Mercury/Tohatsu 6HP Outboard: Review, Walk-Through, & Test Run. Best Jon Boat Motor?

[@Skinnyriver]

THANKS! Check out my other vid where we walk through EVERY maintenance item for this motor including a carb removal and cleaning! Vid here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o2LUlIaugaZ2i6c

[@SuperBullyone]

you have become an expert on these engines. Way to go! And thank you for the advice and tips.

[@Skinnyriver]

I appreciate the views! Definitely not an expert lol.. but I have learned a lot over the last year.

[@josephpeterson5358]

@@Skinnyriver it's a great gift you are giving!

[@Skinnyriver]

Thanks I’m def not an expert. Just enjoy learning about these little motors

[@BrokeBackBob4559]

The hard starting problem is from getting the gas to the fuel pump. The external tank works better because you can prime the pump easier.

[@Skinnyriver]

You are spot on. I found this out last year. Now starts in 1-2 pulls. I did a really quick video on it kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnWVlpiIbMenjtU

[@fishawk90]

& you'd think mercury would give a warning abt this. I just pulled my life away on a new motor. thank god i didn't go to far from shore.

[@noway57]

My yamaha has a factory bulb inside the cowling I can pump. It's a 6hp with an internal tank

[@morganmandery]

Whaf we did with ours was take the fuel tube out and siphoned it up into the fuel pump

[@Prototheria]

Speaking as an owner of Merhatsu 4, I'll echo what everyone's said about using the external tank and priming it with the bulb or waiting for the carb to fill if using the internal tank. One or two pulls when cold once you do that. As for the hole shot, these engines do like to spin and it sounds like yours is on the lower end of the RPM range (5000-6000) at WOT. Throw a minitach on it and if you're under 5500 RPM, get a prop with one inch less pitch.

[@Skinnyriver]

Completely agree with everything you said!!

[@Prototheria]

@@Skinnyriver Did you end up changing props? What worked best for you?

[@Skinnyriver]

I plan to try a 1” smaller pitch prop this spring to get power power during acceleration. I did add some weight to the bow and it helped planing a lot

[@Prototheria]

@@Skinnyriver Right on. It'd be cool to see a current prop and new prop comparison of RPM and speed.

[@TristanMC122]

I have a Mercury 5hp on my 12’ jon. I’d like to see the difference in prop change too

[@donalddrago7728]

Get the pure gas app for your phone. It will tell you where the stations or marines are that sell non ethanol fuel.

[@Skinnyriver]

Nice man, I’m always looking at all the pumps when I put gas in my truck so I know which places have noneth gas. Getting the app now! Thanks

[@jimmielittle877]

I've found BP station in my area has non ethanol gas

[@МастерЦеха-ш1в]

Попробуй поставить винт 10 шаг, прибавка в скорости 2 км/ч.

[@robertkennaugh2057]

I have the same motor and I bought it new and I had the same problem. The problem is to get the gas to the fuel pump I start to use external tank and its much better

[@FreedomSailing]

Hi there from New Zealand just a quick comment to say thanks for the awesome video super sharp editing and great sound. I really hate videos that rabbit on about useless information yours was concise and to the point super well done.

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome thanks!! I appreciate the support

[@user-lm3bp6gu5p]

Hey I have a 14ft alumi Lowe 1470 deep V would like this 6hp would this be enough for me and my wife im 185lbs shes 145lbs?How fast would we go and Would be for cruising and fishing or should I step up to a 9.9hp?

[@Skinnyriver]

If the boat is rated for it and you are going to leave the motor on the boat, I would go 9.9. I think you’d be more happy. It would be work the extra $$

[@dandelaire7829]

It’s to bad you can’t get sponsored by Tohatso for the reviews, you do a wonderful job. Thanks

[@Skinnyriver]

I really appreciate that, thank you!

[@dsquare1327]

Trim....adjust your trim to get on plane faster.

[@coreyh7641]

Advice, do not run ethanol fuel, go buy the non-ethanol gasoline , this thing gets great fuel economy so you're not losing a lot on the extra cost of NE Fuel.....Trust me, and use something like stabil in your fuel also.

[@jimmielittle877]

At 30 + mpgs this Crawdad is off the charts 💜

[@GeorgiaRidgerunner]

i know im late but your the second guy ive seen having trouble starting his engine and immediately start screaming carb check your compression these outboards run at high rpm so they wear quckly so you may be dealing with a high hour count engine also those mercury engines are known for being hard to start

[@Skinnyriver]

I found my issue, system was losing prime between trips. I now use an external tank to prime the system before leaving and it now starts 2 pull everytime

[@jouman450]

I just picked up a brand new Mercury 5hp for 1059€. Prices have come down. 6hp goes for 1290€.

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome let me know how you like it

[@bradleyjorgensen3541]

YES! Pick up your trash and have fun. Just bought a 6hp Mercury for my boat. Thanks for the review Skinny

[@Skinnyriver]

Loving mine, about to go out right now! Let me know how you like yours! Thanks for the view

[@jdram58]

You know the wung ylou see on larher motors well that is there to hekp you plain out quicker cyz the thrust from your propeller also pushes what back but up and down as well n if you have that wing on top of your prpeller it blocks that force to push the rear end down and thus helps your engine plain out quicker you might go with say a stainless steel prop but I think the WING mostIMPORGTANT FOR YOUR ENGIBE you can get them for any engibe Im getting one for a 15 HP johnson I got for 500 bucks I think the most important thing is that wing on your motor because they help provide lift so your boat plains out quicker and a small boat like yours youd notice the difference very quickly.

