Evinrude and Suzuki are using NMEA compliant data streams, and offer adapter cables to connect the engine computer to a NMEA2000 network to share the data.
Connecting directly to a NMEA 2000 compliant device, without a network, may not work properly. Cutting off the connectors eliminates the ability of a dealer to connect their computer to the engine for diagnostics. The proprietary software is more robust than just the NMEA2000 data. Removing the connectors may also void the warranty.
The Yamaha was not using NMEA2000 data on their Command Link, and a Maretron adapter from the Command Link Network to the NMEA2000 network is required. The adapter keeps the two netowrks seperate, but allows the NMEA2000 network to "listen" to the Command Link Network data.
The new Yamaha Command Link 2 (or whatever they are calling it) does use a NMEA 2000 backbone from what I've seen.
Keeping on top of the engine networking systems drives our parts people batty, as it's just not something they work with much. Coming from the marine electronics side, I'm more adept at understanding the system, but even I get it wrong once in awhile. :shock: