Klaxon Diesel Outboards

Chinese-built Klaxon Diesel Outboards have been gaining popularity overseas. On the commercial side, they have been used around offshore drilling rigs because gasoline-powered engines are forbidden.

Klaxon offers engines in single, twin, triple or four cylinders ranging from 4 to 150 hp. The company’s website says it takes an inline diesel car engine and links the powerhead to the lower unit with a single belt. Klaxon further explains that it chose not to use twin belts because it robs too much power. It uses a single belt shortened as much as possible to reduce power loss. The gearbox was redesigned to take advantage of the higher torque of the diesel to maintain 5500 rpm at the propeller. The lower unit is the same as a gasoline-burning outboard.

The Klaxon EUD150 is a four-cylinder, four-stroke diesel outboard with a displacement of 1,565 cubic centimeters (cc). It has a gear ratio of 2:1 and the weight is listed at 551.16 lbs. (250 kg). the EUD 100 is a three-cylinder with a 1,220 cc powerhead with the same gear ratio and a weight of 463 lbs. (210 kg).

Corrosion Prevention

A closed loop cooling system with a radiator prevents saltwater corrosion. For the 60-hp to 150-hp offerings, Klaxon Diesel Outboard Motors uses a German manufacturer based in Bavaria. It’s known for making lightweight, robust engines that are used in small construction machinery, generators and pumps.

A 36-month warranty is offered on new engines.