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah that’s a really good point! I am looking at a hydrofoil, I’ll let you know if I get one and if it helps! Thanks for the support!

[@solarfry]

Doel fin hydrofoils from walmart $29.00’ will get her on plane quicker.

[@Skinnyriver]

Thanks

[@joemartin6439]

I can got A Johnson 15hp total fixed 780 out the door

[@daleintampa]

Now mine is cutting out when I run the throttle up. It will die but then start right up. If I get the throttle back to idle before it dies. It will stay running. Using internal tank. I’m going to check the vent cap this weekend but do you have any ideas ?

[@Skinnyriver]

If it dies with throttle it’s usually motor is not getting enough gas to support the open throttle: 1) something is restricting gas flow (gas cap vent closed, clogged fuel filter) 2) you have build up in the carb and you need to clean it 3) there is something going on with your fuel pump I did a video on this here that might help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hpTNgH1rlqmHg6s

[@michaelhild5436]

I have had the Tohatsu 6 since 2008 on a 14 ft. Tracker Jon boat. Double check your trim adjustment. You may have the bottoms trim set too high to get on plane quicker. Then, once on plane, trim your engine up one position possibly two to reduce resistance and so that you get your maximum rpm’s and top end speed. Concerning cold start, replace your spark plug if you haven’t very recently. Then try to clean your carburetor without taking it apart. I use a product called “Mechanic in a Bottle”. If your engine won’t start at all, drain your fuel tank completely and add just enough MIB to be able to get the MIB fully into your carb and needle valve. Let it sit for about 24 hours. Fill your tank with fresh 89 or better octane fuel and your engine should start. If your engine only has cold start issues and you have replaced your spark plug, add MIB to your fresh fuel for a tank or two and your cold start issue should go away if it is a dirty carb issue. On this motor, I recommend that when you are done boating for the day, turn off the fuel and run the engine until it the car runs dry. Alternatively, drain the carb bowl. Hope this helps.

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome thanks for the advice

[@AKadHub]

It will always take 5 to 6 pulls for a cold start....this is caused by the fuel system not being primed. If you take and hook up the external tank and prime it....it will be a 1 to 2 pull start everytime.

[@Skinnyriver]

you are spot on. Check out my other video when I finally figured this out kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnWVlpiIbMenjtU

[@slydawwg]

Good kicker motor, trolling, back-up for a bigger fishing boat also.

[@mrpixelsurvival8189]

This was really useful for me. But in the UK I'm confused. We have what's known as I'm leaded fuel. What's ethanol or non ethanol fuel???? Ok to most I may seem dum but fact is I still don't know help please.

[@Skinnyriver]

Ethanol is alcohol added to the fuel in USA that helps the gas burn more evenly lowering emission pollution. The issue is the alcohol breaks down much sooner than the gas and causes issues in carburetors in small engines

[@Graham19951]

Its not just you pal, I have a brand new Yamaha 4 hp 4 stroke and I was just about to change for a merc because of cold starting. It is a bitch and as I said to the mechanic today, I would not trust it. It has always gone but 6 to 10 pulls is normal. I have had many two stroke s and never had a problem. Maybe try a Honda then. PS bought a remote tank , no better. My bigger outboards no problem.

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah it’s a common problem. I cleaned the carb, new plugs but I found my main issue being the fuel system loses prime if you use the internal tank. I did a quick video showing what I have done to help it. It’s a lot better now, still not perfect. Here’s the vid if you have a free couple minutes kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnWVlpiIbMenjtU

[@jimquantic]

Cranking over 5 times for a new engine, of any kind--reminds me of the old days--Mercury in particular. Doesn't sound right.

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah I know, I did find my issue and now it only takes 2 pulls. Here is what I found kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnWVlpiIbMenjtU

[@jimmielittle877]

Try Seafoam fuel treatment first ❗️

[@jimmywilson1388]

Run some seafoam in it. It’s a fuel stabilizer and it will clean all the jets. See if anybody makes a hydrofoil for that particular engine and it will jump out the hole and plane off. I would say a Jack plate too but I wouldn’t put it on that boat… lol

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah love seafoam, I run it through everything at the end of the season but started using it with every tank. Also agree with the Jack plate probably not the best in this boat but a great idea.

[@specialized29er86]

In Australia we need a marine licence to operate a boat with a motor over 6.034 hp and the new licencing theory classes and tests are done over a week so I don't need that and I'm thinking like you for a single retired guy and his dog a 6 ho 4 stroke is plenty enough for us in dams, creeks and rivers.

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah I think a 6hp is perfect! Let me know how it goes. Thanks for the sub

[@kirankoli5886]

Hy sir hav mach many boat ingine 6 5

[@ngirardo86]

It sounds like it’s cavitating put a riser on it.

[@DennysCountryLife]

I'm currently motor shopping, this was very helpful. Thanks! I like your sign-off.. "Please use common sense and Please pick up your trash" Thanks for saying that! Sadly some people need that reminder

[@Skinnyriver]

I’ve had the motor for 2 yrs now and am loving it. I don’t think you can go wrong with any of the newer models (Yamaha, Merc Tohatsu, Honda). Or even an older Yamaha 2stroke. Stay away from Hangkai or the cheaper ones.

[@gregmach8230]

Yeah is mostly the crappy gas. Pump gas not formulate for carbs anymore

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah I now have all of the non ethanol gas stations mapped out in my area lol

[@flyingfox10001]

Nice vid! I’m about to purchase a new one for my yacht, alway had Mercury and had a 15 super new, always choked one pull and then start second pull with no choke, started every time this way. Seen others around pulling and choking for ages at boat ramps! As for planning, you probably tried adjusting the tilt setting I suppose? Cheers.

