Chysler 55

[gransport3800]

I have a boat with a Chysler 55 outboard motor. I'm not sure of the year, but the model number is 557ch. I have a hard time starting it and keeping it running. I noticed that the choke doesn't work because of a lack of 12 volt power. I checked the solenoid that moves it and that works. I think that the key switch is not sending power to it. I'm considering hooking it up to a toggle switch. I also noticed that there is some sort of switch or relay that sends power to something up by the upper spark plug has a terminal that has broken off. There is a label on the motor for the wires that power everything and the wire that is supposed to be connected to this switch or relay is labeled "HEAT". What is the purpose of this? Is it some kind of glow plug for heating the fuel mixture?

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Chysler 55

The ignition switch is PUSH to choke. You must push in the key and hold it in while cranking to choke the engine. I am assuming the previous owner did not explain starting procedure to you. You pull out the silver button and advance the throttle lever until it stops. This will put the engine in fast idle in neutral. Then start the engine with the key. after it is started, pull back on the control handle to vertical (neutral) and push in the silver button. This will re-engage the shift mechanism. To go into gear "snap" the handle firmly and quickly forward or backward about 1/3 of the way. Now accelerate to the speed you want. Do not "ease" the engine into gear. This damages the dog clutches in the lower unit. If you are pushing the key to choke and the choke does not close, then yes, you can hook up a separate switch.

The orange wire connects to the overheat indicator on the head. The broken piece you are describing is the sensor. It is a simple bimetallic switch, normally open that closes when the head temperature gets too high. It is replacable but I don't know if you will be able to find one.