Thought I was doing a good thing and recently purchased a new 20hp as did a mate at the same time. Boy am I dissappointed. It would not keep going at trolling speed from new, will not start after being tilted and after using it for the first trip got it serviced by dealer to get it sorted.
On the second trip in a really remote area inhabited by large crocodiles we were way up a river [around 25km] at full speed when the valve timing cog let go. Wonderful!!!, after a lot of rowing and walking cross country in the middle of the never never, we eventually got rescued and that was the end of that trip.
After waiting 14 weeks for a new head from Japan, in desperation we borrowed the mates brand new20hp honda motor. Same thing, will not start easy and will not stay running whilst trolling.
Anyway eventually after 18 weeks got my motor back and got around to using it the other day, and it is still the same, hard to start and will not stay running whilst trolling. We dont think we can trust it anymore considering we go to really remote areas for our fishing trips, and we dont want to be let down again
Now looking for some sucker to buy it second hand and I will be in the market for another brand that is reliable, or I may try and buy my old Mariner back!

There was a bulletin on a oil leak problem but no bulletins on any running issues. May be time to call Honda to see if they can help.

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