[@Skinnyriver]

Thanks for the view! yeah I have experimented with tilt angles and found a sweet spot but will probably get a hydrofoil to rest out. I cleaned the carb and it helped, I’ll keep experimenting!

[@tmyersdj]

level out motor at pin hang out more. plane quicker usually

[@DukeTattooNL]

I think if you dont trim that far you will plane faster bro

[@Skinnyriver]

Your right!!! Did it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/horPlZ96qdCNqKssi=M0g8JFotKuT9bN_O

[@alexstubbins6298]

Great vid. I got a 3.5 mercury and I always had trouble starting it until I used a fuel additive now it starts 2nd pull. P.s thanks for finding my shoe ha ha 😂

[@Skinnyriver]

Ha ha thanks for the view. Glad your motor 3.5 is running well. It’s frustrating when there are starting issues. I cleaned my carb, use an additive now and found a better way to prime the system. Mines starting 2 pulls everytime now

[@daleintampa]

The throttle has to be in the start position exactly or it won’t start. Not even one mm off. Mine starts one pull as long as throttle is in perfect position

[@charlierahner2141]

I have a 2003 Mercury 6hp four stroke - same motor (also manufactured by Tohatsu). Original owner 2003. Your are right - clean the carburetor. In 2010 the motor left me stranded - carburetor issue. This year, 2020, the motor left me stranded again - carburetor issue. The jets are so small they clog easily. The tip off to the impending issues were same as yours - hard cold starting. My advice is to do what you said you should do - remove and clean the carburetor before it leaves you stranded. For good measure I also changed the inline fuel filter and the spark plug. Now it cold starts in 1 to 2 pulls. I love my Mercury 6 hp - and would buy the same engine all over again.

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome thanks! Good to hear from someone who had a similar problem but was able to fix it. I plan to tear the carb down this winter when I do annual maintenance, hopefully it solve the issue. Thanks again!

[@SombraEnMovimiento]

@@Skinnyriver I think the many pulls you have to do has more to do with the carburetor bowl not being filled with fuel yet. The first pulls are only needed to pump some fuel in there. With the internal tank, the tank should be completely full before starting. After turning the fuel valve open, you should wait a bit, since the fuel needs to flow into the carburetor just by gravity, through the pump and the filter. This takes a while. You don't have a pump ball like with the external tanks which pumps the bowl until the float closes the carb. You might try to connect an external tank and see whether you have the same problem.

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah I’ve tried the external and primed until rock hard but unfortunately it was same result. When using internal I agree need full tank for more head pressure to push gas through to fill carb. I have even pulled the safety lanyard, gave it a pull, put safety back on then tried to start (theory that the pull with lanyard off would fill carb fully and get some gas in cylinder) but it’s the same result... I’ll keep experimenting :). I don’t run the carb dry so day to day use the carb should be full during first pull anyway:

[@SombraEnMovimiento]

@@Skinnyriver Yes true. Then it is most likely the idle port of the carb clogging, as mentioned by others. Or the pilot screw on the carb needs some adjustment.

[@SombraEnMovimiento]

@@Skinnyriver You can also spray some seafoam in the carb directly before starting it and see whether it runs first pull, like here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oavEfIGGgauLqsU (at 0:46). If it runs then on first or second pull, you can be sure it's a carb problem. If it doesnt, it's a problem after the carb (not likely)

[@Deltro61]

Can you confirm the stock prop size? The manual says 8 3/8 x 8, but I think that is incorrect. I'm thinking the stock is 7.8 x 8. That seems to come up much more often on Amazon and eBay when I type in Mercury 6 hp. Maybe I just got an old manual?

[@Skinnyriver]

Here is a chart. www.kirschbaum.at/ki_prop/pdf/mercury_mariner.pdf I’m with you, I think it’s 7.8”. I’ll measure mine this afternoon

[@Skinnyriver]

Mine is 7.8”. Also I looked but the gas hose isn’t marked with diameter size (or it’s too short and size was cutoff) but I bet you are right and it’s 1/4

[@Deltro61]

Many thanks! I ordered the 8" and 9" already, so glad my assumption was correct. And at the very low gas consumption, I think quarter-inch is a safe assumption for size. And seeing how this is made in Japan, probably 6mm.

[@filoIII]

Are ALL mercs and tohats the same motors, regardless of HP? ty

[@Skinnyriver]

Sorry I missed this comment! Tohatsu Japan makes all mercuries under 25hp.

[@jimmielittle877]

Wow just Wow 6 horsepower over 16 mph and over 30 mpg!

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah, it’s an awesome little motor and setup. Who needs a $60k boat lol... I’d take one though :)

[@ryds1000]

if you put on hydrofoil you will plane faster.

[@Skinnyriver]

Most times yeah, won’t really increase power but will plane better

[@terrancewilson3848]

Mite try a little sea foam in your gas, I occasionally use it in all my small engines along with high octane gas.

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah good point. I started using it and love it. I switched to an external tank and now it starts in 1 or 2 pulls. I was losing prime with my internal tank for some reason.

[@Sabhail_ar_Alba]

In my experience the plastic gear shifter can break at the gear feedthru - It simply isn't strong enough to take the push and pull. In my opinion they are not as good as Honda outboards.

[@YakMotley]

Sweet video!

[@Skinnyriver]

Thanks man, hopefully someone got some value out of it.

[@profishinglb1344]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/jqqnqnp7n72moa8

[@japyoo2248]

Go yamaha guys, thank me later.

