TOHATSU BFT 250A User manual

BFT 250A
OWNER’S MANUAL
000000000
Printed in Japan
31ZX2T00
00X31-ZX2-T000
BFT 250A
TOHATSU CORPORATION
Address : 5-4,AZUSAWA 3-CHOME ITABASHI-KU,
TOKYO 174-0051
Phone : [phone]
FAX : [phone]
URL : www.tohatsu.co.jp

Keep this Owner’s Manual handy, so you can refer to it at any time. This Owner’s
Manual is considered a permanent part of the outboard motor and should remain with
the outboard motor if resold.
The information and specifications included in this publication were in effect at the time of approval for printing. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. reserves the right, however, to discontinue or change
specifications or design at any time without notice and without incurring any obligation whatever. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission.
The engine exhaust from this
product contains chemicals
known to the State of California to
cause cancer, birth defects, or
other reproductive harm.
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1
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on your selection of
a TOHATSU outboard motor. We are
certain you will be pleased with your
purchase of one of the finest outboard
motors on the market.
We want to help you get the best
results from your new outboard motor
and to operate it safely. This manual
contains information on how to do
that; please read it carefully.
As you read this manual you will find
information preceded by a
symbol. That information
is intended to help you avoid damage
to your outboard motor, other
property, or the environment.
We suggest you read the warranty
policy to fully understand its
coverage and your responsibilities of
ownership.
When your outboard motor needs
scheduled maintenance, keep in mind
that your TOHATSU dealer is
specially trained in servicing
TOHATSU outboard motors. Your
TOHATSU dealer is dedicated to
your satisfaction and will be pleased
to answer your questions and
concerns.
Best Wishes,
Tohatsu Corporation
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2
INTRODUCTION
A FEW WORDS ABOUT
SAFETY
Your safety and the safety of others
are very important. And using this
outboard motor safely is an important
responsibility.
To help you make informed decisions
about safety, we have provided
operating procedures and other
information on labels and in this
manual. This information alerts you
to potential hazards that could hurt
you or others.
Of course, it is not practical or
possible to warn you about all the
hazards associated with operating or
maintaining an outboard motor. You
must use your own good judgment.
You will find important safety information in a variety of forms, including:
•SafetyLabels– on the outboard motor.
• Safety Messages – preceded by a safety alert symbol and one of three
signal words, DANGER, WARNING , or CAUTION.
These signal words mean:
• Safety Headings – such as IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.
• Safety Section – such as OUTBOARD MOTOR SAFETY.
• Instructions – how to use this outboard motor correctly and safely.
This entire book is filled with important safety information – please read it
carefully.
You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY
HURT if you don’t follow instructions.
You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY
HURT if you don’t follow instructions.
You CAN be HURT if you don’t follow
instructions.
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CONTENTS
3
OUTBOARD MOTOR SAFETY ................................... 7
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION .............. 7
SAFETY LABEL LOCATION ................................ 9
CONTROLS AND FEATURES ................................... 10
CONTROL AND FEATURE IDENTIFICATION
CODES ................................................................ 10
COMPONENT AND CONTROL LOCATIONS ... 11
CONTROLS ............................................................ 16
Side-Mount Type
Ignition Switch .................................................... 16
Emergency Stop Switch Clip and Emergency 
Stop Switch ..................................................... 17
Gearshift/Throttle Control Lever ........................ 17
Fast Idle Lever ..................................................... 19
Panel-Mount Type
Ignition Switch .................................................... 19
Emergency Stop Switch Clip and Emergency 
Stop Switch ..................................................... 20
Gearshift/Throttle Control Lever ........................ 21
Fast Idle Button ................................................... 22
Top-Mount Type
Ignition Switch ....................................................23
Emergency Stop Switch Clip and Emergency 
Stop Switch ......................................................23
Gearshift/Throttle Control Lever .........................24
Fast Idle Button ...................................................25
Common Controls
Power Trim/Tilt Switch .......................................26
Power Tilt Switch ................................................27
Manual Relief Valve ............................................27
Tilt Lock Lever ....................................................27
Engine Cover Latch .............................................28
Trim Tab ..............................................................28
INSTRUMENTS .....................................................28
Trim Meter (optional equipment) ........................28
Tachometer (optional equipment) .......................29
NMEA Interface Coupler ....................................29
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CONTENTS
4
INDICATORS ......................................................... 30
Alternator (ACG) Indicator ................................. 30
Malfunction Indicator .......................................... 30
Oil Pressure Indicator .......................................... 31
Overheat Indicator ............................................... 31
