Mercury Racing Releases 1550/1350 Turbocharged Engine
Never lacking for surprises during the Miami International Boat Show, Mercury Racing pulled the sheet off of the latest offering in its QC4v (quad cam four valve) engine series this morning shortly after the show opened. Dubbed the 1550, the dual calibration stern drive offering boasts an advanced control system, which enables the operator to switch the engine’s power level with an electronic key fob.
Mercury Racing debuted is 1,550-hp engine today at the Miami International Boat Show. Click image to enlarge.
According to a press release from the Fond du Lac, Wis., high-performance marine engine company, the “Race” key fob enables the engine to produce 1,550 hp on 112 AKI race fuel, while the “Pleasure” key fob enables it to create 1,350 hp on 91 octane. Both fuel calibrations reportedly provide maximum torque and efficiency, and are designed to optimize the engine performance at each power level.
The electronic key fobs work in conjunction with Mercury’s Theft Deterrent System (TDS), which disables the vessel when an assigned electronic key is not engaged. Both Race/Pleasure key fobs provide the operator with visual cues on an interactive Mercury SmartCraft VesselView display at the dash, and one key fob controls the horsepower output of multiple engines. According to the release, the key fobs are not simply “valet keys” that “detune” the engine—”this is a fully integrated control system with switchable engine calibrations.”
Features of the 9-litre 1550 engine include forged race pistons designed for 112 AKI race fuel, an intercooler filter with a stainless-steel element and housing designed for easy removal and cleaning, and an engine-mounted hot lead for ease in rigging to vessel battery isolators. The 1550 also debuts new styling including attractive carbon-fiber top and front covers for the entire QC4v engine series.
According to the release, the engine comes with a 10-hour warranty at the 1,550-hp power level (at 2,000 rpm or above) or one year, “whichever comes first.” The price of the 1550 has not yet been released.
Editor’s note:Â To download specifications for the Mercury Racing 1550, click here.
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