[@Skinnyriver]

lol 😂 ok ok Yamaha makes a good motor… I give you that

[@jimquantic]

I wonder if adding the supplements available to the ethanol gas will help?

[@Skinnyriver]

I add a fuel stabilizer. Ive always had good luck with stabil. Supposedly gas starts to separate and go bad after 2 months sitting. So I’ve always used a stabilizer just to keep everything clean

[@jimquantic]

@@Skinnyriver OK, but still, even with Stabil, it still takes multiple cranks to get it going when it is cold. One guy said he thought a separate tank with bulb primer might help get it going easier when cold--I don't know. Like you said, no problem after it is warmed up--and that means, in worst case, you need a few cranks only once when you start the day.

[@ronstevenson261]

With cold starting, if you drained the carby at the end of the day, the next time you start it cold wait at least 10 seconds for the fuel to fill the carby before starting it, should start easier.

[@Skinnyriver]

Thanks I’ll give that a shot. I did find my main issue being my gas lines and fuel pump loses prime. I did a quick video on the issue here kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnWVlpiIbMenjtU. I have much better starting performance but will look at draining carb. I have heard that is the best thing you can do to keep your carb clean without buildup too.

[@shday1]

Bought mine new last year. The 6hp Tohatsu SailPro version (the SailPro has an alternator, high thrust prop, and no internal fuel tank). When I first got it, I also used to have a heck of a time starting, until I stopped using the priming bulb on every start. Now it starts on the second pull almost every time. I never bother priming anymore.

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome! I’m thinking about going to the higher thrust prop bigger diameter or moving to 7 pitch vs my 8. Wish I had that alternator for my trolling motor battery :)

[@SombraEnMovimiento]

Maybe you were squeezing the primer bulb too hard, overflowing the carb and draining the engine. You should stop squeezing when you feel some resistance.

[@josephpeterson5358]

Great video! I just paid for a new 4hp Merc, I haven't got yet, can't wait! I fish the Grand River in NE Ohio. Thanks for the great info!

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome, let me know how you like it!

[@stuart2970]

Hydrofoils can perform miracles in some situations. I’ve had them slow down my top speed but get on plane faster. My current boat it made me get on plane when it was impossible with more than 2 people before, but also raised my top speed at any load too! Eliminates bow rise in my current boat too.

[@Skinnyriver]

Sounds like a good Christmas present. I also have an issue with cavitation once planed, I also heard hydrofoils also help with that!

[@bigcountry7373]

I just bought a used 2006 6hp Mercury 4-stroke and only takes 2 pulls to start every time.

[@Skinnyriver]

It’s a great motor! Are you using an external tank? I found my problem and now it’s awesome, 1 or 2 pulls as well, every time!!

[@bigcountry7373]

Yes..It's a 3gal external tank..I watched your maintenance video 2 days ago which was very helpful and did a complete service on it. She now purrs like a kitten!!

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah I switched to an external tank and it solved all my starting problems. Hope you enjoy the motor!!

[@johnny12895]

you should have a prop guard for all that shit in the water.. rev up more faster or put weight in the bow

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah prop guard is a good idea. I tried more weight in the front but it causes the bow to drag once planed. Also with more weight in the front, I actually get ventilation/cavitation (the prop starts slipping or losing grip). I think when the bow drags when planed it causes turbulence and aeration to get to the prop causing it to lose grip.

[@SideGigSquid]

Subscribed! I have the same boat been making videos on mine and the utility trailer I built. Might have to pick up that motor if I can’t get my antique Johnson going. I’m running trolling motor only right now. Hope you get to 100.

[@Skinnyriver]

THANK YOU!!! Checking out your channel now, throwing a sub your way! Lovin this boat and motor combo! Perfect for what I like to do.

[@jimmielittle877]

How fast is just your trolling moter

[@Skinnyriver]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKfZn6Fni86nnLM did a speed test

[@debeeriz]

i bought a force 5hp 2 stroke about 20 years ago, that thing would start first pull hot or cold as long as i remembered to squeeze the primer bulb, the down side was the plastic prop

[@ethanbarclay6292]

Im on an island, and theres nowhere on the island where I can get e0 fuel. what do I do?

[@Skinnyriver]

No where to get ethanol free gas? You can always get a gas stabilizer that has ethanol treatment in it. Check out Stabil Marine. You just mix it with your gas.

[@ethanbarclay6292]

@@Skinnyriver thanks!

[@davidlannik3205]

Cold starting can be solved. 1. pump up bulb. 2. pull choke. 3. fully open then close the throttle two times. 4 Start on first pull. Step 3 for me is critical on my 2014 Tohatsu 6 hp. If I skip 3. frustration in starting.

[@Skinnyriver]

Thanks I’ll give that procedure a shot.

[@SombraEnMovimiento]

There is no bulb, he has an internal tank

[@G56AG]

Are you sure the enrichening circuit is working properly?

[@Skinnyriver]

Yea I cleaned that circuit and jet. I ended up finding the issue. Starts on 1st or 2nd pull everytime now. Here is a quick vid of what my problem was kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnWVlpiIbMenjtU

[@G56AG]

@@Skinnyriver Good find, well done! 👍

[@giorgiogiorgi932]

same cold start problem with my mercury 9.9: in the manual theres a procedure for such cases: just accelerate two or three times before pull. Or i just start in neutral gear with engine accelerated (push a button on the right and accelerate engine)

[@SteveSherron]

Excellent overview.

[@jimmielittle877]

What is the empty weight of your Crawdad , just the boat?

