Nissan outboards, while not as ubiquitous as Yamaha or Mercury, hold a unique place in boating history. For decades, they offered a reputation for reliability and affordability. But are they still a viable option today, especially considering Nissan no longer manufactures them? The answer is complex, depending on what you're looking for in an outboard and what you're willing to put up with. Understanding their strengths and weaknesses, along with common issues, is key to making an informed decision.
The Nissan Outboard Legacy: A Brief History
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's rewind a bit. Nissan Marine, a division of the automotive giant, produced outboards from the 1960s until the late 2000s. They were known for their simplicity and robust engineering, often favored by commercial fishermen and those seeking a no-frills, dependable engine. In 2008, Nissan sold its outboard division to Tohatsu, a Japanese manufacturer with a long history of building reliable two-stroke engines. While Tohatsu continued to produce some models that were virtually identical to the older Nissans, the Nissan Marine brand disappeared.
So, why are we even talking about them? Because there are still plenty of Nissan outboards out there, humming away on boats around the world. And, surprisingly, many parts are still available, either directly from Tohatsu (often re-branded) or through aftermarket suppliers.
The Good Stuff: What Makes Nissan Outboards Appealing?
Despite their age, Nissan outboards still have a lot going for them:
- Reliability: This is arguably their biggest selling point. Nissan engines, especially the older two-stroke models, were built to last. They weren't packed with fancy electronics or complex systems that could fail. Their simple design meant fewer things to go wrong.
- Affordability: On the used market, Nissan outboards often come at a lower price point than comparable models from other brands. This can be a significant advantage for budget-conscious boaters.
- Ease of Maintenance: Their simplicity also translates to easier maintenance. Most repairs can be handled by a mechanically inclined individual with basic tools and a service manual.
- Availability of Parts: While Nissan Marine is gone, many parts are still readily available. Tohatsu continues to manufacture many of the same components, and a thriving aftermarket exists for older models.
- Proven Track Record: Decades of use have proven the durability and reliability of these engines. There's a wealth of knowledge and experience available online and within the boating community.
The Not-So-Good Stuff: Potential Drawbacks to Consider
Of course, no engine is perfect, and Nissan outboards have their downsides:
- Age: The biggest factor is simply age. Even the newest Nissan outboards are over a decade old. This means wear and tear on components, potential corrosion, and the increased likelihood of needing repairs.
- Two-Stroke Engines (Mostly): The vast majority of Nissan outboards were two-stroke engines. While reliable, two-strokes are generally less fuel-efficient and produce more emissions than modern four-stroke engines. This can be a concern for environmental reasons and operating costs.
- Parts Availability (Can Be Tricky): While many parts are available, finding specific components for older or less common models can be challenging. Sourcing parts might require patience and research.
- Technology: Nissan outboards lack the advanced features found in modern engines, such as electronic fuel injection (EFI) or sophisticated diagnostic systems.
- Resale Value: Because of their age and the brand's discontinuation, Nissan outboards generally have lower resale value compared to newer models.
Common Issues Breakdown: What to Watch Out For
Now, let's get down to the specifics. Here's a breakdown of common problems you might encounter with Nissan outboards:
1. Carburetor Problems (Applies to Most Models):
- Symptoms: Hard starting, rough idling, stalling, poor performance at high speeds.
- Causes: Clogged jets, dirty fuel, deteriorated fuel lines, air leaks.
- Solutions: Clean or rebuild the carburetor, replace fuel lines, check for air leaks around the intake manifold. Proper fuel storage and the use of fuel stabilizers are crucial for preventing carburetor issues.
2. Ignition System Issues (Applies to Most Models):
- Symptoms: No spark, weak spark, misfires, difficulty starting.
- Causes: Faulty spark plugs, corroded ignition coils, damaged wiring, a failing CDI unit (Capacitor Discharge Ignition).
- Solutions: Replace spark plugs, test ignition coils, inspect wiring for damage, replace the CDI unit. Regularly inspect and clean electrical connections to prevent corrosion.
3. Cooling System Problems (Applies to All Models):
- Symptoms: Overheating, lack of water flow from the telltale (pee hole).
- Causes: Clogged water pump impeller, blocked water passages, corroded thermostat.
- Solutions: Replace the water pump impeller, flush the cooling system, replace the thermostat. Always check the telltale for a strong stream of water before running the engine for extended periods.
4. Fuel System Problems (Applies to All Models):
- Symptoms: Fuel leaks, poor fuel delivery, engine stalling.
- Causes: Cracked fuel lines, a faulty fuel pump, a clogged fuel filter.
- Solutions: Replace fuel lines, rebuild or replace the fuel pump, replace the fuel filter. Use fresh, high-quality fuel and regularly inspect fuel system components.
5. Lower Unit Issues (Applies to All Models):
- Symptoms: Gear slippage, unusual noises, water in the gear oil.
- Causes: Worn gears, damaged seals, low gear oil.
- Solutions: Replace worn gears, replace seals, refill with gear oil. Change the gear oil annually and inspect it for signs of water contamination.
6. Corrosion (Applies to All Models, Especially in Saltwater):
- Symptoms: Rust, pitting, seized components.
- Causes: Exposure to saltwater, lack of proper maintenance.
- Solutions: Clean and flush the engine regularly with fresh water, apply anti-corrosion coatings, replace corroded parts. Regularly inspect the engine for signs of corrosion and address them promptly.
7. Starting Problems (Applies to All Models):
- Symptoms: Engine cranks but doesn't start, hard to start, slow cranking.
- Causes: Low battery voltage, faulty starter motor, corroded electrical connections, carburetor issues (as mentioned above), ignition issues (as mentioned above).
- Solutions: Charge or replace the battery, repair or replace the starter motor, clean electrical connections, address carburetor or ignition issues. Ensure the battery is properly maintained and charged.
Specific Model Considerations:
While the above issues are common across most Nissan outboard models, some models are known for specific quirks:
- Nissan NS5B: A popular small outboard, known for its simplicity. Common issues include carburetor problems and ignition coil failures.
- Nissan NS9.8B: Another popular small outboard. Watch out for cooling system issues and carburetor problems.
- Nissan NS18E: A slightly larger outboard. Common issues include fuel pump failures and ignition system problems.
Finding Parts and Service Information
One of the biggest concerns with owning a discontinued brand is finding parts and service information. Here are some resources:
- Tohatsu Dealers: Since Tohatsu took over Nissan Marine, many Tohatsu dealers can still provide parts and service for Nissan outboards.
- Online Retailers: Numerous online retailers specialize in outboard parts, including aftermarket and OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) components.
- Online Forums and Communities: Boating forums and online communities are invaluable resources for finding information, troubleshooting problems, and connecting with other Nissan outboard owners.
- Service Manuals: Search online for downloadable service manuals for your specific Nissan outboard model. These manuals provide detailed instructions for maintenance and repair.
Is a Nissan Outboard Right For You?
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy a Nissan outboard depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you're looking for a reliable, affordable, and easy-to-maintain engine and you're comfortable with the potential challenges of owning an older outboard, a Nissan might be a good option. However, if you prioritize fuel efficiency, advanced technology, and a hassle-free ownership experience, you might be better off with a newer engine from a currently supported brand.
Before buying a used Nissan outboard, thoroughly inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. If possible, have a qualified mechanic inspect the engine before you commit to the purchase. Ask about the engine's history and maintenance records.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are Nissan outboards reliable? Older Nissan outboards, particularly the two-stroke models, have a reputation for being very reliable due to their simple design. However, their age means they require regular maintenance.
- Are parts readily available for Nissan outboards? Yes, many parts are still available, either from Tohatsu (often re-branded) or through aftermarket suppliers. Finding parts for older or less common models can be more challenging.
- Are Nissan outboards fuel-efficient? Most Nissan outboards are two-stroke engines, which are generally less fuel-efficient than modern four-stroke engines.
- Can I convert a Nissan two-stroke outboard to four-stroke? No, converting a two-stroke engine to a four-stroke engine is not feasible. It would require a complete engine redesign.
- Where can I find a service manual for my Nissan outboard? Search online using the specific model number of your outboard. Many downloadable service manuals are available.
Conclusion
Nissan outboards offer a compelling combination of reliability and affordability, especially on the used market. While their age and the brand's discontinuation pose some challenges, their simple design and the continued availability of parts make them a viable option for budget-conscious boaters. Before making a purchase, thoroughly inspect the engine and consider your individual needs and priorities.