2017 Evinrude 15 HP E15RGL4 Outboard Motor

The E15RGL4 takes the same 2017 Evinrude 15 hp carbureted package and puts it on a 20-inch shaft instead of the standard 15-inch length, for a taller transom. It weighs 117 lbs, still steers by tiller, and still starts by rope.

Mechanical layout

This 2-cylinder block measures 2.4 in by 2.36 in for bore and stroke, which works out to 351 cc — 21.4 cubic inches — of displacement. A 2.15:1 final gear spins the engine through 5,000-6,000 rpm at wide-open throttle.

Fuel system and build

Cooling runs through the water rather than air, a single carburetor feeds it, and the fuel path threads through the prop exhaust to run quieter; the external tank holds 3.1 gallons. Oil-wise, it takes Evinrude/Johnson's 5W40 Ultra 4-Stroke formula, 32 ounces at a time, with 87-octane gas in the tank. Shifting is forward-neutral-reverse off a front lever, and a carrying handle with a rear grip helps when lifting the motor into place.

Maintenance and coverage

Expect 3 years of non-declining warranty coverage, and the motor carries EPA 2013 / CARB 3-Star emissions certification.

How is this different from the short-shaft E15RG4? The shaft: 20 inches here instead of 15, built for a taller transom.

Does it have electric start? No, starting is by rope; electric start and its alternator are reserved for other variants.