch anytime.
Trim the outboard motor to obtain the best performance and stability (p. ).
52
Tilt the outboard motor for shallow water operation, beaching, launching, or mooring.
TTIILLTT
RRUUNN ((LLOOCCKK))
TILT LEVER
Moving the tilt lever to the TILT position allows the outboard motor to be tilted and moving the tilt lever to the RUN (LOCK) position locks the outboard motor in the desired position. Use the tilt lever to temporarily tilt the outboard motor when the boat is operating in shallow water, or mooring in shallow water. The tilt lever must be in the RUN (LOCK) position before operating the outboard motor or the motor could tilt up when operating in reverse.
18
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
R Type (remote control)
For panel-mount or top-mount remote control information, refer to the instructions provided with the remote control equipment.
Ignition Switch (side-mount type)
OONN
OOFFFF
IGNITION SWITCH
EMERGENCY STOP SWITCH
SWITCH CLIP
The ignition switch controls the ignition system and starter motor.
SSTTAARRTT
Turning the ignition switch key to the START position operates the starter motor. The key automatically returns to the ON position when released from the START position.
The ignition switch can be used to operate the starter motor only when the gearshift lever (p. ) is in the N
16 (neutral) position, and the switch clip is in the emergency stop switch.
Turning the ignition switch to the OFF position stops the engine.
Switch Clip and Emergency Stop Switch (side-mount type)
EMERGENCY STOP SWITCH
LANYARD
SWITCH CLIP
LANYARD
SWITCH CLIP
19
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
The switch clip must be inserted in the emergency stop switch in order for the engine to start and run. The lanyard must be attached to the operator’s PFD (Personal Flotation Device) or worn around the wrist as shown.
When used as described, the emergency stop switch and lanyard system stops the engine if the operator falls away from the controls.
A spare switch clip is stored in a slot in the control housing.
SPARE SWITCH CLIP
Fast Idle Lever
(side-mount type)
MAXIMUM FAST IDLE
The fast idle lever is used to set idle speed during warm-up.
The lever will not move unless the gearshift/throttle control lever is in the N (neutral) position. Conversely, the gearshift/throttle control lever will not move unless the fast idle lever is in the lowest position.
LOWEST POSITION
FAST IDLE LEVER
Leave the fast idle lever in the lowest position to provide a rich f uel mixture for starting a cold engine.
Lift the fast idle lever to warm up a cold engine after starting and to start a warm engine.
20
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
Gearshift/Throttle Control Lever (side-mount type)
GEARSHIFT/THROTTLE CONTROL LEVER
NEUTRAL RELEASE LEVER
The control lever automatically locks itself in the N (neutral) position. To move the lever out of the N (neutral) position, you must squeeze the neutral release lever on the underside of the lever handle.
GEARSHIFT/THROTTLE CONTROL LEVER
N (neutral)
EENNGGIINNEE SSPPEEEEDD
HIGH
The gearshift/throttle control lever controls engine speed and selects F (forward), N (neutral), or R (reverse) gears.
Moving the control lever 30° from N (neutral) selects the gear, and further movement increases engine speed.
R (reverse)F(forward)
EENNGGIINNEE SSPPEEEEDD
HIGH
A friction adjuster near the base of the control lever adjusts the operating resistance of the control lever (p. ).
49
Less friction allows easier control lever movement. More friction helps to hold a steady throttle setting while cruising.
21
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
Power Tilt Switch (T type) Manual Relief Valve (T type) (side-mount type)
CONTROL LEVER
Press UP to tilt the motor up.
The power tilt switch is located on the control lever. It is a rocker switch with UP and DN (down) positions for changing the angle of the outboard motor.
RIGHT STERN BRACKET
MANUAL (Valve closed to fix)
You can use the power tilt switch anytime the ignition switch is ON, whether the boat is underway or
Press DN to tilt the motor down.
stopped.
Trim the outboard motor to obtain
POWER (Valve open to release)
the best performance and stability
MANUAL RELIEF VALVE
:
Do not turn this screw. If this screw is turned hydraulic oil will bleed out of the power tilt
POWER TILT SWITCH
(p. ).51
Tilt the outboard motor for shallow water operation, beaching, launching, or mooring.
system. Should this happen it will be necessary to consult your authorized Honda Marine dealer and have the system refilled.
The outboard motor can be tilted manually after opening the manual relief valve. This allows the outboard motor to be tilted when no battery is connected.
22
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
Tilt Lock Lever (G and T types)
FFRREEEE
TTIILLTT LLOOCCKK LLEEVVEERR
LLOOCCKK
The tilt lock lever is used to support the outboard motor in the fully-raised position.
When the boat is to be moored for a long time, tilt the outboard motor as far as it will go. Then move the tilt lock lever to the LOCK position, and gently lower the outboard motor until the lever contacts the stern bracket.
Common Controls
Engine Cover Latch
EENNGGIINNEE CCOOVVEERR LLAATTCCHH
The engine cover latch fastens the engine cover to the outboard motor.
Transom Angle Adjusting Rod
The transom angle adjusting rod limits the tilt angle of the outboard motor when fully lowered.
(except G and T types)
ADJUSTING ROD
(G and T types)
ADJUSTING ROD
Proper adjustment prevents the outboard motor from being trimmed in too far (p. ).
51
23
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
Tilt Lever (except G and T types)
TILT LEVER
TTIILLTT
RRUUNN ((LLOOCCKK))
The tilt lever enables the outboard motor to be raised for shallow water operation, beaching, launching, or mooring.
To tilt, move the lever to the TILT position, then raise the outboard motor until the tilt mechanism engages at 30°, 45°, 71° or 72° (p. ).
54
71° : Tiller handle S types. 72° : Tiller handle L, X types and
Remote control types.

