Mercury 15EL FourStroke Outboard Motor

This used Mercury 15EL FourStroke steps up to a 20-inch shaft while keeping the same 15 HP, two-cylinder design, remote steering, and electric start as the shorter-shaft 15E, at a dry weight of 99 lb. It fits boats with a taller transom than the 15-inch versions in this lineup call for, while still running from a console-mounted control box rather than a tiller.

Fuel and trim

Fuel still draws from a 3.2-gallon remote tank, trim is adjusted manually, and the shallow water setting opens to 16 degrees the same as it does on the shorter-shaft model. CARB gives this fuel system a star rating of 3.

Coverage and buying notes

This engine's coverage runs five years overall, between Mercury's three-year standard term and a further two years under the Product Protection Gold plan. Since it's sold used, confirm hours and service history with the seller, and double-check your transom calls for the 20-inch shaft rather than the shorter option.

What shaft length is this? 20 inches, longer than the 15E and 15EH versions in this lineup.

Is this remote or tiller steered? Remote, built for a console-mounted control box.

Does the trim move by itself? No, it's adjusted manually rather than with a power system, and the same goes for tilt.

What fuel tank size does it use? A 3.2-gallon remote tank, the same size standard on the shorter-shaft 15E.