Cooling System Indicator .................................... 32
OTHER FEATURES .............................................. 32
Water Separator Buzzer ...................................... 32
Rev Limiter ......................................................... 33
Anodes ................................................................. 33
Fuel Priming Bulb ............................................... 33
BEFORE OPERATION ................................................ 34
ARE YOU READY TO GET UNDERWAY? ....... 34
IS YOUR OUTBOARD MOTOR 
READY TO GO? ................................................ 34
OPERATION .................................................................36
SAFE OPERATING PRECAUTIONS ...................36
BREAK-IN PROCEDURE .....................................36
FUEL PRIMING .....................................................37
INFREQUENT OR OCCASIONAL USE ..............37
STARTING THE ENGINE .....................................38
Side-Mount Type .................................................38
Panel-Mount Type ...............................................41
Top-Mount Type ..................................................43
STOPPING THE ENGINE ......................................46
Emergency Engine Stopping ...............................46
Normal Engine Stopping .....................................47
GEARSHIFT AND 
THROTTLE OPERATION .............................48
Side-Mount Type .................................................48
Panel-Mount Type ...............................................48
Top-Mount Type ..................................................48
STEERING ..............................................................50
CRUISING ..............................................................50
SHALLOW WATER OPERATION .......................52
MOORING, BEACHING, LAUNCHING ..............53
MULTIPLE OUTBOARD MOTORS .....................54
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CONTENTS
5
SERVICING YOUR OUTBOARD MOTOR ............... 55
THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTENANCE .......... 55
MAINTENANCE SAFETY ................................... 56
TOOL KIT and OWNER’S MANUAL .................. 57
SPARE EMERGENCY STOP SWITCH CLIP ...... 57
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE .............................. 58
TRIM TAB ADJUSTMENT ................................... 60
MANUAL RELIEF VALVE .................................. 61
ENGINE COVER REMOVAL AND 
INSTALLATION ................................................ 61
Engine Oil Level Check ...................................... 62
Engine Oil Change .............................................. 64
Oil Filter Change ................................................. 65
Engine Oil Recommendations ............................. 66
Lubrication Points ............................................... 67
Spark Plug Service ...............................................68
REFUELING ...........................................................72
FUEL RECOMMENDATIONS ..............................73
Fuel Filter Inspection and Replacement ..............73
Water Separator Inspection and Service ..............77
Anode Replacement .............................................80
Propeller Replacement .........................................81
Inspect After Operating .......................................82
CLEANING AND FLUSHING .....................................83
Cleaning and Flushing .........................................83
STORAGE .....................................................................85
Fuel ......................................................................85
Engine Oil ............................................................87
HOISTING THE OUTBOARD MOTOR ...............88
STORAGE PRECAUTIONS ..................................88
REMOVAL FROM STORAGE ..............................89
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CONTENTS
6
TRANSPORTING ......................................................... 90
WITH OUTBOARD MOTOR 
INSTALLED ON BOAT .................................... 90
WITH OUTBOARD MOTOR 
REMOVED FROM BOAT ................................. 90
TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS ..... 91
ENGINE WILL NOT START ................................ 91
HARD STARTING OR STALLS AFTER 
STARTING ......................................................... 94
ENGINE OVERHEATS ......................................... 95
FUSES ..................................................................... 96
Electric Starter Will Not Operate ........................ 96
Battery Will Not Charge ..................................... 96
Fuse Replacement ............................................... 96
OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR TURNS OFF AND 
ENGINE SPEED IS LIMITED ........................... 99
OVERHEAT INDICATOR COMES ON AND 
ENGINE SPEED IS LIMITED ......................... 100
WATER SEPARATOR BUZZER SOUNDS ....... 101
SUBMERGED OUTBOARD MOTOR ................ 102
TECHNICAL INFORMATION ..................................104
Serial Number Locations ...................................104
Battery ...............................................................105
Emission Control System Information ..............106
Star Label ...........................................................109
Specifications .....................................................111
CONSUMER INFORMATION ..................................113
Emission Control System Warranty ..................113
INDEX .........................................................................118
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7
OUTBOARD MOTOR SAFETY
IMPORTANT SAFETY
INFORMATION
The TOHATSU BFT250A outboard
motor is designed for use with boats
that have a suitable manufacturer’s
power recommendation. Other uses
can result in injury to the operator or
damage to the outboard motor and
other property.
