2018 Yamaha F40 Midrange Tiller 20 F40LEHA Outboard Motor

Yamaha's 2018 F40 Midrange Tiller, model code F40LEHA, carries the same 747 cc, three-cylinder block as the remote-control F40, but rigged for tiller steering, which brings it in nine pounds heavier at 223 lbs dry, the added weight of the tiller arm and controls.

Fit and handling

Because steering is handled at the tiller rather than a remote wheel, check that the boat's layout works with tiller control before ordering. Electric start is standard, and the engine shifts forward, neutral and reverse through a 2.00:1 gear ratio with a 17-amp alternator covering accessories and battery charging.

Diagnostics and durability

An Engine Control Module interfaces with Yamaha's diagnostic software, giving a technician a record of recent running conditions if something needs troubleshooting later. Trim swings from -3 to +20 degrees with tilt reaching 20 degrees, oil capacity runs 1.7 liters with a filter or 1.5 liters without, and both fresh water and salt water are within its rating. The top end lands near 6000 rpm, and a single throttle valve keeps air delivery consistent across that range.

Does it need a special fuel filter? It uses an on-engine water-separating filter, with an optional boat-mounted 10-micron filter for extra protection. What stops corrosion? A five-layer Phaze Five paint process over Yamaha's YDC-30 alloy. How heavy is it to lift onto a transom? At 223 lbs dry, it is noticeably heavier than the remote-steering F40.