R-23's Yamaha F200 Variable Trolling Feature

[baz]

Subject: R-23's Yamaha F200 Variable Trolling Feature

My understanding is that the new F200 Yamaha outboard provides a "Variable Trolling Feature". Do I have this correct ?

RT offers the 9.9HP Yamaha kicker motor in tandem with the F200.

When first reviewing the R-23 outboard model I liked the idea of having the kicker motor as a backup in the event the F200 failed unexpectedly as well as providing trolling speeds.

So I'm now wondering if one were to abandon the 9.9HP kicker motor option in lieu of using the F200's Variable Trolling feature but losing the failsafe 2nd engine benefit and saving a bunch of brass is a sensible thing to do ?

The Variable Trolling feature does allow speeds to be set in 50 rpm increments from 650 to 900.

 

[baz]

Hmmmm..... just found this on http://yamahaoutboards.com/owner-resources/FAQ/operation

What engine models can take advantage of the variable trolling feature that provides precise and consistent trolling speeds on Command Link® tachometers or the Multifunction Tiller Handle?

The variable trolling feature allows you to adjust your RPM in 50-rpm increments through a specific RPM range. Review the models below that support this exciting new feature: • F50, T50, F60 and T60 models manufactured 04/2004 or newer range between 620~900 rpms • F75 & F90 models manufactured 04/2004 or newer have range of 550~1000 rpms • All F300 and F350 have a range of 600~1000 rpms • The new EFI F40 ranges from 650~900 rpms • The new Digital Electronic Controlled F250 has a range of 600~1000 rpms

So it seems the F200 does not have the Variable Trolling feature. 🙁

 

[baz]

After more reading and research I'm still unclear as to whether the R-23's Yamaha 200HP outboard has the Variable Trolling Feature installed! Anyone know for sure ?

 

[sleepyboat]

Barry,
I posted a picture of the Command Link gauge. Note on the top, troll. You enter the menu and scroll with the arrows to get there and then to adjust the speed you desire.
John
click on sleepyboat to get to my album

 

[baz]

sleepyboat: Thanks for confirming. Have you employed the Troll feature, and if so how well did it work for you ? Does Yamaha 200HP motor's Troll feature mean that there's really no need for the 9.9HP kicker motor for trolling ?

 

[Scuffy]

For me at least; I'm thinking I would rather put trolling hours on a 10hp $3000.00 engine. As opposed to putting trolling hours on a 200 hp 13,000 + dollar engine. Service intervals are based on hours. I'm thinking regular service would end up being cheaper on the 3000.00 engine.

 

[baz]

For me at least; I'm thinking I would rather put trolling hours on a 10hp $3000.00 engine. As opposed to putting trolling hours on a 200 hp 13,000 + dollar engine. Service intervals are based on hours. I'm thinking regular service would end up being cheaper on the 3000.00 engine.

Hmmmm.... but the 9.9 Yamaha is a $6000 option. 😱 So would take quite a few years to break even, right ?

Then of course there's the added weight of the 9.9 Yamaha which will affect fuel burn. 😱 Adding weight to the stern is very detrimental for fuel burn.

 

[sleepyboat]

Barry,
I did use it during the first ten hours of break in so that I didn’t have to fuss with the throttle. It does work as designed. I do not fish so don’t much care about trolling but there are some rivers I do enjoy traveling at headway speed so it may get some use. I do not see the need for an extra outboard with my outboard as I felt the same way with my 27. If I have an engine failure, I have Sea Tow, beer, Cheez-It’s and patients.

There are many center consoles out there that are built for fishing with single and twin, high output engines and when they get to the fishing area they troll and don’t seem to have an issue. If people are going to do a lot of fishing, maybe the Ranger Tug isn’t a wise choice.

Diesel or gas engine, if you keep up with the maintenance you should have hours of cruising or trolling.
John

 

[baz]

Thank you John. That all sounds good info and a sensible approach especially if fishing is not a primary occupation. Thanks. 🙂