OMC 279150 Recoil Starter

( Brand: Omc ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 279150 ), ( Part Type: Hp Recoil Starter ), ( Country Of Manufacture: United States ), ( Motor Engine Type: Johnson Evinrude ), ( Donor Motor: 18802a )

Review OMC Evinrude Johnson Hp Recoil Starter Year Warranty fits 1962–2018

The **OMC 279150 / 278331 Evinrude Johnson 18 Horsepower Recoil-Start Outboard Motor** from the classic 1962 1968 production era represents a rare and highly sought-after piece of boating history, blending timeless engineering with the rugged charm of mid-century marine power. This iconic 18 HP outboard, originally manufactured under the legendary Evinrude and Johnson brands both synonymous with innovation in the golden age of small-engine performance offers a perfect blend of simplicity and reliability for vintage boat enthusiasts, collectors, and those seeking a nostalgic yet functional power source for classic runabouts, skiffs, or small fishing boats. With its distinctive cast-aluminum cowling, polished chrome accents, and the unmistakable mechanical elegance of a pre-1970s outboard, this motor exudes a sense of craftsmanship that was unmatched in its time. The **recoil-start mechanism**, a hallmark of early Evinrude-Johnson designs, provides a satisfyingly manual way to fire up the engine, adding to its vintage appeal while ensuring ease of use for modern operators who appreciate the tactile feel of a well-built machine.

Under the hood, this 18 HP outboard features a **two-stroke, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine** with a displacement of approximately 108 cubic inches, delivering smooth, dependable power for cruising, trolling, or light fishing applications. The motor s compact yet sturdy design makes it ideal for smaller boats, where space and weight are critical factors, while its robust construction ensures durability even in demanding conditions. The **direct-drive propeller system** common in this era eliminates the need for a transmission, simplifying maintenance and enhancing reliability, though it may require slightly more effort for high-speed maneuvering compared to modern outboards. The **chrome-plated exhaust system** and polished brass components not only contribute to the motor s classic aesthetic but also reflect the attention to detail that defined OMC s reputation for quality during this period.

For collectors and restorers, the **279150 / 278331** holds particular significance as part of a transitional era in outboard motor history, bridging the gap between the early Evinrude models and the later, more refined Johnson designs. The **serial number range** (typically found on the cowling or engine block) can help authenticate its vintage status, with numbers from the early 1960s often being the most desirable due to their rarity and historical value. While these motors were not designed for modern performance standards, their **timeless mechanical simplicity** makes them a joy to work on, offering a hands-on experience that appeals to DIY enthusiasts and mechanics alike. Whether used as a functional power source for a restored 1960s-era boat or as a centerpiece in a marine museum, this outboard embodies the spirit of an era when boating was about connection to the water, not just speed or technology.

Potential owners should note that while these motors are celebrated for their charm, they may require **regular maintenance** to keep them running smoothly, including fresh fuel, proper lubrication, and occasional adjustments to the carburetion and ignition systems. However, for those willing to invest time in care, the reward is a motor that not only powers a boat but also serves as a tangible link to the golden age of American boating. Whether you re a purist seeking the unmistakable growl of a vintage Evinrude-Johnson or a modern boater looking to add a touch of nostalgia to their watercraft, this **18 HP recoil-start outboard** from 1962 1968 stands as a testament to a time when engineering and elegance were inseparable.

### **Pros and Cons of Buying a 1962-1968 OMC/Evinrude/Johnson 18 HP Recoil Starter Outboard Motor**

#### **Pros**

1. **Classic Vintage Appeal** These motors are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts for their historical significance, especially from the early 1960s. They represent an era of simple, well-engineered outboard design before modern electronics and complex fuel systems.

2. **Reliability (When Properly Maintained)** Many of these motors were built to last with basic mechanical components. If well-preserved, they can still provide dependable power for smaller boats, especially in calm waters.

3. **Lower Cost of Purchase** Compared to modern outboards, these vintage motors are relatively inexpensive, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers, especially if they are in good condition.

4. **Simplicity for Restoration Projects** For those with mechanical skills, restoring or rebuilding one of these motors can be a rewarding DIY project. Parts are often available from specialty vendors or through salvage yards.

5. **Nostalgia and Collectibility** If you enjoy classic boating or have an interest in automotive history, owning one of these motors can be a nostalgic or investment-worthy piece, especially if it s rare or well-documented.

6. **Potential for Customization** Some owners modify these motors for aesthetic or performance reasons, such as repainting, installing vintage-style gauges, or even converting them to run on alternative fuels.

7. **Lower Operating Costs (Compared to Modern Motors)** Since these motors are simple, fuel efficiency and maintenance costs can be lower than those of modern outboards, though this depends heavily on condition.

