18 hp fastwin "shorting switch"

kaashlock

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Dec 31, 2006
Messages
46
I have a 1968 18 hp model 18820 Fastwin. It has a hole in the front lower portion of the cowl. Information I find says this is a shorting switch. Is this just a kill switch? If so, does it need to be there. Mine is gone.
Kenny
 

mchin

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Jun 15, 2007
Messages
195
Re: 18 hp fastwin "shorting switch"

I've had several of these, but not this particular year, On mine, the hole was in the belly pan part of the cowl, was about 1.5 inches or so, and had a push button kill switch. Which was often disconnected, and as long as the wires coming out from under the mag plate was not grounding out, the engine ran fine. I ended up on one of them, adding a modern kill switch with a tether. much safer in my opinion. So ya don't need one, but the 18's are fast motors and you'll be safer if you put one in and use it.
 

kaashlock

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Dec 31, 2006
Messages
46
Re: 18 hp fastwin "shorting switch"

Never thought of that!! Really great idea for safety.
Thanks,
Kenny
 

mudslinging79

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jun 18, 2008
Messages
374
Re: 18 hp fastwin "shorting switch"

michin, where did you get the tether kill switch? im looking for one for the motor on my zodiac, afraid ill end up bouncing out of the boat one of these days...
 

mudslinging79

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jun 18, 2008
Messages
374
Re: 18 hp fastwin "shorting switch"

been looking there, but dont know which one, as there are a few universal styles. dont want to get the wrong one...
 
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