3 Most Common Problems with Suzuki 350 Outboard

Suzuki 350 HP V6 4-stroke outboard engine came out in 2017 surpassing all of its predecessors in terms of power. 

However, under the light of the 350’s fame, there is a darkness of several issues. 

After going through the customer feedback, I have gathered the 3 most common problems with Suzuki 350 outboard and tried to give possible solutions.

ProblemsReasons
Not enough fuel killing the engineLeaked or clogged fuel lineFaulty bulb
Stalling at low RPMsBackdated fuel pump and ECMNew EPA guideline for ventless fuel tank
Reduced max RPMJammed or clogged VST filterFaulty injectors

1. Insufficient Fuel Supply

One of the customers mentioned that he had a pair of 350 engines, and one of them was starving for fuel.

The problem occurred the first time he installed and ran it. 

Even after fixing the line, the engine got occasionally killed in case you left it idle for over 15 or 20 minutes. 

The situation makes it harder to restart without priming the bulb.

Possible reason

After doing a thorough inspection, he found out that a piece of polyethylene liner of the fuel hose was the culprit. It was blocking the engine’s fuel line.

Even though the issue was not fixed, he had to suspect the bulb also had to do something with it. 

Possible fix

Fixing the fuel line, and replacing the bulb apparently fixed the issue.

He experienced the same problem after 30 hours of running but it can be a coincidence. 

I have also found another technique that might ensure sufficient fuel supply. 

  • Squeeze the ball, barb, hose, and the fitting between the line and the tank.
  • In case of having leaks, you need to isolate them and seal them. Having no leaks requires the next step.
  • Squeeze the ball frequently and try to hear any gurgling sound. If the ball is leaked and sucking air, you will have to seal it too.

2. Stalling Issues at Low RPMs

Some of the customers have mentioned a service bulletin from Suzuki a major recall in this issue. 

Well, you can understand that there is a major difference between a major recall and a service bulletin. 

Now, let’s talk about the problem and what its solution is.

Boaters who own newer boats manufactured after 2014 are the ones who have experienced it. 

Due to maintaining the new EPA mandated ventless fuel tanks, the newer tanks vent internally. As a result, it creates a lot more vacuum for the motor in order to draw fuel.

The effect gets noticed in the low RPMs as it stalls the boat.

Possible reason

I have already told you the reason. It the new standards from EPA that recommends newer vessels to use ventless fuel tanks.

Possible fix

The solution is at the hand of the manufacturer of 350 outboard engines. Suzuki may have updated the fuel lift pump making it larger in size. 

Also, they updated the ECMs in order to make the fuel pump run lover at slow speed or lower RPMs. 

You may remember that Suzuki halted the delivery of the new 350s for about 2 weeks. They did it so that the engineers could update the motors in-house, and saved you the trouble.

So, don’t think badly of this model due to the incident which is not the fault of Suzuki.

3. Reduced Max RPM issue

One user complained that he ran his 2018 Suzuki 350 135 hours before facing the issue. 

The boat was not running over 4800 RPMs even though it is capable of providing 5300 RPMs. 

However, the only way to reach the desired max RPM was to reset the engine by Start/Stop. He also mentioned that he used 89 Octane to run it regularly. 

Now, let’s talk about the possible solution to the issue.

Possible reason

It can be a problem of clogged or jammed high-pressure fuel filter or high-pressure fuel pump. 

By hooking up a fuel pressure gauge to the system should reveal the undetected problem.

Possible fix

If you can find out that the mentioned component is the culprit, you will have to take care of it.

Other than the VST filter, you should also think about the injectors. Indeed, it is unlikely to suspect such things only after running the engine for 135 hours. 

However, the tiniest spot is capable of restricting flow under pressure. 

After taking care of the injectors, you should also replace some battery cables for a smooth connection. 

Furthermore, you should also suspect the sensors because they become faulty without any reason. Ask your dealer for a diagnostic check and find out.

What Majority of the Users Feel About Suzuki 350 Outboard?

I have seen a mixed review about the Suzuki 350 outboard.

Some say that buying this motor is a complete waste of money.

On the other hand, some argue that those who are having a good time with its service are not here. So, we are not getting positive feedback much.

However, it is true that some dealers are refusing to service 350 outboard engines. I couldn’t find any particular reason for that. 

Again, one or two customers said that they talked to some dealers and they suggested 300 instead of the latest 350 at that time. And, one should realize why they did it. 

Now, all I want to say is that it doesn’t prove anything. You should stay more focused on the common problems I have described above.

Based on that information, and reviews from real customers, one can see the real picture. No engines are without problems. 

What matters is whether you are ready to accept them and try to solve them without ruining the fun. 

Overall, it is a quiet and powerful outboard engine. People are satisfied with its performance. However, 350 can be loud above 4800 RPM.

Final Thoughts 

Over time, Suzuki has proven that they are capable of producing solid and reliable outboard engines. 

Indeed, there are some serious issues with the 350HP engine. But you should consider that the problems are not faced by all of its users.

The manufacturer has other models on the market with a better reputation. Take the suggestion of an expert, and invest in something durable.

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