Suzuki DF8A Specifications
| Engine Model: Suzuki DF8A |
| Engine Type: 4-stroke 2-cylinder OHC gasoline outboard engine |
| Total Displacement: 12.7 cu.in (208 cc) |
| Rated Engine Power: 8 Hp (5.9 kW) at 5700 rpm |
| Fuel System: Carburetor |
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The Suzuki DF8A is a completely redesigned
outboard that prioritises ease of use and efficient operation. Built
around an all-new 208 cc SOHC four-stroke engine, it offers excellent
fuel efficiency and a compact, lightweight profile that is significantly
easier to carry and transport than its predecessor.
A key feature is the ergonomically designed Suzuki Function Tiller
Handle, which integrates all major operating controls - including the
gear shift and throttle - directly on the tiller for simplified
one-handed manoeuvring. The engine incorporates a digital CDI ignition
system for reliable starting and is built with Suzuki's renowned focus
on durability and corrosion resistance.
Its design also allows for convenient three-way storage without the risk
of oil leakage. Available with either manual recoil or electric start,
the DF8A is an ideal power source for small boats, dinghies, or as a
dependable auxiliary engine.
Engine Model - Suzuki DF8A, DF8AR
Engine Type - 4-stroke two-cylinder OHC gasoline outboard engine
Number of Cylinders - 2
Displacement - 208 cc (12.7 cu-in)
Cylinder Bore - 51.0 mm (2.00 in)
Piston Stroke - 51.0 mm (2.00 in)
Maximum Engine Power - 5.9 kW (8.0 hp)
Full Throttle Operating Range - 4700 - 5700 r/min
Idle Speed - 900 - 1000 r/min
Fuel System Type - Carburetor
Fuel Type - Unleaded gasoline (91 octane minimum)
Ignition System - Digital CDI (Pointless Electronic Ignition)
Cooling System - Water-cooled
Exhaust System - Through propeller hub
Starting System - Manual recoil or electric
Choke System - Manual or electric
Gear Shift - Forward - Neutral - Reverse
Gear Ratio - 2.08:1
Steering System - Tiller Handle or Remote Control
Trim and Tilt System - Manual Trim and Tilt, 5-position
Transom Height (Short Shaft) - 381 mm (15 in)
Transom Height (Long Shaft) - 508 mm (20 in)
Dry Weight (Short Shaft, Manual) - 39.0 kg (85.9 lbs)
Dry Weight (Long Shaft, Manual) - 41.5 kg (91.4 lbs)
Dry Weight (Long Shaft, Electric) - 46.0 kg (101.3 lbs)
The powerhead is constructed around a new, inline two-cylinder
configuration with a displacement of 208 cc. It utilises a Single
OverHead Camshaft (SOHC) valve train design, a configuration that
promotes efficient combustion and a compact engine profile.
The cylinder bore and piston stroke are perfectly square at 51.0 mm, a
design choice that balances power delivery and engine smoothness. The
adoption of an OHC system, as opposed to a pushrod design, allows for
more precise valve control and contributes to the engine's refined
operation and fuel efficiency. The engine mounting system utilises shear
mounts to isolate and dampen vibration from the hull.
The DF8A features a reliable carburetted fuel delivery system. A
mechanical fuel pump draws fuel from a standard, separately sold
12-liter remote fuel tank. For cold starts, a choke system is employed -
manual for the standard models and electric for the electric-start
variants.
The engine is designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline with a
minimum octane rating of 91. The fuel system is engineered for efficient
operation, contributing to the outboard's overall fuel economy.
The lubrication system is a pressure-fed type, utilising a trochoid oil
pump to ensure a reliable supply of oil to all critical engine
components. This pressurised system reduces friction and wear, enhancing
the engine's longevity.
A notable feature for a portable outboard is the inclusion of a
replaceable, cartridge-style oil filter, which effectively traps
contaminants and contributes to long-term engine health. The engine oil
capacity is 0.80 liters (0.85 quarts) of SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 oil,
meeting API service classifications SH through SM. A convenient oil
level window is provided on the side of the engine for quick visual
checks.
Engine temperature is regulated by a water-cooled system. Cooling water
is drawn into the engine through intakes on the gearcase and circulated
by a rubber impeller water pump. A thermostat maintains the optimal
operating temperature for combustion efficiency and performance.
The system includes a fresh water flushing attachment, a standard
feature that allows owners to easily flush the cooling passages with
fresh water after use in salt or polluted water, significantly extending
the life of the engine. A tell-tale port provides a visible indication
that the cooling system is operational.
| Mid Section and Lower Unit |
The mid-section houses the driveshaft and provides the mounting
interface to the transom bracket. The lower unit contains the gearcase,
which is filled with 0.25 liters (0.26 quarts) of Suzuki Outboard Motor
Gear Oil or SAE 90 GL5 gear oil.
The gears provide a reduction ratio of 2.08:1, optimising propeller
speed for effective thrust. The shift mechanism enables smooth and
positive engagement of Forward, Neutral, and Reverse gears. Exhaust
gases are expelled through the propeller hub, a design that also
contributes to quieter operation.
Trim and tilt adjustments are performed manually. The engine is fitted
with a manual tilt system that uses a pin in one of five adjustment
positions on the transom bracket. This allows the operator to select the
optimal trim angle for the boat's running attitude under various load
and water conditions. A tilt release lever disengages the lock, allowing
the engine to be tilted fully out of the water for beaching, trailering,
or storage.
The DF8A is designed to use three-bladed aluminum propellers. The
standard propeller diameter is 235 mm (9.25 in). To accommodate
different boat and loading conditions, a range of propeller pitches is
available, generally from 7 inches to 11 inches.
Common pitch options include 8, 9, and 10 inches. Selecting the correct
pitch is crucial for allowing the engine to operate within its
recommended full-throttle RPM range of 4700-5700 for optimal performance
and efficiency.
The short shaft model, designed for a 381 mm (15 in) transom, has a dry
weight of 39.0 kg (85.9 lbs) for the manual start version. The long
shaft model, for a 508 mm (20 in) transom, weighs 41.5 kg (91.4 lbs)
with manual start. The electric start long shaft model has a dry weight
of 46.0 kg (101.3 lbs).
Every 100 hours of operation or 12 months, the following tasks should be
performed: change engine oil, change gear oil, check and clean the spark
plug (adjusting the gap to 0.7-0.8 mm or 0.028-0.031 in), inspect the
fuel line and breather, check the fuel filter, inspect the condition of
the sacrificial anodes, verify thermostat operation, and check the
carburetor, propeller nut, and cotter pin.
Every 200 hours, in addition to the 100-hour checks, the engine requires
replacement of the oil filter, inspection and adjustment of valve lash,
inspection of the timing belt, checking and adjusting the idle speed,
and inspecting the water pump and its impeller.
Every 300 hours, the spark plug should be replaced with an NGK CR6E, and
the water pump impeller must be replaced to prevent cooling system
failure. Every 400 hours, the in-line fuel filter should be replaced.
The Suzuki DF8A is engineered for a wide variety of small watercraft.
Its lightweight, portable nature and ease of use make it an ideal
primary power source for small fishing boats, jon boats, dinghies, and
inflatable craft.
It is also a popular and dependable choice as an auxiliary or "kicker"
motor for larger fishing boats or sailboats, providing slow-speed
trolling and maneuvering capability, as well as a reliable backup power
source. With its 8 hp output, it is well-suited for recreational boaters
and anglers seeking an efficient, quiet, and reliable outboard for
sheltered waters and inland lakes.
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