[@Skinnyriver]

130

[@jimmielittle877]

Thx the Sun Dolphin American weighs 110

[@SuperBullyone]

i bought the Mercury because I did not want a Japanese named engine on my US boat. I upgraded my 4hp to 6hp. I bought the carb on ebay for about $150.00. The only problem I have is switching form the fuel tank on the engine to the 3 gallon tank. It does not work all the time. I put a power prop on mine. It made it faster and I have the original prop as a spare.

[@Skinnyriver]

The new sealed gas tanks suck! The EPA regulated all new gas tanks have to be sealed so they don’t have a vent hole anymore so gas flow is hindered. If you don’t have a ‘fuel demand valve’ look into those. Some people break the law and either drill a tiny hole in the cap or leave the cap cracked but that’s dangerous if you flip the tank over.. You may have a thing on your gas cap that LOOKS like a vent but it’s actually just an expansion valve that lets air out of the tank to prevent rupturing if the tank is left in the hot sun

[@Burritosarebetterthantacos]

This seems odd but its a free country.

[@josephpeterson5358]

Hey you were spot on not starting easy on first try! Holy crap! Hahaha! I drifted a 1/4 mile down river! I'm no quitter!! I paddled back to docking spot, just a muddy spot. Put the in a log jam and continued my quest. After 15 minutes I got a little " putt-putt! A little excited I put the choke in half way. Gave another pull fired up nice. I let it idle and pushed the choke in all the way. Expecting it to stall, it didn't. Put it in reverse, nice! Forward, nice! Ran about an hour, slow and easy. Half throttle 5 min, nice. Slow 5min. Turned off. 1 pull restart! Only thing I didn't like was the pull starter wanted to fight me quit often. I tend to jump the gun. I must calm down I guess. It's not a Johnson!

[@Skinnyriver]

Glad you got it going 😂 I was able to improve the cold starting process, see here kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnWVlpiIbMenjtU Yeah I had the same issue with the pull start wanting to pull my arm out of its socket. There is a safety mechanism that locks the pull cord when the motor is in gear. I think when you pull hard that slips out of place and locks the cord

[@michaelwsudziarski6929]

I bought a brand new 6hp mercury the problems I had 1, STARTING OMG !!! Over and over won't start !!!! The clamps that hold it on the transom were stripped or cross threaded. Another thing safety linkage that won't allow boat to start in gear broke .!!!

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah I had a similar problem with the safety linkage last month. It kept locking the pull start up EVEN if it was in neutral. Frustrating, I had to rig it up so it wouldn’t slip out of position. Really made me mad. But overall I’ve had good experience EXCEPT cold starting. I’ve learned it’s a fuel flow issue and it takes a few pulls to get everything primed through the fuel pump. If you noticed how HIGH the carb is compared to the fuel tank, you don’t get gravity flow, you have to pull a few times to get fuel pump to prime everything. At least that’s my hypothesis lol. Are you using the internal tank or external? Many have said external is way better to help starting because it’s ‘pushing’ fuel into carb.

[@czyhorse482]

I see your using the built in fuel tank. I bet your starting issues will go away if you use an external tank. My 2010 4hp 4-stroke Merc will not start using the built in fuel tank. As soon as you 'prime' the motor with the bulb, the 'cold' Motor starts first/second pull every time.

[@Skinnyriver]

You are spot on!! Check out this quick video I made kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnWVlpiIbMenjtU where I found out that the internal tank loses prime and need to prime using external. You are exactly right!

[@ggleyton]

Me encanta como muestra el desempeño del Tohatsu 6 HP 4t... Tengo uno que por alguna razón no acelera a fondo y funciona como si se ahogara. ¿Puede decirme que debo hacer? Saludos desde Chile.

[@Skinnyriver]

probablemente sea un problema del carburador. Tengo un video que repasa las principales razones por las que un motor no acelera. aquí está: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hpTNgH1rlqmHg6s es probable que sea un carburador sucio o un problema de flujo de combustible. Limpie el carburador, revise la bomba de combustible y asegúrese de que nada impida que la gasolina llegue al carburador.

[@Sparkjumper59]

Buy a new carb to solve the hard cold starts.

[@jeffsadon552]

Maybe the motor is sitting to low you might want to rise the transom

[@rod.jordan]

Great review. Thank You!

[@Skinnyriver]

Thanks for the view!

[@zepsadm]

Good review

[@offgridwhitetails8768]

They are different motors. I believe they use Chinese parts such as carburetor which is not the end of the world but does have differences in jetting I believe. I can’t remember the other my dealer told me but wasn’t worth the difference in pricing. Plus warranty is reviewed better with mercury

[@Skinnyriver]

Thanks good points. Didn’t know that about the carb but did know warranty was different. Thanks for the view!

[@toffee1889]

I have tohatsu 6 hp, same engine. Same problem , cold starts

[@Skinnyriver]

Are you using the internal tank? I found my problem now it starts in 2 pulls, check this out if you use the internal tank kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnWVlpiIbMenjtU

[@toffee1889]

Ya, looking at your comments I found it already. Thanks

[@toffee1889]

Also, thanks for your service video.

[@Skinnyriver]

I appreciate the support, thanks!

[@williamghost1516]

WTF is it will SUCKY LOUD intro music... just get ON WITH IT... nice video otherwise...

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah I get it and I’m with you. After I made these vids it started getting on my nerves too when I watch a vid and they had music and b-roll. When you first start making vids it seems ‘cool’ but it is a waste of time.

[@eertje01]

I have the 4hp version. The loudness is really starting to bug me. Do you have any experience in insulating the cowling and would it make a big difference? Hope to hear from you :)

[@Skinnyriver]

I don’t, the only real cure is going up to a 8hp. It has 2 cylinders and they balance each other out. But I think it’s worth a shot getting some acoustic foam off Amazon ($15) and testing it. I might do this, it’s a good video idea. Just be careful it doesn’t get caught in the flywheel

[@peteg8920]

I believe the lower powered mercurys are actually produced by Tohatsu.

