EPA has determined that gasoline marine engines are one of the largest average contributors of HC emissions. Of all categories of nonroad engines, recreational marine engines contribute the second highest average level of HC exhaust emissions. Only small gasoline engines used in lawn and garden equipment emit higher levels on average.

The following engines are excluded from specific spark ignited marine engine regulations. This does not mean they are not regulated, but that they are regulated under different programs. Marine spark ignited engines are regulated under 40 CFR part 1045.

• Auxiliary engines. The exhaust emission standards of part 1045 do not apply to auxiliary marine engines. See 40 CFR part 90, 1048, or 1054 for the exhaust emission standards that apply. Evaporative emission standards apply as specified in §1045.112.
• Hobby engines and vessels. Part 1045 does not apply with respect to reduced-scale models of vessels that are not capable of transporting a person.
• Large natural gas engines. Propulsion marine engines powered by natural gas with maximum engine power at or above 250 kW are deemed to be compression-ignition engines. These engines are therefore subject to all the requirements of 40 CFR part 1042 instead of part 1045 even if they would otherwise meet the definition of “spark-ignition” in §1045.801

Gasoline boats and personal watercraft generally fall into this category. ECO offers streamlined, turnkey management of certification, and ongoing compliance paperwork for these types of engines. Our staff employ proprietary tools to develop solutions for you as the manufacturer.