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Newsletter Sign Up var videoData = {"video_carousel_display":"inline","video_carousel":{"dealer_info":false,"items":[{"title":"Dusky 252 Open Fisherman (2016) - Review Video","image":{"src":"\/sites\/default\/files\/media-icons\/generic\/video.png","alt":""},"url":"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/233829678"}]}}; - [Connect with a Rep](/user/login?destination=/markdownify/node/86255) - [Test Drive](/user/login?destination=/markdownify/node/86255) - [Dealer Contact](/user/login?destination=/markdownify/node/86255) - [Compare to other boats](/boats/compare/86255) [Request More Boat Information](/request-more-boat-information-boat-test) --- ## Price [See the price by becoming a BoatTEST member. Members Must Log In](/user/register) [ ![Boat History Report Banner Ad](/sites/default/files/images/2020-09/boathistoryreportbanner.jpg) ](https://boathistoryreport.com/?utm_source=BoatTEST&utm_medium=testsNew&utm_campaign=affiliate) ## Brief Summary By keeping extras to a minimum, Dusky can sell the 252 Open Fisherman at one of the lowest prices of any CC in this LOA: she goes for about $52,000 with a single Evinrude E-TEC G2 300 HP. She includes the "Dusky Drive" System, an extended motor bracket that allows the boat to have a full-height transom like an inboard, thus improving her performance. Placing the motor several feet aft of the transom also has the effect of increasing the LOA for a smoother ride in bumpy seas. The mount also functions as an extended swim platform for diving or handling large fish. ## Test Results | RPM | MPH | Knots | GPH | MPG | NMPG | SM | NM | dBa | |---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---| | 500 | 2.7 | 2.3 | 0.3 | 9 | 7.83 | 810 | 704 | 81 | | 1000 | 5.4 | 4.7 | 0.7 | 7.71 | 6.71 | 694 | 604 | 79 | | 1500 | 7.2 | 6.2 | 1.5 | 4.77 | 4.14 | 429 | 373 | 81 | | 2000 | 8.8 | 7.6 | 4.05 | 2.16 | 1.88 | 194 | 169 | 82 | | 2500 | 12 | 10.4 | 5.85 | 2.04 | 1.78 | 184 | 160 | 80 | | 3000 | 18.7 | 16.2 | 6.25 | 2.98 | 2.59 | 269 | 234 | 83 | | 3500 | 27.6 | 24 | 7.95 | 3.47 | 3.01 | 312 | 271 | 88 | | 4000 | 33.5 | 29.1 | 10.55 | 3.18 | 2.76 | 286 | 249 | 90 | | 4500 | 37 | 32.2 | 13.65 | 2.71 | 2.36 | 244 | 212 | 91 | | 5000 | 42.1 | 36.6 | 18.45 | 2.28 | 1.98 | 205 | 178 | 96 | | 5301 | 43.9 | 38.1 | 24.15 | 1.82 | 1.58 | 163 | 142 | 97 | [View the test results in metric units](#) ![dusky_252openfisherman_chart_16.jpg](/sites/default/files/images/boat-charts/dusky_252openfisherman_chart_16.jpg) ## Specifications | Length Overall | 25' 2'' / 7.67 m | |---|---| | Beam | 8' 5'' 2.56 m | | Dry Weight | 3,700 lbs. 1,678 kg | | Tested Weight | 4,665 lbs. 2,116 kg | | Draft | 13'' 0.33 m | | Deadrise/Transom | 20-deg. | | Max Headroom | open | | Bridge Clearance | N/A | | Fuel Capacity | 100 gal. 378 L | | Water Capacity | N/A | | Total Weight | 4,665 lbs. 2,116 kg | ## Acceleration Times & Conditions | Time to Plane | 4.6 sec. | |---|---| | 0 to 30 | 7.5 sec. | | Ratio | 1.85:1 | | Props | Rebel 15 1/4 x 19 ss 3-blade | | Load | 3 persons, 3/5 fuel, no water, 50 lbs. of gear | | Climate | 72 deg., 65 humid.; wind: 0-5 mph; seas: 1'-2' | ## Engine Options | Tested Engine | [1 x 300-hp Evinrude E-TEC G2](/engine-review/Evinrude/25500102_E-TEC-G2-300-HP) | |---|---| | Std. Power | Not Available | | Opt. Power | 10 Mercury single and twin engines from 90-hp to 350-hp 10 Suzuki single and twin engines engines from 115-hp to 300-hp [12 Evinrude single and twin engines from 90-hp to 300-hp](http://www.boattest.com/engine-review/Evinrude) | ## ezstandalone.cmd.push(function() { ezstandalone.showAds(103); });![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman running shot](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_running_2016.jpg) The Dusky 252 Open Fisherman measures 25’2” (7.67 m) LOA with an 8’5” (2.56 m) beam and is designed to take on offshore conditions. ### Mission Statement Dusky designed the 252 Open Fisherman as a center console for serious fishermen who want an affordable boat in a package that can still be trailered with a half-ton pickup or SUV. Powered by an Evinrude E-TEC G2 300 HP outboard, the boat is one of the most fuel-efficient in her class and she comes with a basic standard equipment list to help keep the initial price lower. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman aerial shot](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_aerial_2016.jpg)Dusky carries the 252 Offshore Fisherman’s beam far forward, creating a more spacious bow for seating or fishing. ### Features Inspection ### Dusky Drive. Dusky was one of the first manufacturers to build its own outboard mounting bracket in the 1970s. The fiberglass structure supports single or twin motors and positions them 32” aft of the boat’s transom. Positioning the motor(s) farther aft gives them better trim influence, which enhances efficiency and improves overall performance. For fishing or diving, the bracket provides a nonskid walking surface between the boat’s transom and the motors and Dusky offers a number of boarding ladders as options. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman transom](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_transom_2016.jpg)The 252 Offshore Fisherman comes with the Dusky drive, a custom-made bracket that can support up to 350-hp and provides a swim platform between the transom and the motor. ### The Cockpit. Moving into the 252 Offshore Fisherman’s cockpit is as easy as stepping over the transom. The boat can be equipped with an optional aft bench seat that folds out of the way for fishing and a removable backrest. In the aft corners of the cockpit, the boat has small lockers with nonskid finish on the hatches. They can be removed if an owner doesn’t want that them. There are two large drains for the self-bailing cockpit and a hatch in the center of the sole opens to provide access to pumps and other equipment. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman aft bench](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_aftbench_2016.jpg)The aft bench bottom cushion and backrest are individual options on the 252 Open Fisherman. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman bottom cushion](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_bottomcushion_2016.jpg)To open up space, the bottom cushion folds into the transom and anglers can lean into the backrest when fighting fish. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman deck](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_deck_2016.jpg)It would be even better if there was enough space to stick our toes underneath to brace when fighting a fish. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman aft cockpit](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_aftcockpit_2016.jpg)An owner can pass on the bench seat, which opens up the aft cockpit for maximum fishing space. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman aft locker](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_aftlocker_2016.jpg)The aft starboard corner locker in the cockpit contains the fuel-water separator and the pump for the optional Bennett trim tabs. ### Leaning Post Choices. Dusky offers a number of leaning post options on the 252 Open Fisherman and all of them provide space for the captain and a companion. The basic version is built on an aluminum frame and has a bottom cushion that users can lean against or sit on. A backrest is available for more comfortable seated travel. An owner can opt for a version with rocket launcher rod holders and a cooler, another with a livewell or a third with tackle storage. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman leaning post](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_leaningpost_2016.jpg)This upgrade to the 252 Open Fisherman’s leaning post includes the backrest and four rocket launchers. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman fiberglass seat](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_seat_2016.jpg)The fiberglass base provides a deeper cushion front to back and still has a folding footrest. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman livewell](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_livewell_2016.jpg)The livewell has a clear top and is rounded to keep the bait more comfortable. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman leaning post](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_leaningpost2_2016.jpg)In addition to the four rocket launchers, this leaning post has space for a carry-on cooler in the base. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman footrest](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_footrest_2016.jpg)Because Dusky is a semi-custom builder, an owner can opt for a footrest on the console instead of on the leaning post. ### The Helm. Forward of the leaning post, the 252 Open Fisherman’s dash can be configured cleanly for single or twin outboards with space for a variety of electronics and storage options. The steering wheel is centrally positioned with the binnacle-style engine controls to starboard. To make the helm more comfortable for two people, Dusky might consider positioning the wheel to port with the controls in the center. The boat comes standard with analog engine gauges and rocker style switches with circuit breakers for the accessories. The windshield and custom rail that frames it are also standard. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman dash](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_dash_2016.jpg)The 252 Open Fisherman’s dash can be laid out with a small fishfinder to port and this glovebox to starboard. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman helm](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_helm_2016.jpg)Or an owner who wants to go high-tech can choose twin chartplotters. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman accessory switches](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_switches_2016.jpg)The accessory switches are clearly labeled, but we’d like to see the horn switch colored red to make it easier to find quickly. ### The Console. Working forward from the helm, there are rod racks in the gunwales on each side. In the port side of the console, a hatch provides access to storage, the batteries in trays and the helm rigging. The area also has enough space for a portable toilet. On the front, there’s a bench seat with storage in the base. Owners can opt to move the livewell from the leaning post to this compartment or have it insulated as a fishbox. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman gunwales](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_gunwales_2016.jpg)Racks in the gunwales can be used to store fishing rods or landing tackle and there’s plenty of space on each side of the console for passage to the bow. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman hatch](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_hatch_2016.jpg)The hatch to the head/storage compartment is on the port side of the console. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman batteries](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_batteries_2016.jpg)The batteries secure in dual trays in the console. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman console seat](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_consoleseat_2016.jpg)The seat on the front of the console has space for a couple of people and the T-top structure provides natural handholds. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman console locker](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_consolelocker_2016.jpg)With the bottom cushion for the console seat removed, this hatch opens to provide access to a large locker. Notice that the hatch has dual latches and closes on a rubber gasket. ### The Bow. As the 252 Open Fisherman’s deck runs forward to the bow, it rises slightly to provide 33 1/2” (85.1 cm) of depth to enhance passenger security when running to the fishing grounds. It also puts the coaming panels at a comfortable height to lean against when fishing. Cushions that snap in place on each side are available options. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman bow](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_bow_2016.jpg)Aft in this photo we see the bench seat on the front of console and there’s plenty of space to move around the bow when fishing. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman bow seating](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_bowseating_2016.jpg)Optional cushions turn the bow into a comfortable seating area with good depth because of the height of the deck. ### Bow Storage Space. Storage in the 252 Open Fisherman’s bow includes two insulated boxes for the day’s catch on each side plus a forward compartment that has good capacity. In the foredeck, there’s an anchor locker that has plenty of space for grounding tackle and a rode. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman bow pulpit](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_bowpulpit_2016.jpg)The optional bow pulpit has a stainless steel roller and cleats on each side for securing anchor or dock lines. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman fish boxes](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_fishboxes_2016.jpg)We like that the hatches for the fishboxes on each side close with a bungee-style latch to secure them. Some gas struts to hold up the hatches would be a good idea, too. ### Construction. Dusky has been around since the 1970s. The 252 Open Fisherman is laid up with a solid fiberglass bottom and stringers cored with marine plywood encapsulated in fiberglass are individually bonded into the hull. The transom is poured resin about 1” thick and the hull-to-deck joint is fiberglassed together around the boat’s perimeter. ### Evinrude E-TEC G2 300 HP Engine The Evinrude E-TEC G2 300 HP is probably the most technically advanced outboard engine on the market in class. In a nutshell, this 3.4 L engine provides 4-stroke fuel economy at cruising speeds with 2-stroke torque at the low and mid RPM ranges. Its strongest suit, however, is its low-maintenance design which integrates this steering and gear shifting into the body of the engine with no external rods or cylinders. Scheduled maintenance isn’t required for 5 years or 500 hours. The E-TEC G2 has an internal oil reservoir, an 81-degree tilt range, and has auto-winterization. Its beltless magneto system is more reliable than the automobile-type alternators used on most other outboards. The engine was designed from the beginning to be saltwater-ready and carries a 5-year factory backed warranty which includes corrosion. ### Power and Performance Dusky offers the 252 Open Fisherman in twin or single-engine applications up to 350-hp total. We tested the boat with a single Evinrude E-TEC G2 300 HP two-stroke outboard turning a Rebel 15 ¼” x 19” three-blade stainless steel propeller through a 1.85:1 reduction. With the boat at an as-tested weight of 4,665 pounds, we hit a top speed of 43.9 mph at 5300 rpm and burned 24.15 gph, giving the boat a range of 163 statute miles. ### Best cruise was at 3500 rpm, where we ran 27.6 mph and burned 7.95 gph, giving the boat a range of 312 statute miles with 10% of the boat’s 100-gallon (378 L) fuel capacity in reserve. ### In acceleration tests , the 252 Open Fisherman planed in 4.6 seconds and ran to 20 mph in 5.3 seconds and to 30 mph in 7.5 seconds. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman running shot](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_running2_2016.jpg)With the Evinrude E-TEC G2 300 HP engine providing the power, the Dusky 252 Open Fisherman is a solid all-around performer. ### Handling With her 50-degree entry and 20-degrees of deadrise at the transom, the 252 Open Fisherman knifed through 2’ chop with ease. When we plowed through the wakes of a large cruiser in a crowded waterway, the flared raised bow kept the forward seating area dry. In turns, the boat felt nimble and sure-footed thanks to two strakes per side that run full length and turned-down chines that helped her hold a steady line through turns. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman running shot](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_running3_2016.jpg)With 20-degrees of deadrise at the transom and full-length strakes with turned-down chines, the 252 Open Fisherman is an old-school deep-V with predictable handling. ### Base Price $52,200 with a single Evinrude E-TEC G2 300 HP outboard. ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman engine running](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_enginerunning_2016.jpg)The Evinrude E-TEC G2 300 HP provides a strong combination of cleaner emissions (best in the industry), good fuel economy and prodigious bottom-end torque. There is no scheduled engine maintenance for 5 years or 500 hours. ### Available Options and Price • Console livewell ($700) • Transom livewell ($1,995) • 15’ outriggers ($800) • Stainless steel rod holders ($110 per pair) • Tuna door ($2,500) • Insulated forward fishboxes ($400) • Compass ($150) • VHF Radio Package ($475) • Electronics compartment in T-top ($700) • Spotlight ($120) • Saltwater washdown ($475) • Trim tabs ($900) • Aluminum leaning post with rocket launchers and cooler ($1,195) • Leaning post with livewell ($1,100) • Transom seat with cushion ($900) • Dive tank rack (2 tanks) ($150) ![Dusky 252 Open Fisherman tab switches](/sites/default/files/inline-images/dusky_252openfisherman_tabswitches_2016.jpg)The switches for the optional trim tabs are placed right where we like them, ahead of the shift/throttle control. With the lever advanced while running, the buttons are a natural reach. ### Observations With her heavy construction and deep-V bottom design, the Dusky 252 Open Fisherman provides an affordable basic boat for a fisherman. The single Evinrude E-TEC G2 300 HP outboard gives the boat good all-around performance and fuel economy and with its first service interval at 5 years or 500 hours, most owners will have years of operating the motor before its first tuneup. Dusky sells factory-direct from its Dania Beach, Florida facility. It has no dealers and no factory commission sales people. This is the strong suite of Dusky – a basic bare-bones boat without mark-ups for dealers, marketing and sales. And we suspect like everything else, its overhead is low as well. ## Test Video Summary ### Overview The Dusky 252 Open Fisherman is a comfortable center console fishing boat at an equally comfortable price point. BoatTEST’s Captain tested her with a single Evinrude E-TEC G2 300-hp outboard. > *“Overall, we have a comfortable boat at an equally comfortable price point, and with the 300 E-TEC doing the heavy work, we’ve also got a nice balance between power and economy.”* ### Mission And Intended Owner - **Built To Do:** Fishing, with an easy conversion to cruising - **Designed For:** Anglers who want a well-priced, comfortable fishing boat - **Locus Of Operation:** Bays and coastal waters ### Design Overview - **Entry:** 56 degrees - **Deadrise:** 20 degrees at the transom - **Strakes:** All four strakes run the full length of the hull - **Chines:** Reverse chines for stern lift, a level attitude and a good grip in turns - **Dusky Drive:** A fiberglass outboard bracket that sets the motor 32 inches aft of the transom, reducing bow rise and giving the outboard more influence on trim - **Fuel Tank Location:** Forward of the console, which keeps bow rise to a minimum - **Engine Mounting:** Flat mounting system instead of transom hooks, eliminating the twisting effect when power is applied ### Specifications - **Length Overall:** 25 feet, 2 inches - **Beam:** 8 feet, 5 inches - **Empty Weight:** 3,700 pounds - **Fuel Capacity:** 100 gallons standard; an optional pair of 60-gallon tanks adds 20 gallons - **Freeboard:** 37 inches at the bow, 27 inches at the stern - **Cap Rails:** 5.5 inches wide - **Aft Deck:** 4 feet, 5 inches by 4 feet, 7 inches - **Livewell:** 60 gallons - **Windshield Glass:** 1/4 inch thick ### Test Conditions And Test Weight - **Sea State:** Choppy - **Load:** Half fuel and two people - **Test Weight:** 4,665 pounds ### Performance - **Tested Power:** Single Evinrude E-TEC G2 300-hp outboard - **Top Speed:** 43.9 mph at 5,301 rpm - **Best Economy:** 27.6 mph at 3,500 rpm, burning 7.95 gph - **Range At Best Economy:** 312 statute miles | RPM | MPH | GPH | Range (SM) | |---|---|---|---| | 3,500 | 27.6 | 7.95 | 312 | | 5,301 | 43.9 | — | — | **Acceleration:** 1. **Time To Plane:** 4.6 seconds 2. **0–20 mph:** 5.3 seconds 3. **0–30 mph:** 7.5 seconds **Engine Highlights:** - 3.4-liter engine with four-stroke fuel economy at cruise and two-stroke torque at low and mid rpm - Steering and shifting integrated into the engine, with no external rods or cylinders - Internal oil reservoir, 81-degree tilt range and auto winterization - Beltless magneto system, more reliable than automotive-type alternators - Saltwater ready, with a 5-year factory-backed warranty that includes corrosion - iTrim: boat-specific presets based on rpm and throttle position that set trim automatically, which can be overridden at the helm or tweaked on the control screen > *“The Evinrude E-TEC G2 300 is probably the most technologically advanced outboard engine on the market in class.”* ### Sea Trial And Handling - **Chop:** Knocked down bay chop with ease - **Turns:** Good grip from the reverse chines, carving smooth, sweeping arcs and wide turns - **Wakes:** Good agility running back and forth through the photo boat’s wakes - **Attitude:** Level, with minimal bow rise - **Steering:** Connected to the G2’s integral power steering, with a steering knob > *“With her 56° entry and 20° of deadrise at the transom, she knocked down bay chop with ease.”* ### Engine Room Or Mechanical Compartment - **Fuel Filter And Hydraulic Pump:** In the starboard aft corner - **Batteries And Rigging:** Inside the console - **Deck Drainage:** The aft deck is guttered to channel water and dirt to the rear deck drains - **Freeboard:** 37 inches at the bow, 27 inches at the stern ### Features Inspection #### The Helm - **Layout:** Center-mounted - **Display:** 7-inch Lowrance - **Storage:** Upper panel compartment housing the VHF - **Throttle:** Evinrude ICON fly-by-wire, with no cables to stretch or snag - **Trim Tabs:** Within reach of the hand on the control - **Wheel:** With a steering knob - **Switches:** Rocker switches grouped to the left, with the horn in the lower cluster - **Windshield:** 1/4-inch glass with only slight distortion at the edges, separated from the console by spacers so dirt doesn’t collect - **Top:** Canvas standard, hardtop optional, with add-ons like an electronics box and outriggers > *“Tension hitches would be nice to hold this cover open.”* > *“Quick find the horn, it’s right in the lower cluster. We’d like to see this separated somehow, either by location or color.”* #### Cockpit Arrangement And Equipment - **Transom Bench:** Flip-down, easy to deploy and stow, serving as a padded bolster when closed. The seatback must be removed and stored separately. - **Cap Rails:** Flexiteek pads and two rod holders - **Corner Boxes (Optional):** Two corner-mounted storage boxes - **Open Storage:** To port - **Rod Storage:** Under the gunwales - **Leaning Post:** 60-gallon livewell, which can be replaced with rocket launchers, plus storage under the front seat > *“Once closed, it serves as a padded bolster when fishing, but we’d also like to be able to slip our toes underneath for added security.”* #### Bow Arrangement - **Console Seat:** Storage underneath, which can be insulated for fish or lunch, or fitted with a livewell when the seat is removed - **Forward Seating:** Storage underneath, with the console seat box creating three separate compartments - **Tournament Edition:** All bow seating can be removed for more fishing space #### Interior Spaces **Console:** - **Head:** Optional portable head, or an available pump-out head - **Contents:** Batteries and rigging ### Advantages And Disadvantages #### Advantages - Comfortable boat at a comfortable price point - Knocks down bay chop easily with a 56-degree entry and 20-degree deadrise - Good grip in turns and good agility in wakes - Minimal bow rise, thanks to the forward fuel tank and Dusky Drive bracket - 312-mile range at best economy - 60-gallon livewell in the leaning post - Fly-by-wire controls and integrated power steering - Tournament Edition option for more fishing space #### Disadvantages - Transom bench seatback must be removed and stored separately - No toe space under the transom bench for added security - VHF storage cover has no tension hinges to hold it open - Horn switch isn’t separated by location or color - Slight windshield distortion at the edges - Hardtop, head, corner boxes and extra fuel tanks are optional ezstandalone.cmd.push(function() { ezstandalone.showAds(104); }); - [Connect with a Rep](/user/login?destination=/markdownify/node/86255) - [Test Drive](/user/login?destination=/markdownify/node/86255) - [Dealer Contact](/user/login?destination=/markdownify/node/86255) - [Compare to other boats](/boats/compare/86255) --- ## Related Boats [ Review with Captain's Report ![](/sites/default/files/styles/500x375_max/public/DUSKY_233_OPEN_2010.jpg?itok=dDC7cfOo) ](/boats/dusky/233-open-2010) [Center Consoles](/boats/center-consoles) ### [Dusky 233 Open (2010-)](/boats/dusky/233-open-2010) 1 x 300-hp Evinrude E-TEC 300 H.P. 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