INSTRUMENTS

Fuel Gauge
FUEL GAUGE
A fuel gauge is built into the cap of the portable fuel tank.
Tachometer (optional equipment) (R Type)
TACHOMETER
The tachometer shows engine speed in revolutions per minute.
Refer to the tachometer when using the throttle and power tilt controls to achieve the best performance from the boat.
24
CONTROLS AND FEATURES

INDICATORS

Oil Pressure Indicator (R type)
(GREEN)
(H type)
OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR LIGHT
When the green light is lit, oil pressure is OK.
If oil pressure becomes low, the green light will go off, and the engine protection system will limit engine speed.
Remote controls are also equipped with a buzzer that sounds when the green light goes off. The buzzing sound stops below an engine speed of 1,400 rpm.
Low oil pressure indicates that the engine oil level is low, or that there is a problem with the engine lubrication system.
Overheating Indicator (R type)
(RED)
If the engine overheats, the red light will come on, and the engine protection system will limit engine speed.
Remote controls are also equipped with a buzzer that sounds when the red light comes on.
Engine overheating may be the result of clogged water intakes.
25
CONTROLS AND FEATURES

Cooling System Indicator OTHER FEATURES

Overrev Limiter
The engine is equipped with an overrev limiter to prevent the possibility of mechanical damage from excessive engine speed.
The overrev limiter may be activated during operation, limiting engine speed, if the outboard motor is tilted excessively, or when propeller ventilation occurs during a sharp turn.
COOLING SYSTEM INDICATOR
Water should flow from the cooling system indicator while the engine is running. This shows that water is circulating through the cooling system.
If water stops flowing while the engine is running, that indicates a cooling system problem, such as clogged water intakes, which will cause engine overheating.
If the overrev limiter is activated, check the trim angle of the outboard motor.
Automatic Choke (models equipped with electric starter)
The engine is equipped with an automatic choke so that the choke system operation is not needed when starting the engine.
Anodes
ANODE (G and T types only)
ANODES (each side)
The anodes are made of a sacrificial material that helps to protect the outboard motor from corrosion.
There are two anodes on the gear case, one on the stern bracket.
26
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
Portable Fuel Tank Fuel Cap Vent Knob Fuel Priming Bulb
The portable fuel tank has a capacity of US gal ( ) and has a fuel
123.2
gauge built into the cap.
VENT KNOB
CLOSE
OOPPEENN
The cap is provided with a vent knob to seal the portable fuel tank for carrying it to and from the boat. Open the vent knob 2 or 3 turns before starting the engine (p. ).
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OUTLET END (MOTOR)
PRIMING BULB
INLET END (TANK)
A priming bulb is built into the fuel hose that connects the fuel tank to the outboard motor.
Before starting the engine, squeeze the priming bulb until it feels firm. This will ensure that fuel is supplied to the engine (p. ).
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27

INSTALLATION

Correct and secure installation is essential for safe boating and good performance. Follow the installation instructions provided in this manual.

POWER REQUIREMENTS

Before installation, check to be sure that the outboard motor does not exceed the recommended maximum horsepower for the boat on which it is to be installed. Refer to the boat’s certification plate for recommended maximum horsepower. If the certification plate information is not available, contact the boat dealer or manufacturer.
For most applications, the outboard motor should have a horsepower rating which provides 80% of the maximum recommended horsepower for the boat.

BOAT TRANSOM REQUIREMENTS

Honda BF15D/BFP15D/BF20D and BFP20D outboard motors can be installed on a boat transom having a thickness range of 1.3 2.2 inches
(35 57 mm).

INSTALLATION POSITION

CENTER LINE
Install the outboard motor on the center of the boat transom.
The antiventilation plate of the outboard motor should be 0 2.0
inches below the bottom of the boat.
TTRRAANNSSOOMM HHEEIIGGHHTT
Type:
S: L:
X:
Transom Height
17.0 in (433 mm)
22.2 in (563 mm)
27.7 in (703 mm)
050mm
(0 2.0 in)
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