[@Skinnyriver]

They are, all 25hp and below Mercuries are made in the Japan tohatsu plant. Basically same exact motor with rebrand. Someone said timing is set a bit different but honestly I think it’s the same exact motor

[@Skinnyriver]

That’s interesting. The 4/5/6hp 2012+ tohatsu’s and Mercs both have the same shifter below cowl (not on tiller) What HP has the one hand shifter? I’m guessing 15-25? That is awesome, hope to get one of those some day

[@damjanbozovic5430]

Is this better or should i buy the yamaha 6 hp 4 stroke? Great video 😀

[@Skinnyriver]

Wow good question... many people prefer Yamahas. If I had the choice of both at the same price I would choose the Yamaha... if you want to get an opinion from someone who has a 6hp Yamaha 4 stroke, join the Facebook Groups “Decker Out Jon Boats” and “Jon Boats Mods and Fishing” groups. Many of the people in those groups have ran both newer Yamahas and Mercs. They could give you an A to B direct comparison before you drop $$$.

[@Mark-tn2vr]

The Yamaha has a weaker gear shift system. Seen several damaged propshaft/clutch dog/gears. The Tohatsu/Mercury/mariner 4/5/6 have a decompression system for easy starts and good gear system. The only good competitor at the moment is the latest model Honda 4/5/6 , they have added the decompression system and as a plus they have rubber mounts between the powerhead and the tiller handle. This reduces vibration in your hand. Thats a big plus feature. Always was a Yamaha man, but my F4A did not have the decompression feature, so it hit back sometimes when starting. This is quite painful, so my wife didn't want to use it anymore. Along with the failing gear system my reason to get rid of it. Yamaha then came with the F4B with the added decompression system. But with the same gear system, so still not up to the others. Strange, their 2 strokes from the past had much better gear systems. Tried Suzuki, also hits back on starting. So in my opinion it's best to get a Tohatsu, they are the best value for money. You get the same if you buy a Mercury or Mariner, for a bit more with another design. I think i would go for the Honda at the moment, but want to try their new one first. If you want a 6HP Yamaha, there's also a 2 cylinder, much better. Or the old 2 stroke.

[@jeffreyelliott622]

That's what i would do if buying an outboard is get the 4 stroke !!!

[@Burritosarebetterthantacos]

I looked at Yamaha last fall but their customer service for small outboards is horrible. Possibly the worst Ive ever experienced. It makes me sick to think I was about to drop $2000 on a small motor and couldnt get a call or email back from anyone in KY....not even the statewide sales manager. After tons of research I think Tohatsu or Honda are the way to go. Of course, I have a 1979 Evinrude that refuses to die and starts 1st pull but she hates the smell.

[@Skinnyriver]

Wish I had a good 2 stroke. I love the Merc but have always heard good things about Yamahas (not their customer service). I finally figured out my Mercury’s cold starting issue and now it’s an almost perfect motor.

[@RidesTheRain]

Great videos! I live in the boro and recognize most of the places you are going. I'm looking at putting together some sort of cheap jon boat setup and I have one question: How do you launch and load back up on your utility trailer? I would guess you don't back the trailer down far enough into the water to submerge the wheels like you would a boat trailer, so what's your procedure? Thanks!

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah back up until the back of the trailer is in the water and just push the boat off. I’ll get the wheels wet but try not to submerge them. Same with taking it out. Boat is so light it’s really easy. Only bad part is I have to get my feet wet or climb across the front of the trailer. We should go sometime!

[@primsolllineguy8689]

Dry nice video well done. I have been in to hat surgery plant in Japan,and they make a great product and sell under a few badges and brands. My suggestion to you is to use external gas tank with primer bulb. Pump it up prior to starting. You will get better weight distribution getting you on plane faster as well as having onboard fuel instead of the one gal tank. When you are done just put the extra gas in your truck. The boat is light so a 4 blade power prop may lug the motor down based on single cylinder. I build boats as a hobby and still run a 2 stroke last of the Johnson’s at 9.9 on a 16.5 foot wood boat. Your passion is contagious and keeping the waterways clean an respecting the fish and wildlife is the right thing to do. In fairness to 4 stroke my 50/1 mix has been closer to 70/1 based on 2. Stroke incomplete combustion. I have worked with all of the outboard motor companies in us and some in Japan and China on the quality side. I have run large vessels and have more fun in a small boat with a tiller and it sounds like you like being one with the water, good for you. Be careful of those sweepers on the river they can cause trouble. Thanks again for the great video!

[@Skinnyriver]

Thank you for the thoughtful comment! You are absolutely right about the external tank. I found that the system was losing prime when I use the internal tank because the carb is so high. I did a really quick video here showing the issue kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnWVlpiIbMenjtU. You are right I love small setups and small streams, that’s definitely my passion. Thank you again for the support!

[@bryandick2278]

I have a coleman crawdad as well. I was thinking about upgrading to an outboard motor. Does this 6HP Mercury have a 15" or 20" transom depth?

[@Skinnyriver]

I have a short 15. Obviously Mercury makes both a 15 and 20” 6hps. I haven’t had any major issues with the short.

[@717rocket]

How many CC's displacement ?

