1960 evinrude 18 hp not running

[Jimmygreentop]

I have a 1960 evinrude 18hp it has a starter what should I check before sinking money into it .It turns over and seams to have compression.

 

[joereeves]

Seem to doesn't really tell us anything. You can borrow a compression gauge from most auto part stores.

Is this engine new to you or have you owned it for awhile?

Remove the spark plugs and check the spark which should jump a 1/4" gap with a strong blue lightning like flame... a real SNAP! Does it.

Now, if you have compression and spark and the engine won't start, the most common problem is that the carburetor is fouled, in which case it requires removing, cleaning and rebuilding.

You need to explain more in detail about the engine's history, and what the problem is now.