[Rhodes22-list] RE: Two cycle motors

[Kroposki]

Jim:
     Now you have me looking some more.
                                         Ed K
See Following for starters:

http://www.epa.gov/region01/pr/2002/jul/020716.html

Your answer must be here:

http://www.epa.gov/fedrgstr/EPA-AIR/1996/September/Day-19/pr-23668DIR/Ot
her/maine.txt.html


And:

EPA Standards Usher in Cleaner Engines
Who: Working cooperatively with the marine industry, the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) is requiring a new generation of marine engines
featuring cleaner technology and better engine performance.

What: The new standard requires a 75 percent reduction in outboard and
personal watercraft engine hydrocarbon emissions from 1996 levels by the
year 2006.

When: The rule was finalized in October 1996 and will be phased in over
a nine-year period. The first year of phase-in occurred in 1998.

Why: Many boats and nearly all personal watercraft are equipped with
conventional, carbureted 2-stroke engines. These engines are light
weight and have a high power-to-weight ratio. They are easy to maintain
and less expensive than other types of engines. However, these engines
also expel relatively large amounts of hydrocarbons into the air and
water. Conventional 2-stroke engines produce roughly 14 times as much
ozone-forming pollution as 4-stroke engines. Because the inlet and
exhaust ports open at the same time during the combustion cycle, 25-30%
of a 2-stroke's fuel and oil is discharged unburned. About half of this
evaporates immediately while the other half lingers in the water column
for a period of time. Direct effects are site specific and vary with
weather and water conditions, but overall may have a negative impact on
fish and plant life. Of non-road sources, the EPA has determined that
marine engines are the second largest average contributor of hydrocarbon
emissions. Small-spark ignition engines such as lawn mowers and garden
tractors are the largest.

The new regulations will significantly reduce marine engine emissions
and manufacturers aren't waiting to comply. All marine engine
manufacturers currently meet EPA standards. Companies such as OMC,
Mercury, Honda and Yamaha have developed or adopted new engine
technology that meets or beats EPA standards. Direct fuel injection
engines, for example, emit 75% to 95% less ozone-forming exhaust than
conventional marine engines do for the same horsepower. Four-stroke
outboards are widely available for 70 hp down and new models are
available up to 130 hp.

In addition to being more environmentally friendly, the new OB/PWC
engine technology will provide boaters with many performance advantages.
The engines generally provide easier starting, faster acceleration,
quicker throttle response, and a reduction in fumes and noise.
Significant improvements in fuel economy could provide hundreds of
dollars in fuel savings. Furthermore, the new fuel systems and engine
designs will relieve boaters from the hassle of mixing fuel and oil. As
an added benefit to the boat owner, the emissions performance of these
new OB/PWC marine engines will be covered by a federally mandated
three-year or 200 hour warranty, more than double the warranty currently
provided by most engine manufacturers.

Even though boat engines currently in use are not affected by this
regulation, the Marine Board encourages retiring conventional 2-stroke
outboards and gearing up with quieter, cleaner, more efficient engines.
If you have a large outboard, you might consider purchasing a small
four-stroke kicker to use when trolling or moving short distances.
You'll save money on fuel, save wear-and-tear on your larger motor and
enjoy a cleaner environment, too.

Frequently Asked Questions:
Does this mean I have to buy a new engine by 2006?

No, the rules apply only to engine manufacturers. Boat owners and
dealers are not required to modify their current engines to meet the new
standards.

Do the new laws affect all watercraft?

No, only new outboard and personal watercraft engines are affected.
Emission standards are not set for stern drives and inboard engines due
to the inherently clean technology these engines provide. However,
poorly tuned or maintained inboard motors can contribute pollutants to
the environment, too. Make sure all your boating equipment is clean and
well maintained.

Can I upgrade my engine to be EPA 2006 compliant?

No, the new, cleaner technology developed by the marine industry cannot
be retrofitted. However, you can make sure your engine is well tuned,
use a low-smoke oil and keep your engine's exterior free of gas, grease
or oil. Also, if replacing your large 2-stroke isn't an option, consider
a 4-stroke "kicker" motor for trolling or other slow-speed activities.
You'll save fuel, pollute less, and save wear and tear on your big
motor.

Are new engines going to wind up costing more?

Manufacturer competition and market demand for the quieter, more
efficient engines will likely reduce costs over the coming years.
Consider long-term fuel and oil savings when weighing the cost
difference between a four-stroke or new EFI two-stroke marine engine -
it will likely save you money in the long run.

http://www.boatwashington.org/boatwashington_news_archives.htm#EPA%20Sta
ndards%20Usher%20in%20Cleaner%20Engines