Re: 1954 Evinrude Super Fastwin 15

[Don]

OK, sounds like the ignition has already been serviced, great! This engine should have solid core plug wires, so yes, they should be replaced if someone put fancy automotive plug wires in there. I think the correct wires are 7MM diameter though.
And yes, keep that mixture at 16:1, even though 24:1 may actually be the recommendation. That engine has some plain bushings on the wrist pins, the extra oil is a good cushion, and a good running motor won’t smoke much or foul the plugs (unless endless trolling is your thing) using the 16:1 mixture. I LOVE the smell of two stroke smoke and plugs are cheap!