1978 (?) Chrslyer 55 HP

[splewis1977]

Numbers:

559H8k
2774
4500-5500 RPM

So, first boat (kinda clueless) got it for the best price ($.00) from a friend. Have some floor work to do, but that I know how. I am new to engne's for the most part. I can change car oil, replace filters and minor stuff like that. However when it comes to intricate engine repairs, still clueless. So I turn to you fine folks, hoping to get some help.

The mortor has not run for about 6 years. Rusting in minimal, contained to the edges of the fly wheel. The flywheel spins while controls are in neutral, as does the prop (I read a little first so I didn't sound like a complete moron). All controls and wires appear to be present. No wires have been nicked or stripped and no rusting is visible on any connections except for the battery connecters (Which i will remove). The igntion is there, though the wire have been detatched. dual carbs appear to move freely. so my questions are as follows

What should I replace and change out before even TRYING to turn it over?

What does a "standard" tune up consist of on this type?

Are parts impossible to obtain?

If the flywheel is missing 1 tooth, is it a total loss?

and anyother comments, suggestions or questions I would LOVE the help. Thank you folks, you guys are GREAT.

 

[87blf125]

Re: 1978 (?) Chrslyer 55 HP

tune up to me would be plugs and clean carbs, but i think you would be ok to try to start it without changing anything, just be sure to use muffs or put lower unit in a tub. be sure to run good gas. if it don't fire check for spark and make sure your getting gas. not sure but if you are only missing 1 tooth i think you should be ok. parts can be hard to find but they are out there.

 

[hoofbite]

Re: 1978 (?) Chrslyer 55 HP

Can't beat the price. New battery clean connection. Fresh mixed gas should be 50:1 not if you have exterior (removable tanks) might wanna replace along with hoses and fittings as there is probably alot of crap in them. New plugs and give a try assuming you can get the ignition re-wired. If not there are other ways to turn it over. As mentioned just make sure the leg is in water or pick up a set of muffs. Give her a go let us k ow what happens hope it fires for you.

 

[splewis1977]

Re: 1978 (?) Chrslyer 55 HP

Thank you folks, this website is priceless with the knowledge. I really apprecaite the replies, I will let you know the results, and/or problems. Thank you again!

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: 1978 (?) Chrslyer 55 HP

After it sets!! Do a compression/spark test.Then look into the fuel system/Ethanol is BAD on older motors.
Try to start it before you do any big repairs.The carb might need cleaning first.
One tooth won't hurt.J

 

[splewis1977]

Re: 1978 (?) Chrslyer 55 HP

Thank you again for the info. I have to get a new bulb and line and gas tank. It did not come with a tank, and the old bulb and line was dry and rotten. So, I am hoping to pick those, muffs and the battery next week. I am trying to figure out the ignition, it appears that there is a key (not in my possession) on the control box and 2 wires hanging from teh dash i am assuming are a "push to start". I want to verify the location where the muffs go. and is it ok to use a hose jammed into the water intake? for cooling?

 

[hoofbite]

Re: 1978 (?) Chrslyer 55 HP

If you have a large garbage can or a deep rubber made container this works better than muffs anyways. You should see a slot on either side on the lower leg closer to the bottom the slots/holes usually have plastic screen like cover pretty hard to miss. If your unsure just use a bucket. Chances are someone lost the key and hot wired the thing. You'll need that battery.

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: 1978 (?) Chrslyer 55 HP

The new big round muffs might not work well on this motor.They can overheat for some reason with these muffs.Post a pic of your water pickup? Is it on the side or under the snout.
See pic.This might be the muffs you need.You need these if the pickup is on the side.J

 

[splewis1977]

Re: 1978 (?) Chrslyer 55 HP

Hopefully, these will help a bit

 

[hoofbite]

Re: 1978 (?) Chrslyer 55 HP

Pictures 1 & 3 the rectangular hole about 10-12 inches from the very bottom. You should take a file to that prop or replace if you can find one. Sorry I'm a little excited for you can't wait to see if she fires up

 

[splewis1977]

Re: 1978 (?) Chrslyer 55 HP

Got it. Thanks for the excitement, I just found out I am probably working the next 8 days, and its too late for me to grab the battery and gas can..it maybe a bit. We'll see.....Thanks again, I'll grab some muffs when I grab the battery

 

[emoney]

Re: 1978 (?) Chrslyer 55 HP

Looks just like my 50hp. It would work better if you could use a trash can...
one of the outdoor styles. You probably already have this and don't have to
buy anything. Otherwise, both of those 'muffs' need to be positioned the
right way, or preferably trimmed to where there are two flat opposing sides.

 

[splewis1977]

Re: 1978 (?) Chrslyer 55 HP

I will just grab the trash can Sadly between the hull and floor repair I am doing (my other thread) and the work schedule that is about to kick my butt, I may not get much done for a few weeks...hopefully after, I will be ready to hot wire her (lol or by a new ignition) and fire her up....we'll see.