Bought a 1960 Evinrude Fastwin 18hp without seeing it Run, What Now?

[gills]

I just bought a 1960 Evinrude 18hp Fastwin, and i need some help. What do I need to check on this beast to get it water ready?

The guy selling it had never used it and didnt know anything about it except it hadnt been run in at least 6 years. It appears very clean and has 15032 on the plate on the side. No gas tank, so i took a gamble and bought it without seeing it run. I checked the compression, and both were right at 95 psi. Seemed a little low to me, but figured at least they were consistant. This is my first outboard, but have worked on motorcycle and inboard boat engines before. I figure i will have to get the manual to learn how to get to the impeller, unless its out there on the web.

The season is right around the corner, so I wanted to give it a once over and hope she runs. THANKS.

 

[bktheking]

Re: Bought a 1960 Evinrude Fastwin 18hp without seeing it Run, What Now?

95 is beyond awesome for the year. Check for good spark on both cylinders. Do a carb clean on it and fire it up. If it runs well do the impeller. If it isn't pumping water shut it down quick. Just don't buy an impeller if it;s not a keeper. Change lower unit oil as well.

 

[1946Zephyr]

Re: Bought a 1960 Evinrude Fastwin 18hp without seeing it Run, What Now?

Well, I think you'll be safe with this motor. These are excellent motors and if it's in clean condition, then it's likely it will give you many years of great service. The fact that your compression reading are the same on both cylinders, is a very good sign. If you make sure the ignition system is in good condition and there is no water intrusion in the gearfoot, then you should be good to go. Your's is most likely a single line tank, which is easily obtainable just about anywhere that has marine parts. Post a want ad on Craigs list though and you'll probably find one cheap. I have a 1957 18hp myself and I was able to get the old twin line tank for it, for ten bucks. Pretty darned good, especially when they normally sell for over 50. Last week, I bought two single line tanks from a fella for 10 bucks apiece and come to find out, he also had a part I needed for my old 18.