Gale Model 5S13 Outboard Motor Specs & Overview

The Gale Model 5S13 (along with its companion 5S14) is a classic 5.0 horsepower outboard motor produced during the golden era of mid-century recreational boating. Gale Products was a prominent division of the Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC). Acting as OMC’s budget-friendly yet robust brand, Gale manufactured motors both under its own name and as private-label offerings (such as Sea King for Montgomery Ward and Buccaneer). The 5S13 represents the epitome of OMC’s simple, reliable twin-cylinder engineering, offering smooth alternate-firing operation in a compact package.

Key Technical Specifications

• Model: Gale 5S13
• Horsepower: 5.0 HP @ 4,000 RPM (O.B.C. Certified)
• Full Throttle Operating Range: 3,500 – 4,500 RPM
• Powerhead Type: 2-cycle, 2-port, alternate firing twin cylinder
• Displacement: 8.84 cubic inches
• Bore & Stroke: 1-15/16″ Bore x 1-1/2″ Stroke
• Weight: 45.6 lbs
• Cooling System: Positive displacement synthetic rubber rotor (impeller)
• Ignition System: Built-in flywheel magneto
• Carburetor: Single jet, variable venturi with offset float
• Speed Control: Single lever synchronized throttle and spark advance
• Gearshift / Steering: 360° full-reversing pivot control
• Gear Ratio: 13:20
• Propeller: 2-blade, 7-1/2″ diameter x 7-1/4″ pitch
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 0.8-gallon integral tank (Approx. 1-hour run time)
• Recommended Transom Height: 15 inches (Standard short shaft)

Maintenance & Fuel Recommendations

Keeping a vintage Gale 5S13 running smoothly requires attention to classic OMC maintenance practices. Because this engine relies on mid-century bearing designs, using the correct fuel-to-oil mix ratio is vital for powerhead longevity.

• 2-Stroke Fuel/Oil Mix: Mix fresh, non-ethanol gasoline with high-quality TC-W3 marine two-stroke oil at a 24:1 ratio (1/2 pint of oil per 1 gallon of gas). Avoid modern thin fuel mixtures like 50:1, as vintage bushings require the extra oil lubrication provided by the heavier 24:1 mix.
• Cooling System Care: The cooling system uses a positive displacement synthetic rubber rotor. Never run the motor out of water, even for a few seconds, as running dry will quickly destroy the rubber rotor. If bringing a motor out of long-term storage, service or replace the water pump impeller before launching.
• Ignition Service: The built-in flywheel magneto houses standard dual ignition coils, points, and condensers. Coils from this era are notorious for cracking over time due to age and heat. Inspect the magneto under the flywheel; if cracked, modern universal OMC ignition coils fit as direct replacements. Set point gaps to 0.020 inches.
• Carburetor & Fuel System: The variable venturi carburetor with an offset float setup is sensitive to modern ethanol fuels, which can degrade old cork floats and rubber seals. Clean the carburetor thoroughly, replace worn gaskets, and use fuel stabilizer if non-ethanol fuel is unavailable.
• Lower Unit Lubrication: Check the gearcase lubricant regularly for water intrusion. Refill the lower unit with quality marine gear lubricant (or standard grease if original seals permit) through the bottom drain plug to purge out air pockets.