1964 18hp. Fastwin

Just picked up this '64 Fastwin over the weekend. I went to drop the lower the end for an impeller change and noticed this small hole. I'm assuming a small weld will seal it back up? Or,is this supposed to be there? I'm thinking not because I saw oil coming out of it after running it in a trashcan. Stupid question? So far I see Sierra has aftermarket parts for this engine. Are there other sources? Thanks all in advance!
[/IMG]

Re: 1964 18hp. Fastwin

I beleave that is the drain for the exhaust housing allowing water to drain from the lower unit when out of the water. The oil you saw is probably unburn't oil in the exhaust housing. Sierra, mallory and OEM parts should be available for your engine.

Re: 1964 18hp. Fastwin

It was a considerable amount of oil and water (mostly oil) that continously kept seeping out after the engine was shut off. The oil was greenish in color. This was the first time this engine has ran since 1985. Would a repair manual describe the function of this hole? Thanks

Re: 1964 18hp. Fastwin

It's a drain hole. That is how the water around your water pump drains out so the motor can be stored in below freezing temperature. You are describing unburnt fuels mixed with water from your exhaust. It will seep out of there. When in the water it drops in the lake, when you take it out it can seep out for days. Annoying yes, but I just put a little pan under it for a few days. It does this more when you are running it in a barrel for any length of time or when you fog them through the carburetor.

I would leave the hole alone. Remember to clean it out when you drop the lower unit for your impeller replacements and that is about all you can do.

Re: 1964 18hp. Fastwin

Thanks guys! What repair manual would you suggest? I also would like to take this into saltwater occasionally. I know I read somewhere that engines of this age were not made with alloys suitable for the ocean. I do plan to flush with freshwater after I'm done. Or....should I not bother with saltwater? Thanks again!

Re: 1964 18hp. Fastwin

It is your motor and you can do whatever you want with it. But there is no denying it won't last as long if you run it in salt. That goes for new motors also, in spite of what people will tell you. Your 1964 motor would have been scrapped 40 years ago if on a steady salt water diet.

Yes, flushing it in a fresh water barrel will help, but don't be deceived. It only delays the end.

Plenty of salt water here on the Gulf coast of Florida.

As for that drain hole, you have received good advice. It belongs there and is supposed to weep. That oil that you put in the gas has to go somewhere. Guess where?? Running it in a barrel makes it accumulate and looks a lot worse than it is.