Yamaha Hydradrive

[bajaman123]

I've got a 1992 Baja 208 with a Yamaha Hydradrive. This is the 330 hp 454 Chevy running the hydraulic clutch outdrive. I have about 240 hours on my boat, bought new in late '91.
I notice that this outdrive is still extremely popular in Europe running behind 250 - 315 hp diesel engines, in fact it is the choice of several OEMs in that market. Obviously Yamaha outdrives have not been in favor or even around for a decade or so in the U.S., I have a couple of friends who had the small-block V-8 or V-6 engines with that smaller outdrive and they had some problems, which I am sure was part of the demise of these outdrives in the States, along with an overpowering Mercruiser presence.
Personally, I love the Hydradrive...it literally is the best outdrive I have had experience with and that includes Alphas and Bravos. Nothing against Mercruiser at all, they make fine units...I just prefer the velvety smoothness of the Hydradrive. But I think I am the ONLY Yamaha fan in existence sometimes. My Baja and Cobalt buddies think of me as the red-headed stepchild at times, I think....lol. To them, if it isn't Mercruiser...it isn't worth having.

Are there any other owners of this engine and drive on this Forum? A quick Search didn't really return any results. I would just like to talk to others owners and see what problems (if any) are likely to show up as the hours increase. And finally, there is a person of some 'Net reknown regarding his expertise with Yamaha outdrives I have seen referenced many times...a Capt. Ken? I would welcome comments from you if you see this post, please.

Thanks!

 

[Kubcat]

Re: Yamaha Hydradrive

I've got a 1992 Baja 208 with a Yamaha Hydradrive. This is the 330 hp 454 Chevy running the hydraulic clutch outdrive. I have about 240 hours on my boat, bought new in late '91.
I notice that this outdrive is still extremely popular in Europe running behind 250 - 315 hp diesel engines, in fact it is the choice of several OEMs in that market. Obviously Yamaha outdrives have not been in favor or even around for a decade or so in the U.S., I have a couple of friends who had the small-block V-8 or V-6 engines with that smaller outdrive and they had some problems, which I am sure was part of the demise of these outdrives in the States, along with an overpowering Mercruiser presence.
Personally, I love the Hydradrive...it literally is the best outdrive I have had experience with and that includes Alphas and Bravos. Nothing against Mercruiser at all, they make fine units...I just prefer the velvety smoothness of the Hydradrive. But I think I am the ONLY Yamaha fan in existence sometimes. My Baja and Cobalt buddies think of me as the red-headed stepchild at times, I think....lol. To them, if it isn't Mercruiser...it isn't worth having.

Are there any other owners of this engine and drive on this Forum? A quick Search didn't really return any results. I would just like to talk to others owners and see what problems (if any) are likely to show up as the hours increase. And finally, there is a person of some 'Net reknown regarding his expertise with Yamaha outdrives I have seen referenced many times...a Capt. Ken? I would welcome comments from you if you see this post, please.

Thanks!

We have just purchased a RIB with twin Yamaha diesels and Hydradrives. If you want to find out a lot about them, jump on forums in the UK, especially those with RIBS.

You are right, they are miles ahead, just never took off in the US as Mercruiser just has such a huge market presence and own the manufacturers.