[@Skinnyriver]

123

[@717rocket]

@@Skinnyriver okay thanks 👍

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah I had to look it up, but pretty interesting 123ccs has that much power :)

[@mittwesche3184]

I have a 6 hp tohatsu on at 12 foot flat bottom topper I’ve gotten up to 20 mph I’m a 100 pound kid though so I’m light but average top speed is 18 mph with 2 people I find top speed is 12 mph

[@Skinnyriver]

That’s awesome, 20mph is smokin on a 12’ topper! Thanks for the view, lookin forward for warmer weather!!!

[@johncoyote6755]

Just got a brand new 9.8 tohatsu for my 12’ flatty. Had a Coleman 5 and couldn’t get it on plane. Hoping the 9.8 makes it fly

[@Skinnyriver]

Lol it will fly! You will love it compared to the Coleman 5.

[@garycleaveland2645]

I just got the same motor. I have had it out once. My dealer let me crank it before I brought it home. Started 1st time. I let it sit in my shed for 5 mo. When I took it out ... it cranked fine. But the fuel had jelled and I had to run it with the choke out. Brought it home , cleaned the carburetor and it cranked 1st time. Runs great now. I enjoy your videos. Liked & subscribed. Keep the videos coming !! And thank you.

[@Skinnyriver]

Nice! Had mine out a couple times this season so far and it’s running good. Was 32 deg other morning and it ran great! Having a blast with mine! Thanks for the view, really appreciate it.

[@roncross1250]

I had a generator that was terrible to cold start. Then I found a label on a new one that recommended not closing the tank vent for 15 minutes after shutdown. That fixed it, first pull now.

[@Skinnyriver]

That’s a good idea. Makes sense, thanks for the comment

[@peteg8920]

Maybe a sandbag up front will get you up quicker.

[@Skinnyriver]

Good point, I moved my trolling motor battery around and found a sweet spot that helped. Thanks for the view!!

[@castmastersoutdoors7762]

I see you have a great time with it so I went to buy mine I'm not blaming you but my Mercury 5 horsepower is the worst investment I ever made

[@Skinnyriver]

I’m sorry to hear that. Curious what problems you are having out of it? Was it new or used? There are some special things with these motors that are frustrating that I have learnt and have dealt with or fixed on my end. What issues are you dealing with?

[@castmastersoutdoors7762]

I was told it was a short shaft shame on me for not measuring I didn't know they come 17 and a half in my transom is 16 in that inch-and-a-half cavitation plate below my hullby about almost an inch and a half I have a 12 ft Duke duranautic...I can't plane my stern almost goes under ..and at half throttle is like max power

[@Skinnyriver]

I’m pretty sure that is the short shaft, the long shaft is 20”. I just measured mine and it’s 17.5” to the cavi plate and 15” to the seam where the lower end mates up, I think they actually measure to that point. Mine also sits 2” lower than my transom and my bow runs really low… I solved the issue by raising my trim to position 3. Also you can get a 2X12” board and clamp to your transom to raise the motor up 2”. Have you tried running with trim in a higher position?

[@castmastersoutdoors7762]

@@Skinnyriver I've tried running at all sorts of trim levels I just get Super Dragon can never get on plane water comes over my Stern

[@Skinnyriver]

Here is a post from a guy that had the same issue with a 15hp. forums.iboats.com/threads/12-aluminum-v-hull-wont-plane.548942/ He solved his issue by reducing weight especially in the front. I would read through those 3 pages of posts to see if anything is is familiar to your situation. Vhulls can be heavier than flat bottoms. The only other option is to get a prop with a lower pitch which will give you more power as you accelerate or clamp a 2x12 or something to act like a spacer to get the outboard up 2” to test that theory.

[@barrythacker7281]

I have seen other people say changing props will help plane. I know whail tails will help you plane off.

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah good point. I have a 8 pitch and am thinking going down to 7 pitch. It should help plane but will cut off 2mph from top speed.

[@mrpixelsurvival8189]

By the way what would you say is a good time to run a 5hp 4 stroke per day. Time and speed?

[@Skinnyriver]

Honestly I would not worry about it that much. I would run it as much as you want. If you are going to run for hours straight, I would not have throttle at 100% but pull back a bit at 75% so RPMs are a little lower for prolonged usage. But honestly these motors are awesome. They can handle running long distances

[@dustin9035]

Wow, watching this I was worried about the transom being ripped off from all that power!

[@Skinnyriver]

yeah it’s a plastic boat :) I may need to throw some zip ties and 2x4 back there to help it out lol

[@marinusk67]

Gas valve on the tank not first but last. Pressure in the tank wil fill the carburater.

[@Skinnyriver]

I agree with pressure in the tank filling carb. What do you mean “gas valve on tank not first but last”?

[@ericlewis8264]

hey man where can I buy this motor and get it sent to me all th info I need please help man?!

[@Skinnyriver]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/jHOVoXqciqajkNE This guys got his from onlineoutboards.com he is cool KZbinr and will answer any questions

[@damjanbozovic5430]

What about honda 6 hp outboard? How does it stack against yamaha 6 hp and this?

[@Skinnyriver]

I personally think there are all great. Mercury wins with its warranty, Yamaha wins in reliability (maybe power), Honda wins on price. Don’t forget about Tohatsu as well, they are the same as Merc but cheaper. I don’t think you can really go wrong. My favorite though would be to get one of the last 2stroke Yamahas that were sold in the US (no longer can sell new 2strokes due to EPA). forums.ybw.com/index.php?threads/best-small-outboard.541272/

[@jeffreyelliott622]

Goood video and it is a good reliable 6 hp outboard with 30 miles to the gallon with external tank not bad at all to be an used outboard not used very much !!!

