Problem with fastwin 18HP

[Fastwin18]

I recently purchased a 18hp fastwin I believe its a 1958. The serial # is 15024-50848. The engine was used as a spare motor on a house boat and in 1973 was completely overhauled and put away. The engine looks like new condition. The engine was never started after the overhaul, the plugs and points are as new, I had to replace the cylinder coils. When I tried to start (pull start) the motor it would only backfire through the exhaust. I switched the plug wires and when I attempted to start the engine it almost ripped my arm off. Just as it is about to fire up it kicks back and stops you dead. The plug gap is at 30 and the point gap is at 20. The points open at top dead centre. Everything seems right but I can't figure out why it kicks like it does. Please help my arm can't take any more. Thanks....Fastwin18.

 

[wbeaton]

Re: Problem with fastwin 18HP

Your motor is a 1958. Out of curiousity, do you have a fuel pump or a pressure tank?

On to your question...First, put the plug wires on the right cylinders. Second, did you torque the flywheel nut to the proper spec when you had it off? If not it may have sheared the woodruff key and is causing the problem you are having.

 

[F_R]

Re: Problem with fastwin 18HP

wbeaton probably has nailed it. Flywheel key. Plus wires crossed.

 

[Fastwin18]

Re: Problem with fastwin 18HP

Thanks for the proper year. Yes the wires are on right and yes the flywheel was torgued correctly and woodruff key is in good condition. No problems there. I appreciate your input. It cranks freely nothing is broken but when it attempts to start it kicks back. Anything else would be appreciated as well. Thanks..wbeaton.

 

[Fastwin18]

Re: Problem with fastwin 18HP

Sorry I meant to add I have a tank and it is also in next to new shape. Pump works very well...Fastwin18

 

[F_R]

Re: Problem with fastwin 18HP

Well it has to be something along that line. It sure is firing out of time, and there are no adjustments other than throttle position, and points setting. How about points cam upside down? Or coil wires to the wrong set of points? Out of guesses, here.

 

[Fastwin18]

Re: Problem with fastwin 18HP

I'll double check the point setting and also the throttle position and coil wires. Thanks imported_F_R for your help I figure the same. There isn't much else to play with...Fuel/Spark...fastwin18