Review: Yamaha 2017 F130 Four-Stroke Marine Outboard
Weighing in at a class-leading 172kg, the F130A trims the fat by utilising a light and compact power trim & tilt unit and the latest light-weight materials throughout the engine and the cowl design.
REVIEW: Yamaha F130LA
F130 Four Stroke Highlights:
- 172kg - Best power-to-weight in its class
- 35amp high-output alternator
- Compatibility to Yamaha Command Link digital gauges
- Compatibility with Yamaha Y-COP
The Boat
The Stessco Gulf Runner 550 has a deadrise of 15 degrees and when it comes to hole-shot its planes quick and effortlessly and even gives you a bit of push-back into the seat. Gentle acceleration will get you onto the plane at a low speed of 9 knots with the motor fully trimmed in.
In the mid-range, the ideal cruise speed is around 3500 rpm at a speed of 21.33 knots which is a pretty good cruise speed for any boat, especially in chop. Yet again, the economy is impressive and at 21 knots the 550 uses a moderate 15Lph of fuel, which is exceptionally good. As for the range at this speed, well you would be looking at around 150 nautical miles on 110L of fuel – and that’s quite a distance or at least a fair few local fishing trips in the bay or the dam.
Yamaha F130 Engine Specs
- Engine Type four stroke, 16 valve DOHC in-line four cylinder
- Displacement 1832 cc
- Bore x Stroke 81.0 x 88.9 mm
- Recommended Max RPM 5300-6300
- Alternator Output 12V - 35A with rectifier regulator
- Gear Ratio 2.15: 1
- Weight F130LA (20.3 in): 172 kg, F130XA (25.3 in): 178 kg
Sea trials
Stessco Gulf Runner 550 fitted with Yamaha F130LA and Stainless Steel SST 13.125x18in propeller. Two persons and 110 litre of fuel on board.
1000rpm reaches a speed of 4.08kt with fuel burn of 2.35L/hr and economy of 11.73nm/L for a range of 78.85nm
3500rpm reaches a cruising speed of 21.33kt with fuel burn of 15L/hr and economy of 1.42nm/L for a range of 64.63nm
5900rpm (WOT) reaches a maximum speed of 39.36kt with fuel burn of 46.25L/hr and economy of 0.85nm/L for a range of 38.69nm
*Data supplied by Yamaha, verified by author. Range calculated leaving 10% in reserve.