Most injuries or property damage can
be prevented if you follow all
instructions in this manual and on the
outboard motor. The most common
hazards are discussed in this chapter,
along with the best way to protect
yourself and others.
Operator Responsibility
• It is the operator’s responsibility to
provide the necessary safeguards to
protect people and property. Know
how to stop the engine quickly in
case of emergency. Understand the
use of all controls.
• Stop the engine immediately if
anyone falls overboard, and do not
run the engine while the boat is
near anyone in the water.
• Always stop the engine if you must
leave the controls for any reason.
• Attach the emergency stop switch
lanyard securely to the operator.
• Always wear a PFD (Personal
Flotation Device) while on the
boat.
• Familiarize yourself with all laws
and regulations relating to boating
and the use of outboard motors.
• Be sure that anyone who operates
the outboard motor receives proper
instruction.
• Be sure the outboard motor is
properly mounted on the boat.
• Do not remove the engine cover
while the engine is running.
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8
OUTBOARD MOTOR SAFETY
Refuel With Care
• Gasoline is extremely flammable,
and gasoline vapor can explode.
Refuel outdoors, in a 
well-ventilated area, with the
engine stopped. Never smoke near
gasoline, and keep other flames and
sparks away.
• Refuel carefully to avoid spilling
fuel. Avoid overfilling the fuel
tank.
• After refueling, tighten the fuel
tank cap securely. If any fuel is
spilled, make sure the area is dry
before starting the engine.
Carbon Monoxide Hazard
Exhaust contains poisonous carbon
monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas.
Breathing carbon monoxide can
cause loss of consciousness and may
lead to death.
If you run the engine in an area that is
confined, or even partly enclosed, the
air you breathe could contain a
dangerous amount of exhaust gas.
Never run your outboard inside a
garage or other enclosure.
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9
OUTBOARD MOTOR SAFETY
SAFETY LABEL LOCATION
The label shown here contains important safety information. Please read it carefully. This label is considered a
permanent part of your outboard motor. If the label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact an authorized
TOHATSU dealer for a replacement.
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10
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
CONTROL AND FEATURE IDENTIFICATION CODES
Refer to this chart for an explanation of the Type Codes used in this manual to identify control and feature applications.
Model BFT250A
Type LA XA XCA
Transom Height
(Shaft Length)
20.0 in (508 mm) •
25.0 in (635 mm) • •
Standard Rotating Propeller Shaft • •
Counterrotating Propeller Shaft •
Power Trim/Tilt • • •
TYPE CODE (example)
LCA
Destination
A: American
Rotating direction of propeller shaft
C: Counterrotating propeller shaft
None: Standard rotating propeller shaft
Transom Height
L: 20.0 in (508 mm), X: 25.0 in (635 mm)
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11
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
COMPONENT AND CONTROL LOCATIONS
ENGINE COVER
ENGINE COVER
LATCH
MANUAL
RELIEF
VA LV E
ANODE
COOLING WATER INTAKE PORT
(each side) PROPELLER
EXHAUST PORT/
WATER OUTLET
PORT
ANTIVENTILATION
PLATE
ANODE
IDLE PORT
POWER TILT SWITCH COOLING SYSTEM INDICATOR
TILT LOCK LEVER
PRODUCT
IDENTIFICATION
NUMBER
TRIM TAB
ANODE
ENGINE OIL
DRAIN BOLT
(inside cover)
FLUSH PORT
CONNECTOR
STERN
BRACKET
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12
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
SPARK PLUGS
(under coil)
OIL LEVEL DIPSTICK FUEL FILTER
(inside strainer cup)
NMEA INTERFACE COUPLER
JUNCTION BOX
(FUSES)
OIL FILLER CAP
WATER SEPARATOR
SPARK PLUGS
(under coil)
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13
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
Remote Controls (optional equipment)
(SIDE-MOUNT REMOTE CONTROL)
GEARSHIFT/THROTTLE
CONTROL LEVER
POWER TRIM/TILT
SWITCH
SPARE SWITCH
CLIP
BUZZER
(inside)
CONTROL LEVER
FRICTION ADJUSTER
EMERGENCY STOP
SWITCH LANYARD
EMERGENCY STOP
SWITCH CLIP
EMERGENCY
STOP SWITCH
IGNITION
SWITCH
FAST IDLE
LEVER
NEUTRAL RELEASE
LEVER
INDICATORS
(Oil pressure, Overheat,
Alternator, Malfunction)
(PANEL-MOUNT REMOTE CONTROL)
GEARSHIFT/THROTTLE
CONTROL LEVER
POWER TRIM/TILT
SWITCH
FAST IDLE BUTTON
CONTROL PANEL
(for PANEL-MOUNT type)
BUZZER
EMERGENCY STOP
SWITCH LANYARD
EMERGENCY STOP
SWITCH CLIP
IGNITION
SWITCH
NEUTRAL RELEASE
LEVER
INDICATORS
(Oil pressure, Overheat,
Alternator, Malfunction)
EMERGENCY
STOP SWITCH
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14
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
(SINGLE TOP-MOUNT REMOTE CONTROL)
GEARSHIFT/THROTTLE
CONTROL LEVER
POWER
TRIM/TILT
SWITCH
CONTROL PANEL
(for TOP-MOUNT SINGLE type)
BUZZER
IGNITION
SWITCH
POWER TRIM/TILT
SWITCH (LEFT)
GEARSHIFT/THROTTLE
CONTROL LEVERS
POWER TRIM/TILT
SWITCH (RIGHT)
(DUAL TOP-MOUNT REMOTE CONTROL)
EMERGENCY STOP
SWITCH CLIP
EMERGENCY STOP
SWITCH LANYARD
EMERGENCY
STOP SWITCH
INDICATORS
(Oil pressure, Overheat,
Alternator, Malfunction)
FAST IDLE
BUTTON
(for TOP-MOUNT DUAL type)
FAST IDLE
BUTTON
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15
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
Tachometer 
(optional equipment)
Trim Meter 
(optional equipment)
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16
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
CONTROLS
Side-Mount Type
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch controls the
ignition system and the starter motor.
Turning the ignition switch key to the
START position starts the engine.
The key automatically returns to the
ON position when released from the
START position.
The engine will not start unless the
gearshift/throttle control lever is in
the N (neutral) position (p. 38) and
the emergency stop switch clip is in
the emergency stop switch.
Turning the ignition switch to the
OFF position stops the engine.
OFF
ON START
IGNITION
SWITCH
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17
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
Emergency Stop Switch Clip and
Emergency Stop Switch
The emergency stop switch clip must
be inserted in the emergency stop
switch in order for the engine to start
and run. The emergency stop switch
lanyard must be attached securely to
the operator or to the operator’s PFD
(Personal Flotation Device).
When used as described, the
emergency stop switch clip and
emergency stop switch lanyard
system stops the engine if the
operator falls away from the controls.
A spare switch clip is stored in a slot
in the control housing (optional
equipment).
Gearshift/Throttle Control 
Lever
The gearshift/throttle control lever
controls engine speed and selects F
(forward), N (neutral), or R (reverse)
gears.
EMERGENCY
STOP SWITCH
EMERGENCY STOP
SWITCH CLIP
EMERGENCY
STOP SWITCH
CLIP
EMERGENCY
STOP SWITCH
LANYARD
EMERGENCY
STOP SWITCH
LANYARD
SPARE SWITCH CLIP
GEARSHIFT/THROTTLE
CONTROL LEVER
NEUTRAL RELEASE
LEVER
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18
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
Moving the control lever 30° from N
(neutral) selects the gear, and further
movement increases engine speed.
The control lever automatically locks
itself in the N (neutral) position. To
move the lever out of the N (neutral)
position, you must squeeze the neutral
release lever on the underside of the
lever handle.
A friction adjuster near the base of the
control lever(s) adjusts the operating
resistance of the control lever(s).
Refer to p. 49.
Less friction allows easier control
lever movement. More friction helps
to hold a steady throttle setting while
cruising.
MAXIMUM
F (FORWARD)
SHIFT
30°
N (NEUTRAL)
R (REVERSE)
GEARSHIFT/THROTTLE
CONTROL LEVER
THROTTLE OPENING
MINIMUM
30°
SHIFT
MINIMUM
THROTTLE OPENING
MAXIMUM
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