1960 Evinrude 18 HP Fastwin Outboard Specs & Part Numbers
Technical Guide: 1960 Evinrude 18 HP Fastwin Outboard Motor
The 1960 Evinrude 18 HP Fastwin (Models 15032 and 15033) represents the pinnacle of mid-century American outboard engineering. Produced during the golden era of the Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), the 18 HP Fastwin was highly regarded for its perfect power-to-weight ratio, making it a favorite for fishing boats, family runabouts, and utility crafts. This comprehensive guide provides the technical specifications, maintenance procedures, and historical context needed to keep these vintage machines running reliably today.
Overview & Specifications
The 1960 Fastwin is a twin-cylinder, two-stroke outboard motor designed for versatility. It was offered in both short-shaft (15-inch, Model 15032) and long-shaft (20-inch, Model 15033) configurations. Key mechanical traits include a thermo-dynamically efficient bypass scavenging system, a modern single-line fuel pump system, and rubber-isolated mounting to reduce vibration.
| Specification | Value / Measurement |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 18 HP @ 4500 RPM |
| Cylinders | 2 (In-line, alternate firing) |
| Displacement | 22.0 cubic inches (360.5 cc) |
| Bore x Stroke | 2.50 in. x 2.25 in. (63.5 mm x 57.15 mm) |
| Fuel/Oil Ratio | 24:1 (1 quart TC-W3 2-stroke oil to 6 gallons of regular unleaded gasoline) |
| Fuel System | Single-line fuel pump (vacuum operated) with remote tank |
| Weight | 79 lbs (Manual start), 86 lbs (Electric start) |
| Ignition System | OMC Universal Magneto (Flywheel-mounted) |
Common Maintenance & Tune-up Specs
Maintaining a vintage outboard requires attention to its ignition, fuel, and cooling systems. Because these motors do not feature modern computerized engine management systems, precise manual adjustment of the points, spark plugs, and carburetor is essential for optimal performance.
Ignition System Settings
- Spark Plugs: Champion J4C (or Champion J6C for low-speed trolling use to prevent fouling).
- Spark Plug Gap: 0.030 inches (0.76 mm).
- Breaker Point Gap: 0.020 inches (0.51 mm). Ensure the points are free of oil and oxidation.
- Condenser Capacity: 0.18 to 0.22 microfarads (mfd).
Cooling System & Water Pump
The cooling system relies on a rubber impeller located inside the lower unit gearcase. It is critical to replace the impeller every 2 to 3 seasons, as dry rot and set-bend can cause cooling failure, leading to engine seizure.
- Impeller Part Number: OEM #377127 (Sierra 18-3001).
- Thermostat: Opens at 140°F (60°C). Located at the top of the cylinder head cover. Check for salt and debris accumulation around the thermostat housing.
Carburetor Tuning & Settings
The 1960 Fastwin features a dual-needle Tillotson or OMC float-feed carburetor with adjustable high-speed and low-speed fuel circuits. Initial bench-setting instructions are as follows:
- High-Speed Needle (Bottom Knob): Gently turn clockwise until seated, then back out exactly 3/4 turn.
- Slow-Speed Needle (Top Knob): Gently turn clockwise until seated, then back out exactly 1-1/2 turns.
- Note: Conduct final adjustments on the water with the motor at normal operating temperature and in gear. Turn the needles in 1/8-turn increments to find the sweet spot between lean lean-sneeze and rich bogging.
Lower Unit Lubrication
- Gearcase Oil Type: Standard marine 80W-90 Outboard Gear Lubricant (OMC HiVis equivalent). Do not use electric-shift fluid; the 1960 Fastwin is a standard mechanical-shift gearbox.
- Capacity: Fill from the bottom drain hole until fluid flows out of the top vent hole (approximately 9-11 oz). Always replace the plastic wash gaskets on the drain/fill screws to prevent water intrusion.
Notable Features & History
The Evolution of the “Fastwin”
The “Fastwin” moniker was first used by Evinrude in the late 1920s, but it was during the post-WWII boating boom that it became synonymous with rugged, mid-range family power. By 1960, the 18 HP variant had inherited the engineering advancements of OMC’s larger engines, offering a lighter-weight alternative to the bulky 25 HP and 35 HP outboards of the era. It bridged the gap between basic utility trolling motors and heavy ski-boat powerplants.
The Crucial Single-Line Fuel System
One of the most significant upgrades found on the 1960 model over its mid-1950s predecessors is the factory-integrated single-line fuel pump. Earlier OMC motors utilized a two-line pressurized fuel system, which relied on engine crankcase pressure to force fuel from a sealed tank. The pressurized tanks were prone to dangerous leaks and are difficult to find today. The 1960 Fastwin uses a vacuum-diaphragm pump powered by crankcase pulses, allowing the use of standard, modern single-line portable fuel tanks.
“Super Quiet” Power
Evinrude’s marketing in 1960 focused heavily on the motor’s quiet operation. This was achieved through a complete rubber isolation system. The powerhead is suspended on rubber mounts inside the lower housing, and the fiberglass cowling features a tight rubber seal. This design prevents engine vibration from transferring to the boat hull, which would otherwise act as a soundboard, drastically reducing noise levels for passengers.
A Legacy of Interchangeability
For modern restorers and vintage outboard collectors, the 1960 Evinrude 18 HP is highly desirable due to parts availability. OMC used the “Universal Magneto” design from the early 1950s through the late 1970s. Coils, points, condensers, and carb rebuild kits remain readily available and inexpensive. This cross-decade compatibility ensures that keeping a 1960 Fastwin running on the water is as practical as it is rewarding.