60' Speedliner with 56' 30Hp Bigtwin

Hi Guys, New and just jumping in here. I am bringing my baby back to life after walking around her in my shop for several years. 1960 15' mahogany Speedliner with a just found 56' 30 Hp Johnson. The motor is a real sweetie, very clean with original unfaded paint and what appears to be an original 12v starting system (small dia. starter) I thought 56 models were originally 6v (any input here?) I have also installed a Mikuni pulse fuel pump and am in the process of inspecting and re-sealing gearcase, going thru waterpump etc. I have had her running in a test tank but it was very difficult to prime and get fuel to the carb pumping on the bulb. I connected the single hose fuel supply line directly to the Mikuni pump, and wonder if not having the OMC fitting at the engine is the culprit. I was able to prime it with a gravity fed tank. I will try to post some photos soon. I appreciate your input.

Thanks!
Speedliner

Re: 60' Speedliner with 56' 30Hp Bigtwin

If the starter has a metal clamp band around the bottom end, it is 6V. The fuel connector is only there for convenience. The gas doesn't care if it is there or not.

Re: 60' Speedliner with 56' 30Hp Bigtwin

Yes, it has the clamp at bottom. A lot of info on this site. Now wondering what is up with the postings stating that 3" dia starter is 12V ? Also I had suspected the smaller orfice in the quick connector may have caused a slight restriction that assisted priming. Yes, I have the brand spanking new primer bulb with check valves oriented in the proper direction, any ideas? it will not prime. I have been messing with outboards for longer than I want to remember and never had this issue. But I have, ocassionally been acused of being from "Dumbascus" so feel free....

Thanks

Re: 60' Speedliner with 56' 30Hp Bigtwin

This is what the original 6v starter looks like.

Re: 60' Speedliner with 56' 30Hp Bigtwin

The 1956 6 volt starter is about the same diameter as the later 12 volt models. The 1955 starter was a much fatter one. 1956 was Autolite MDH 4001M. I've successfully installed a 12 volt starter (from a 1957) into the 6 volt starter bracket by drilling/elongating the bolt holes slightly.

Re: 60' Speedliner with 56' 30Hp Bigtwin

Thanks Guys. I assume this 56' RD 18 factory 6V system does not have any charging provisions, and do you use the elec choke button (which I will install) also kill the engine? Nice wiring diagrams on this forum by the way.

Thanks

Re: 60' Speedliner with 56' 30Hp Bigtwin

No charge system on that motor. Motor didn't have a kill switch - just choke to kill, or you can add a kill circuit easily. Just run two wires from the points to a kill button (normally open switch) or to a later key ignition with the two "M" terminals.

Re: 60' Speedliner with 56' 30Hp Bigtwin

I seen the post and thought it was a "60 foot" boat with a 30 hp motor... !

Re: 60' Speedliner with 56' 30Hp Bigtwin

I know this is the JohnnyRude Forum but I sure would like to see a picture of that classic boat!

Re: 60' Speedliner with 56' 30Hp Bigtwin

Here you go...60 Speedliner and a 65 Glasspar sure miss her, I was told that max. fleet size is 2.
Take care...

Re: 60' Speedliner with 56' 30Hp Bigtwin

Thanks for the pix! Two great old boats that obviously are loved. I'm just an old geezer who likes old stuff when craftsmanship was involved and things were built to last. Good luck with your project.

Re: 60' Speedliner with 56' 30Hp Bigtwin

Re: 56' 30 Hp RD18.The air silencer housing has a metal screen (tube) wrapped with a fiberglass insulation material for a filter. it is original and is deteriorating. considering looking for a similar size foam replacement or doing away with it all together as newer outboards don't have a filter. Any thoughts?
Thanks.