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Hello,<br /> I have a 63' 30hp west bend motor an the quy I bought it from said it would run 50:1, but after searching on here I'm pretty sure that is incorrect and would like to know if anyone can help me with the correct mixture. Thanks.
I can't find a reference for the fuelil ratio for that engine. I'm sure someone has the manual for it on this forum, though. Until you find out for sure, you're probably safest running it at 24:1. It won't harm the engine at all, but will run a little smokey. <br /><br />If you later find that 50:1 is the right mixture, you can switch, with no harm done. Even then, though, I'd use a 32:1 ratio, just to add a little extra lubricant to an old engine.
The West bend Manual recommends 24:1 for heavy duty use, so I would put up with the extra smoke and make sure the bearings are getting enough oil. West bend went from bushings to needle bearings sometime around 1964. If you use 50:1 in a pre-needle bearing engine it'll chew out the bushings from running too dry.
The 63 model should have needle bearings. With modern oil at 50:1 it should be fine unless there is something wrong with the engine. Heavy duty use is usually defined as being used in a commercial application for more than 500 hours per year. While I don't know the past history of this engine it is unlikely that it has had much use...Or it would have given up long ago. On the other hand, running double oil will only result in plug fouling and extra carbon build up. Both of which can be taken care of as they occur. Due to the age of the engine I wouldn't depend on it at all and running it at 24:1 as byacey suggested is probably good advice.
I have a 1963 35HP WestBend motor that I have had since new. I run 1 quart of Outboard oil per 6 gallons of gasoline ( 24/1 ratio ). It must be correct because it is still running strong as new after 40 years of service. This engine probably has over 20,000 hours and has never been into. All Origonal.