Villiers Outboard

gandy

gandy

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Hi,

We've been given an outboard by a neighbour. For some reason I was expecting a Seagull, but its actually a Villiers "Ocean Outboard 4", air cooled four stroke. The prop's about the same size as our Merc 2.2. It was reported to be have been in running order before being left in the shed for years.

Anyone know anything about these?

I might try to start it this evening.

Tony S
 
I had a heap of Villiers products in my youth, and Dad used to bring home an eclectic mix of outboards to service or rebuild in the sixties. As a nosy brat, I used to look up all of these and more. I cant remember seeing a Villiers outboard, and a 4 stroke would make it a real rarity, as I thought they only made stuff derived from their takeover of J.A.P. which were rather larger.
There is a reference to Villiers outboards, but it suggests that only the magneto is actually Villiers.
Here is their history website - they may be interested in seeing what you have got.

Can we have some piccies please?

The National Motorboat Museum at Wat Tyler Park Basildon may be able to help further.

Villiers History

More Villiers
 
I had the missfortune of owning one of these engines 25 years ago! When it ran, it was quite a powerful little engine, bur very noisy, the exaust used to fall off, and the carb shook to bits. I found the best use for it was holding down long lines at night. The main dealers were based in Southport lancs, and have probably died like the engine did /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif
 
If you get it going this evening you don,t have to let us know,wee,l hear it from here. Then the "Mushroom Cloud "will confirm /forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif. Interesting though, had a lot to do withVilliers in the 60,s. The only 4 stoke I new of was powering a lawnmower I would also like to see a picture, thanks
 
I have a little single cylinder JAP air cooled. Dates from the 50's I believe. I also have the manual which calls it a SeaBee or similar. Its very noisy, makes the hand all numb. In fact I've stopped using it for my sanity ! Saying that, its a lovely piece of history/antique that i'm not sure what to do with !
 
Yes, they are four stroke motors. I did not realise they were made by Villiers who were noted for their excellent (for the day) motorcycle engines. I nearly bought one twenty five years ago as they were the only British four stroke outboard motor available. I settled instead for a Honda B75 which I still have in running condition and in regular use as I heard one of these Ocean outboards coming down the river half a mile away and it put me off.
I like a bit of peace and quiet you see. Probably why I never found myself a SWMBO! /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

Regards.


Alan.
 
The Beast has just been given a quick clean. There are a few issues before I can try a start. The carb is gummed up, and the butterfly is too stiff to expect the governor thingie to work. The upper cylinder is full of sump oil, and I think the exhaust is too, presumably from being laid down the wrong way round.

Anyway, here are a couple of pics ..
P5220309-640.jpg

P5220310-640.jpg
 
It looks in fabulous condition but that's a dry exhaust and a pretty small silencer by the look of it. It is going to be noisy like others have said.
 
It says 4 stroke on it and he says the cylinder is full of sump oil so it is a 4stroke and this time you are actually wrong I reckon!
 
I've never understood the fascination with old engines. Noisy, thirsty, unreliable, under powered, smelly, etc etc.

Aren't they great? I can never see one without wondering if I can get it going. I love 'em.
 
Another villiers?

Hello,

Hope its OK to post - append this thread.

I recently acquired a villiers outboard which i have tested with an hours run.

It look slightly different than the blue engine above, so I was wondering if anyone could furnish any information about it.
I am considering painting it, but it will depend on what advise is offered.

Best regards,
John

49562b2b.jpg

613b194e.jpg

78dc1ecd.jpg
 
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