Suzuki 55hp two stroke 1997 good or bad?

[wonger]

Im looking for a used engine between 50-65hp to fit to my 20ft shetland speedwell, im in the uk and can undertake servicing and repair myself, so dealer services are not a big issue, just as long as i can get parts, ive come across a 1997 suzuki 55hp two stroke long shaft with oil injection and power trim and tilt for sale at a reasonable price, however the only information and specification on this engine ive been able to find is the weight and number of cylinders, so has anyone got any information or advice on this model, has it any particular bugs i should be aware of before buying? incidently, im unable to physically examine this engine before purchase, as its 200 miles away and its a deposite job with balance to pay on collection and although this is far from ideal, ive seen pictures and been given details of its history and as nice condition engines are few and far between on the second hand market, then im willing to take a chance on buying this engine without a physical examination, i just need to know if this model suffers from any particular problems or if anyone can point me towards a site giving its full specification?<br /><br />many thanks<br /><br />wonging

 

[manitoba1]

Re: Suzuki 55hp two stroke 1997 good or bad?

I had a 1985 55hp suzuki which was a excellent running engine. I was one of the best warm start engines I've run. For cold starts it needed lots of priming but would always go. Believe it or not there is not alot of difference in those engine from 1985-97. Only really bug I had with this engine was a sticking waterflow sensor switch in the powerhead that would engage the rev-limiter and made the engine seem like it was running on a cylinder less. Very easy fix though. Otherwise it was a strong engine. My advise though is to replace the oil lines now and then, since they get kind of stiff and don't go on as tight if you have to remove them and put them back. One of my oil lines popped of when running and I cooked the upper cylinder. Overall though it was a good engine.<br />On the up side, I replaced it with a 70hp 4 stroke Suzuki which it is best engine I've ever run. Considerable cheaper to operate than my old 55hp in fuel and definately on oil since I only have to change the oil. It's so nice and quiet as well.<br /><br />Good luck

 

[DJ]

Re: Suzuki 55hp two stroke 1997 good or bad?

wonging,<br /><br />Ditto manitoba1.<br /><br />Nice running engine, a bit thirsty and cold blooded though.<br /><br />Two other things to watch for.<br /><br />1. Carb. jets are sensative to bebris.<br /><br />2. Head gasket. These will not stand an overheat. It's an easy fix though.

 

[wonger]

Re: Suzuki 55hp two stroke 1997 good or bad?

so is this engine thirsty for a 55hp two stroke then? because this is an issue here in the uk as petrol is £4 gallon<br /><br />i would of though that one 55hp would be more or less the same as the other regarding fuel consumption

 

[DJ]

Re: Suzuki 55hp two stroke 1997 good or bad?

wonging,<br /><br />Yes it's comparable. Many engines in that hp. range were/are 2 cylinders.<br /><br />It definetely uses more than the 4-strokes that replaced it/them.<br /><br />It's a good solidly built engine. Just be aware of the indiosynchrosies mentioned above.

 

[wonger]

Re: Suzuki 55hp two stroke 1997 good or bad?

ok, thanks for the info/advice, i would sure like a direct injection or 4 stroke, but their £4000+ over here!<br /><br />:-(

 

[DJ]

Re: Suzuki 55hp two stroke 1997 good or bad?

They're not much less expensive here. Out of range of many.