Diesel outboards are becoming an increasingly popular choice for boaters. They are fuel efficient, torque-rich, and offer a great alternative to traditional gasoline outboards. However, they come with a price tag that can be prohibitive for some buyers. So, what makes diesel outboards so expensive?
The main reason diesel outboards are more expensive than gasoline outboards is the cost of research and development. It takes a lot of time and money to create a new product, and diesel outboard manufacturers must invest heavily in research and development in order to stay ahead of the competition. Additionally, there are only a few companies that produce diesel outboards, which helps to drive up the cost.
Despite the higher price tag, diesel outboards offer many advantages over gasoline outboards. They are fuel efficient, providing significantly more miles per gallon than gasoline engines. They also have more torque, which means they can handle heavier loads without straining.
Diesel outboards are not a new technology, but they are becoming increasingly popular as the boating industry looks for more fuel-efficient and environmentally-friendly options. If you are considering a diesel outboard for your next boat, be prepared to pay a little extra upfront. However, you will likely find that the long-term savings and advantages outweigh the initial cost.
Old diesel outboards were not very popular because they emitted a lot of fumes. The new designs have solved this problem, and they are becoming more popular because people see the benefits of owning one. Let us now look in detail, at why these outboards are expensive.
Diesel Outboards Are Fuel Efficient:
Diesel outboards are 20% more fuel-efficient than gasoline engines. This means that you will save money on fuel costs in the long run. With rising gas prices, this can be a significant saving.
The way fuel burns in a diesel engine are also more efficient. Gasoline engines rely on a spark plug to ignite the fuel, which can result in some of the fuel not being burned. This wasted fuel turns into pollution.
Diesel outboards do not have this problem because they use compression to ignite the fuel. This means that all of the fuel is burned, resulting in fewer emissions. Customers are ready to pay more for a product that is better for the environment and will save them money in the long run.
Diesel Outboards Have More Torque:
Diesel outboards have up to 50% more torque than gasoline engines. This means that they can handle heavier loads without straining. This is especially beneficial for commercial fishermen and public yachts who need to tow large loads.
The extra torque also makes diesel outboards more responsive. This is because the engine does not have to work as hard to achieve the same level of power. This is an important consideration for anyone who wants a heavy payload vessel.
Being able to have more torque and carry heavier payloads is one of the reasons why diesel outboards are expensive. These benefits come at a cost.
Diesel Outboards Have Fewer Emissions
As we mentioned before, diesel outboards are more fuel-efficient than gasoline outboards. This means that they produce fewer emissions. This is better for the environment and also meets stricter emission standards that are being put in place in many countries.
The lower emissions mean that diesel outboards are considered to be green technology. This is something that many consumers are willing to pay more for.
With increased awareness of strict environmental guidelines, the boating industry is looking for ways to reduce its emissions. Diesel outboards offer a solution that is both fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly.
Diesel Outboards Are Durable
Diesel outboards are built to last. They’re made with high-quality materials and construction, which makes them much more durable than gasoline outboards. This means that you can expect your diesel outboard to last longer and require less maintenance over time.
Additionally, diesel outboards are designed for commercial use. They’re often used in heavy-duty applications, such as in fishing boats or in towboats. This means that they’re built to withstand more wear and tear than gasoline outboards.
With durability comes a higher price tag. But, if you’re looking for a long-lasting outboard that will withstand heavy use, then a diesel outboard is the way to go.
There Are Fewer Diesel Outboard Engine Manufacturers
There are only a handful of companies that manufacture diesel outboards. This lack of competition drives up the price. They have a brand to protect and can charge whatever the market will bear.
The companies that do manufacture diesel outboards are typically large, well-established firms with a reputation to uphold. This also adds to the cost.
Research and Development
In its early years, diesel outboards were notorious for emission problems. Manufacturers have had to spend a lot of money on research and development to solve these issues. It took years to develop the technology to make diesel outboards cleaner and more fuel-efficient.
The research and development costs are passed on to the customer in the form of a higher price tag. However, customers are willing to pay for a product that is well-made and reliable.
Every prototype has to be tested extensively before it can be released to the market. This is an expensive process, but it is necessary to ensure that the outboard meets all environmental regulations.
Diesel Outboards Are More Reliable
Diesel outboards are built to last. They are designed for commercial use and can run for hours without needing a break. This reliability comes at a cost.
Diesel outboards are not immune to problems, but they are less likely to have issues than gasoline outboards. This is because diesel engines are simpler in design. There are fewer moving parts, and the parts that are moving are under less stress.
Diesel Outboards Require More Maintenance
Diesel outboards require more maintenance than gasoline engines. This is because they have more parts that need to be lubricated and cooled.
The extra maintenance is necessary to keep the engine running smoothly and efficiently. However, it does add to the cost of owning a diesel outboard. Modern diesel outboards have low-maintenance designs that make them easier to care for.
Should You Buy a Second-Hand or Used Diesel Outboard?
The high cost of diesel outboards means that many people opt for second-hand or used models. This can be a great way to save money, but it is important to do your research first.
Second-hand and used diesel outboards may not have the same level of performance or reliability as a new model. They may also not come with a warranty.
It is important to buy from a reputable dealer and to get the outboard serviced before you use it. This will ensure that you are getting a quality product that will last for years to come.
Check the engine hours and make sure that the outboard has been well cared for. A used diesel outboard that has been properly maintained can be a great way to save money.
Diesel Outboard Engines Are Not Mass Produced
Diesel outboard engines are not mass produced like gasoline engines. This means that they are more expensive to manufacture. Being heavier than gas outboards, they are also more expensive to ship. The lack of mass production also means that there are fewer diesel outboard engines on the market. This gives the manufacturers more control over the price.
Conclude
When it comes to diesel outboards, you get what you pay for. These engines are more expensive than their gasoline counterparts, but they offer a number of benefits that make them worth the investment. Diesel outboards have more torque, making them ideal for heavy loads. They are also more reliable and require less maintenance. If you’re looking for a durable engine that can handle a lot of wear and tear, then a diesel outboard is the right choice for you. Just be sure to do your research before buying one so that you know what you’re getting yourself into.
Clifford Slater is a seasoned writer with over 25 years of experience in boats and fishing trips. With his extensive knowledge and expertise in boats and fishing, he has become a recognized authority in the industry. Clifford has made it a point to regularly visit popular fishing destinations such as Florida and other places in the USA to stay up to date with the latest trends and techniques in the field.
Over the years, Clifford has acquired a wealth of knowledge about boats and fishing, which he has shared through his writing. His articles and books are widely read by fishing enthusiasts and professionals alike, and his insights are highly valued by those seeking to improve their skills in the field. Clifford’s passion for boats and fishing is evident in his writing, and his readers appreciate the depth of his expertise and his ability to communicate complex topics in an engaging and accessible way.
Clifford Slater’s impressive credentials and dedication to his craft make him a trusted authority in the world of boats and fishing. His commitment to staying up to date with the latest developments in the industry, combined with his deep knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, ensures that his writing is always informative and valuable. For those seeking to improve their skills or simply enjoy the beauty of the sea, Clifford’s writing is a must-read.
