2017 Tohatsu 15 HP MFS15DEFL Outboard Motor

Electric start and a 20-inch long shaft define this 2017 Tohatsu MFS15DEFL, a 15 HP four-stroke built for heavier jon boats, skiffs, and sailboats that need dependable auxiliary power.

What to check before buying

Match the 20-inch shaft to the boat's transom height before ordering; this long-shaft build suits taller transoms than the short-shaft version of the same motor. Trim and tilt are manual on this model, and steering is tiller-only rather than remote. Tohatsu pairs this long-shaft build with the same core 351cc engine used across the 15 HP line, so the choice between this and the short-shaft version comes down to transom height rather than performance.

Engine and charging

Under the cowling sits a two-cylinder, carbureted engine displacing 351cc, saltwater rated, running a 2.15:1 gear ratio and turning a three-blade aluminum propeller. Electric start draws from a 12V 145W 12A alternator, and the external fuel tank holds 3.1 gallons connected through a quick-connect line.

What's in the box

Tohatsu includes the external fuel tank, quick-connect fuel line, aluminum propeller, an owner's manual, and a tool kit, along with a five-year factory warranty.

Common questions

Is trim and tilt powered? No, trim and tilt are manual on this model. What happens if the battery dies? Electric start on this model relies on the battery and alternator; a manual-start version of the same shaft length is sold as a separate model for anyone who wants to skip the battery entirely.

Specifications