[@Skinnyriver]

Appreciate the view! Yeah I am loving the outboard glad I got it

[@gs425]

Like you say tohatsu make nearly all of small mercury/ mariners / Nissan and have done for a long time. I also agree that you never seem to get same performance from a 4 stroke as a 2 stroke. It's not just their extra weight, but I think 4 stroke power ratings are often optimistic. I'm sure it would help if you trimmed your motor to push the boat flat rather than nose up the way you have. I have a 2000 model year of same motor and it's still running smoothly pushing my sail boat. Regards from England.

[@Skinnyriver]

Yep agreed with everything you said! Cheers and thanks for the view and support! Cool that this little motor and hobby spans over oceans :)

[@gs425]

@@Skinnyriver it's actually amazing that tohatsu took their 2 stroke line of 4 and 5hp and designed a 4 stroke power head to fit on top! As for your starting issue, I had the merc 5 stroke before this which had an internal tank. There was some valve in the fuel line I removed to allow the fuel to fill the carb without priming pulls. This was possible because I only used the internal tank like you. One way to check is open the fuel drain in the carb bowl and open fuel tap and see if fuel drips out of carb. If it doesn't there is a valve stopping the flow and needs the fuel pump operating to get fuel started. Yes youtube is great at pulling people together across the world. Doenst matter if you are in US or here in rainy cold England we all still like playing with boats and motors. Nice review my friend!

[@Skinnyriver]

That’s a really good thought about cracking the carb bowl drain plug to check flow I have always thought it was a carb issue but after I cleaned it, still take 5+ pulls. So has to be fuel flow issue. Im going to try what you said and also experiment with an external tank that has a priming bulb to see if that helps. Logic is the external tank has a priming bulb. if I prime and it starts quick with external tank, then it’s simply not getting gas from internal tank due to needing priming pulls to get fuel pump to fill carb.

[@gs425]

@@Skinnyriver as I said my 4 stroke doesn't have internal, so I'm remembering from 12 years ago with the 2 stroke but otherwise same main outboard. But as i recall The fuel tap only had 2 ways not 3. So it relied on a valve. This, I'm sure, stopped the gravity feed so it needed the pump action even with internal tank. Anyhow I'll leave you to figure. Take care my friend!

[@Skinnyriver]

I’ll pull the carb bowl plug and see. I bet you are right, has to be fuel flow issue until everything gets primed. I have seen some people blow into the internal tank to help push gas into the carb lol. I’m Not that desperate :)

[@ginathacker6207]

Cold starting is a major PAIN / issue. Sometimes 20 pulls, sometimes walk away and try later. Problem from DAY 1 brand new. Once going, always quick re-start. HATE this motor! And, to be sure, I know how to start ANY motor...just not this one.

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah same here with the cold starting. One thing I’m trying is to open throttle a bit with the choke on. Take the cowl top off and put the choke on. You’ll notice when you put the choke on, it actually opens the throttle a bit on the carb to get more gas during choking. I then give even a little more throttle beyond that factory set point. I just started doing this and it started on 2nd and 4th pull the last 2 times. Too early to tell though.

[@ginathacker6207]

@@Skinnyriver Thanx...misery loves company.

[@Bobbydoesarchery]

94th subscriber!

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome man! Thank you so much! It’s my life goal to get to 100! lol

[@davidcanup1988]

Just bought the 2021 6 horse Merc, took it out, could NOT get it to start. Jet ski to the rescue, pulled back in. Tried again, nothing. What i did not do, 1) READ THE MANUAL 2) OPEN the vent on the gas cap, (reading the manual would have helped there. Lmbo Thank you for your videos, now following you lol. Can't wait to try it again, NEXT FREAKING WEEKEND LOL. Thanks again

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah I have done the 3 deadly starting wind before: 1) not open vent cap 2) not open gas valve 3) had emergency stop lanyard not engaged... lol I have been at the ramp yelling at the motor when it was simply not having the gas valve open :) live and learn. Have fun next wkend!

[@garycleaveland2645]

@@Skinnyriver )

[@tcz7742]

Maybe you should lower the pitch of the motor it might get into a plane quicker

[@Skinnyriver]

Good point, I’d like to get a lower pitch prop to test. Just haven’t dropped the $50 yet 😂

[@chronicawareness9986]

holly shit is that a old crawdad lol nice... damn dude where u going with the river? thats nice! i can only get 23 mph with the slow moving river (withlacoochee in florida) and with the wind in my 14 ft v hull alumacraft, and 15 hp evinrude

[@Skinnyriver]

Lol it’s a pretty light setup, can hit 18 with the wind going downstream :) thanks for the view! Appreciate it!

[@chronicawareness9986]

@@Skinnyriver lets get the 8hp or 10 hp on it and see how it does 😆

[@Skinnyriver]

Lol may need some float pods on the back of this plastic boat :) if I get a higher HP. But it would be fun!!

[@richardhatcher7206]

Check your timing bro

[@Skinnyriver]

Its only had 15hrs on it , I doubt the factory screwed up the timing that bad.

[@richardhatcher7206]

I run ngk spark plugs way better plug

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah I moved to NGK iridiums, worth the money for sure

[@jimquantic]

Will it retrofit to a separate gas tank?

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah the 6hp has an external tank hookup. Really convenient to have both options

[@jimquantic]

@@Skinnyriver more than convenient in my case. I am far offshore if/when I need it. And see, the thing is, IF my problem with the main is BAD GAS, then you want a separate small tank of clean gas, that way you get true redundancy, not just running the kicker to the same gas supply.

[@Skinnyriver]

I actually did a video on that. The guy that said an external tank and primer bulb is exactly right. Check out my video on this topic here kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnWVlpiIbMenjtU