48 LS
New Technology By David Lesh, Service Director
Outboard engines continue to push the performance envelope and Mercury’s new 600 horsepower Verado just gave it a big shove. The new 7.6 liter naturally aspirated V-12 is Mercury’s most powerful
SEA RAY SXO 400
engine ever and it introduces a list of design features that other manufacturers are sure to emulate.
For starters, the lower gearcase turns independently of the main engine. This allows the lower unit to turn 45 degrees each way when most outboards are only able to turn 30 degrees. This results in increased maneuverability in close quarters, especially when combined with the joystick function which allows multiple gearcases to turn in different directions. Having the main engine stationary also saves space on the transom since there is no longer a need to accommodate the side-to-side movement of the engine when turning. The industry’s first two-speed automatic transmission produces higher torque to help during acceleration and also a slower first gear prop speed for better maneuverability when docking. The shifting between gears as the engine accelerates is nearly imperceptible. Mercury engines are already very quiet and this is further enhanced with the
integration of their new transmission. The new 600hp Verado is the quietest highhorsepower outboard to ever be built. All of these cutting-edge features, along with the unique styling of the new 600 Verado, will push the large outboard industry to a new level of performance. We are eager to see the new 600 Verado as they begin to arrive on our larger Tiara, Pursuit, Chris-Craft and Sea Ray boats we sell and service. walstrom.com | 17
