How much difference is there between a 15hp fastwin and the 18hp?

[Kelpy]

and please don't say 3hp!

I'm just wondering if it would be worth my time to pick up a project 18hp when I already have a running 15hp? After my 15 rebuild and now that its working I feel a lot better about these motors. Funny how that works. It has been reliable for the last 4 trips out and now I think that maybe the 15hp might be a touch to small for my needs and 3 more hp might just be the perfect fit.

On a side note, what is a middle 50's 18 electric start worth? It will most likely need a carb kit, ignition system replacement, and a new impeller. The guy has it listed for 400 but said he would take 250. . . Fair price? or haggle some more?

Thanks, Kelpy

 

[HighTrim]

Re: How much difference is there between a 15hp fastwin and the 18hp?

The 18s in my opinion are the best pound for pound motors. I started collecting the Big Twins, but have quite a stable of 18s now too.

Do you get the harness, solenoid box, key/choke plate, etc... with the deal?

Condition is everything here. Have a pic?

 

[Kelpy]

Re: How much difference is there between a 15hp fastwin and the 18hp?



This is all i have to go on. It says that it hasn't been run in 2 years but it ran good then. He also says it has good compression (but who doesn't say that). I will test that stuff when I get there. . .

I'm just assuming that it needs a whole new ignition system, a carb rebuild and a new impeller. . .

I don't know anything about these electric start motors. What is the solenoid box, etc? I was just planning on using the pull cord. . .

Thanks for the reply!

 

[kbait]

Re: How much difference is there between a 15hp fastwin and the 18hp?

If it has the plug-in wiring harness, solenoid box that mounts to the transom of boat, and key plate/choke button and is all in good condition, you may have a find. Those items are rather hard to come by.. especially the plug-in harness.

I'd consider it a parts motor if he can't/won't run it for you. Spend accordingly..

Those 15's were pretty strong.. probably not much of a jump to an 18. If you can get it for a good price and make it a runner w/working electric start, it'll likely sell well if you decide to go that route. Good luck!

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: How much difference is there between a 15hp fastwin and the 18hp?

The primary difference between a '56 15 and a '57 18 are the extra cubes. The 18 has a larger diameter cylinder bore, making it approximately 22 cubic inches, vs. the approx. 20 cubes of the 15... All of the Fastwin series are worthy candidates for revitalization...

 

[HighTrim]

Re: How much difference is there between a 15hp fastwin and the 18hp?

Looks nice, I just restored the same motor. Ill post some pics of the harness and all.

 

[kfa4303]

Re: How much difference is there between a 15hp fastwin and the 18hp?

I agree. I love the FD/E models. I have a '66 20 hp, which is essentially just the much loved 18 hp. Probably one of, if not the best pound-for-pound motors ever made. Mine will push me along at +/- 20 mph in my 14' semi-V hull tinny. Here's a great link that may help you decide. If it has good compression, you can fix all the rest pretty cheap and easy (<$100).

http://www.leeroysramblings.com/johnson_E-FD_15_18hp.html