Firestone 3.6 HP, 10-A-1, does neutral exist?

[sashko1]

Hi all,

yesterday I was lucky(?) to acquire 2 older Firestone outboards:
1) 16 HP, 4200 RPM, Stock # 10-A-114, code 133-6-1965, S/N 1965-2492.
2) 3.6 HP, 4000 RPM, Stock # 10-A-1, code 133-8-486, S/N 486-3874186.

I did some research yesterday evening about both of them. Have just a general understanding of the motors but no specifics.

I'm very eager to find out the following in the order of importance to me:
1. Does 10-A-1 have a NEUTRAL? Or is it always engaged in a gear, so that when it fires up the prop will be engaged? How does that work when you are starting the motor in a boat (if it doesn't have NEUTRAL)?

2. Where can I get parts (if I need) for those oldies?

3. Are they good motors? i.e. Are they considered dependable / worthy?

4. Is there any value (monetary) to them? I do not like to reference eBay for those type of questions - too many dreamers out there :-)))))


Overall I do like the way they look as I got them. They seem to be pretty nicely preserved. I haven't verified the actual compression value on the cyls but it is surely strong - I can hear a nice suck-in through reeds(?) as well as I cannot hold my thumb on a compression cycle even a bit (I have a strong grip, trust me).

Started my cleaning of a smaller one yesterday, planning to resurrect it tonight! Can hardly wait! I almost made my mind to take a day off from work for that ;-))))

I will await for any of your responses to my questions up above.

Thank you.

[tmcalavy]

Both are good motors, the 3.6 is direct drive...point the boat to open water and then start it, spin it around to get reverse. Both were made by Scott-Atwater and parts are still available through Scott collectors. Value depends on the buyer...I'd pay about $125 for both if they both ran.

[steelespike]

As suggested aim the boat outward hold it at the dock and simply release and let it go when it starts. If its running good it may start at reduced throttle.
If too crowded row out a little an assistant can keep the boat on course as you crank .,
A couple of pulls with a good running motor.
There is no 360 degree reverse.