Honda Introduces 350-hp V8 Outboard
Honda Marine announced late last week the introduction of a new 350-hp outboard, its largest engine and first V-8. Honda will debut the BF350 at the International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition & Conference, scheduled for Oct. 3-5 in Tampa, Fla.
The fuel-injected outboard is built on a 32-valve V-8 powerhead that displaces 302 cubic inches/4,952 cc. It has a bore and stroke of 3.5 by 3.9 inches and a compression ratio of 10-to-1. It is also incorporating some technology that it forged with its V6 engines years ago, including BLAST, a system that gives the engine considerably more torque and acceleration in the low RPM range, and VTEC -- Honda's Variable Valve Timing & Lift Electronic Control.
17% More Fuel Efficient at Best Cruise
Honda says that its new engine:
"Optimizes fuel efficiency, extends range and reduces operating costs, outperforming the competition’s fuel efficiency at cruise by 17% and cost by 20%."
Honda has added an Oxygen Sensor, which monitors the air/fuel ratio and automatically adjusts it as needed, creating what it calls "lean burn." Lean burn control automatically adjusts the air/fuel mixture according to speed and load, and programmed fuel injection delivers precise amounts of fuel and air to each cylinder.
“The development and introduction of the all-new BF350 underscores the Honda Marine mission to become the marine mobility leader by capitalizing on the technology of Honda worldwide, further developing strategic partnerships and ensuring amazing boating experiences for our target markets,” Kevin Mills, assistant vice president, Honda Power Sports & Products,” said in a statement.
The BF350 runs on 86 octane gasoline, and the company adapted its VTEC system to help the engine have a broader, flatter torque curve through its operating range.
FULLY BALANCED 30° OFFSET CRANKSHAFT
According to Honda, every BF350 crankshaft is built using the same crankshaft alloy and tested to the same strength specifications as Acura’s famed NSX high-performance sports supercar. The fully balanced, 30° offset crankshaft eliminates the need for counter balancing; it seamlessly integrates with 60° engine design and nonlinear engine mount to provide exceptional performance with minimal vibration.
The engines can be mounted on 25.5" centers, which means multiple-engine installations are more feasible on narrow transoms.
Additionally, Honda’s Intelligent Shift & Throttle provides for digitally controlled shifting in and out of gear and incorporates a new, top-mounted control box with five buttons that control trim, cruise control and trolling mode. The controls integrate with a multifunction gauge that lets customers monitor engine parameters and set and activate auto trim limits, cruise control settings and view fault notifications.
Honda engines equipped with Intelligent Shift & Throttle are compatible with Dometic’s Optimus 360 joystick. For security, the BF350 is available with an immobilizer ignition system that requires a remote transponder key to start the engine.
The BF350 will be available for retail in early 2024 and includes a five-year warranty.