1920’s Evinrude Elto (M17253)

1920s Evinrude Elto is a classic and historic outboard motor that represents the early days of outboard motor technology. Manufactured by Evinrude, a pioneering brand in the outboard motor industry, this engine is one of the early 2-stroke models designed for small boats, especially for recreational use and fishing.

Here’s a detailed description of the 1920s Evinrude Elto (M17253):

Key Features:

Engine Type:

2-Stroke: The Evinrude Elto, like many early outboard motors, is a 2-stroke engine. This type of engine completes its power cycle in two strokes of the piston, allowing it to be compact and relatively simple. 2-stroke motors were popular during this time because they offered better power-to-weight ratios and were easy to repair.

Power:

The Evinrude Elto typically ranged in horsepower from around 1 to 3 HP in its various models during the 1920s, depending on the specific version. These small engines were designed to provide adequate power for lightweight boats such as dinghies, canoes, and small fishing boats.

Compact and Lightweight Design:

Early 2-stroke motors like the Elto were highly valued for their lightweight construction, which made them easy to mount on smaller boats. The engine was compact, and its design was relatively simple, making it accessible for boaters to maintain and repair.

Design and Build:

The Evinrude Elto motors from the 1920s were often characterized by their distinctive appearance, with exposed, brass components and a simple, utilitarian design. These motors were manually started by a pull cord and operated with a mix of oil and gasoline.

Fuel and Oil Mix:

As with most early 2-stroke engines, the Elto motor required a mixture of oil and gasoline for lubrication and operation. The oil-to-gas ratio for these early motors was typically a bit richer compared to modern 2-stroke engines, often around a 1:16 ratio.

Reliability and Maintenance:

Despite being over 100 years old, Evinrude Elto motors are known for their durability. Their simple, mechanical design, with few moving parts, meant that they were relatively easy to maintain. For collectors and vintage boating enthusiasts, these engines are valued for their historical significance, and many examples still run with proper care.

Applications:

The 1920s Evinrude Elto was ideal for small boats, fishing vessels, and recreational users in the early days of motorized boating. At the time, it provided boaters with a much-needed alternative to oars, increasing efficiency and enabling longer trips on the water.

Historical Significance:

Evinrude was one of the first companies to successfully mass-produce outboard motors, and the Elto name is associated with the company’s early years. The Elto motors were among the first to make motorized boating accessible to the general public, which helped to revolutionize recreational boating and fishing. The Evinrude Elto was one of the first steps in the evolution of modern outboard motors.

Collector’s Item:

Today, the 1920s Evinrude Elto is often regarded as a vintage collector’s item. Antique outboard motors are popular among enthusiasts, and well-maintained examples of the Elto can be found at vintage boat shows or as part of private collections.

Summary:

1920s Evinrude Elto (M17253) is a vintage 2-stroke outboard motor from the early days of motorized boating. Offering around 1 to 3 horsepower, this compact and simple engine was designed for small boats, providing early boaters with a lightweight and reliable option for getting on the water. Known for its distinctive design and durability, the Elto is considered a piece of boating history and is highly regarded by collectors of vintage outboard motors. With its 2-stroke engine and fuel mixture requirements, it represents the beginnings of the modern outboard motor era.