Gale Model 35DE11B Outboard Motor Specs & Overview

Overview: The Gale 35DE11B 35 HP Outboard Motor

Gale Products, a division of Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), produced reliable and budget-friendly outboard motors that shared much of their core architecture with contemporary Johnson and Evinrude models. Brandings like Gale Buccaneer were popular choices for boaters seeking solid OMC engineering without the premium price tag. The Gale 35DE11B features a robust 40.5 cubic inch big-bore twin cylinder powerhead rated at 35 horsepower, delivering excellent torque for mid-sized vintage runabouts, utility boats, and fishing craft.

Equipped with electric starting capability, an automotive-style electric choke, and full Forward-Neutral-Reverse gear shifting, this 35 HP model represents the peak of utility outboard convenience from the late 1950s era. Because it shares mechanical legacy with OMC 35 HP siblings, restoring and maintaining a Gale 35DE model is a rewarding project with good aftermarket parts support.

Technical Specifications

• Model: 35DE11B
• Horsepower: 35.0 HP @ 4,500 RPM (O.B.C. Certified)
• Recommended Operating Range: 4000 – 5000 RPM
• Cylinders: 2 cylinders
• Bore & Stroke: 3-1/16″ x 2-3/4″
• Displacement: 40.5 cubic inches
• Powerhead Type: 2-cycle, 2-port, alternate firing
• Gear Ratio: 12:21
• Gearshift Control: Forward – Neutral – Reverse
• Propeller: 3-blade, 10-3/8″ diameter x 13-1/4″ pitch
• Cooling System: Positive and centrifugal synthetic rubber rotor pump
• Ignition System: Built-in flywheel magneto
• Carburetor: Concentric-type float with fast/slow speed adjustable needle valves and electric choke
• Speed Control: Synchronized spark and throttle via lever control
• Starter: Electric starting with automatic recoil/rewind backup
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 6-gallon separate pressure/remote tank
• Running Time: Approximately 1.5 to 1.75 hours on a full tank
• Weight: 134 lbs (dry, less tank)
• Recommended Transom Height: 15″ (standard short shaft)

Fuel Mixture & Oil Ratios

Because this era of OMC/Gale engines uses a combination of bronze bushing and needle bearings, a 24:1 fuel-to-oil mixture is recommended. Mix 1 quart (32 oz) of high-quality TC-W3 two-stroke marine oil to 6 gallons of regular unleaded fuel.

Pro Tip: Modern pump gasoline often contains ethanol, which can degrade vintage rubber fuel lines and fuel pump diaphragms. Use non-ethanol fuel whenever possible, and always add a marine fuel stabilizer during storage.

Maintenance & Restoration Guidance

• Cooling System: The synthetic rubber rotor (impeller) must be replaced prior to putting a newly acquired motor into service. Running an old, hardened, or degraded impeller can quickly lead to powerhead overheating. Ensure the water intake screens on the lower unit remain clear of debris.
• Carburetor Service: Unlike modern fixed-jet carburetors, this engine features adjustable high-speed and low-speed needle valves. Rebuilding the concentric float carburetor involves installing fresh gaskets and setting the needles. Start by turning the high-speed needle 3/4 turn open from lightly seated, and the low-speed needle 1.5 turns open, then fine-tune under load on the water.
• Ignition Tune-Up: The flywheel magneto houses two ignition coils, dual breaker points, and condensers. Inspect the ignition coils for cracking, a common issue with vintage OMC magnetos. Clean or replace the contact points, gapping them precisely to .020 inches.
• Lower Unit & Gearbox: Change the lower unit gear oil annually using marine-grade hypoid gear lube. Always replace the drain and fill plug washer seals to prevent water intrusion into the 12:21 gear housing.
• Electrical System: Ensure all wiring harnesses for the electric starter and electric choke solenoid are free of corrosion. Maintain clean ground connections to ensure strong cranking amps when starting.