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#### **Cons**

1. **Lack of Modern Technology** These motors lack features like electronic ignition, fuel injection, or digital diagnostics. Starting can be unreliable, especially if the recoil starter is worn out or the carburetion is out of adjustment.

2. **Poor Fuel Efficiency** Older two-stroke engines (assuming this is a two-stroke model) are notoriously inefficient, consuming fuel at a much higher rate than modern four-stroke outboards.

3. **Environmental Concerns** Two-stroke outboards (common in this era) produce significant oil and fuel emissions, which are harmful to water quality and restricted in many areas. Some regions ban or heavily regulate their use.

4. **Maintenance Challenges** Finding replacement parts can be difficult, and labor-intensive repairs (such as rebuilding the engine or replacing the recoil starter) may require specialized knowledge or tools.

- **Carburetor fouling** (due to old fuel or improper storage).

- **Worn-out recoil starters** (which can be brittle or broken).

- **Rust and corrosion** (especially in saltwater environments).

- **Leaking seals or gaskets** (leading to oil or water contamination).

- **Overheating** (due to poor cooling systems compared to modern designs).

6. **Limited Power for Modern Use** An 18 HP motor is very weak by today s standards, making it suitable only for small boats (e.g., dinghies, canoes, or very light bass boats). It may struggle in rough water or with heavier loads.

7. **Safety Risks** Older motors lack modern safety features such as easy-access kill switches, reliable ignition cutoffs, or modern propulsion systems. They can also be prone to sudden stalling or failure while in use.

8. **Resale Value is Limited** Unlike some classic cars, vintage outboards do not hold significant resale value unless they are in pristine condition or part of a rare model. Most buyers are collectors or hobbyists, not investors.

9. **Legal Restrictions** In many areas, older two-stroke outboards are banned or restricted due to environmental regulations. Check local boating laws before purchasing.

10. **Time-Consuming Operation** Starting, adjusting, and maintaining these motors often require more effort than modern push-button or remote-start outboards.

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### **Conclusion**

Buying a 1962-1968 OMC/Evinrude/Johnson 18 HP recoil starter outboard can be a rewarding experience for collectors, DIY enthusiasts, or those who appreciate vintage machinery. However, it is not a practical choice for most modern boating needs due to reliability issues, environmental concerns, and limited power. If you are considering this purchase, it should be for sentimental value, a restoration project, or as a secondary motor for very light-duty use in a controlled environment (e.g., a calm lake with no environmental restrictions).

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### **Recommendation**

- You are a collector or have a strong interest in vintage boating history.

- You are willing to invest time and effort into restoring or maintaining the motor.

- You plan to use it in a small, lightweight boat in a non-restricted area (e.g., a private pond or a lake with lenient regulations).

- You enjoy mechanical projects and are prepared for potential challenges.

- You need a reliable, high-performance motor for regular boating.

- You are concerned about environmental regulations or fuel efficiency.

- You lack mechanical skills or access to specialized tools for repairs.

- You expect the motor to start and run consistently without maintenance.

- If you want a small, reliable motor for light use, consider a modern **4-6 HP electric outboard** or a **used 2000s-era 25-50 HP two-stroke** (if environmental laws allow).

- For a balance of power and vintage charm, look for a **restored 1970s-1980s outboard** with modern ignition and fuel systems.

Ultimately, this motor is best suited for enthusiasts rather than practical boaters. Always inspect it thoroughly (or have a professional do so) before purchasing, and be prepared for potential repairs.

Details:

Buyer pays return shipping. Please verify by model or serial number before purchasing. Altman, IL 62411.: Recoil / rewind starter assembly.

Assembly: 279150 supersedes 278331. WARRANTY: 1 Year Working Warranty. Johnson and Evinrude. The item you are looking at is guaranteed to be described, pictured, and cross-referenced correctly.

Removed from a 1968 Evinrude Fast win 18 HP, model 18802A.

part #: 279150 prices

• $80.00-$99.95

specifications ouboaen:

• for makes: Evinrude, Johnson, Omc
• for years: 1962-2018
• brand: Omc
• mpn: 279150
• part type: Hp Recoil Starter
• country of manufacture: United States
• motor engine type: Johnson Evinrude
• donor motor: 18802a

offer ouboaen:

• quantity: 1
• started: April 15, 2026
• availability: In Stock
• options: Ship-to-home
• sold: 0

shipping ouboaen:

• transit: 2-6 Days
• type: Fixed
• class: Standard
• service: Standard
• cost: $0.00

returns ouboaen:

• policy: No Returns

general ouboaen:

• Boat Parts > Outboard Engines Components > Other
• condition: Used

seller ouboaen:

• # reviews: 34699
• city: Altamont, Illinois
• rating: 99.9%

payments ouboaen:

• other
• credit card: Diners-club
• wallet: Paypal

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