Chrysler 55hp outboard motor

noah4009

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Nov 6, 2008
Messages
283
I just acquired a 1977 Chrysler boat with a 55hp Chrysler enigine. The model number of the engine is 557HC and serial 3188. What year is it and where can I find parts for it? Is it magna power ignition? I read on another post, if it is you can not find parts.
Thanks
 

eurolarva

Rear Admiral
Joined
Jun 24, 2003
Messages
4,182
Re: Chrysler 55hp outboard motor

Hello Noah and welcome to Iboats. Your motor is from 1971. Some parts are still available from Mercury and there are also after market parts out there. It all depends on what you are looking for. Ignition parts are becoming scarce but can be found through different sources including ebay.
 

noah4009

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Nov 6, 2008
Messages
283
Re: Chrysler 55hp outboard motor

Hi
Captain and commander I salute you. Thanks for the help I was getting where fast. Any other help would be appreciated. Again Thanks
Noah4009
 

Frank Acampora

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Jan 19, 2007
Messages
12,004
Re: Chrysler 55hp outboard motor

Chrysler used the term Magna Power very loosely to define electronic ignition systems and there were I, II, and III versions.

On the 55 HP engine the trouble-prone Magna Power II was only used from 1977 through 1980.

Further, these engines were twin carburetor 2 cylinder engines. If your engine has only one carb, then it definitely does not have the troublesome ignition.
 

noah4009

Petty Officer 1st Class
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Nov 6, 2008
Messages
283
Re: Chrysler 55hp outboard motor

Again, thank you Commander. I am just trying to see if for a few dollars I can get this boat running.
Thanks Noah
 

noah4009

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Nov 6, 2008
Messages
283
Re: Chrysler 55hp outboard motor

HI
I have a few more questions. Does this motor need the fuel and oil mixed together in the gas tank? If I need a new motor, what size can I put on this boat. It is a 1977 tri hull. It curently has a 55 hp motor. Is the chrylser 1971 model 557HC a saltwater motor. As you can see I am a cadet. (LOL)
 

noah4009

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Nov 6, 2008
Messages
283
Re: Chrysler 55hp outboard motor

You guys are a big big help. I am putting the head back on. What should I torque it down to. Also when I put the head on the wires and the plugs how do I check to see if the plugs are firing? Do I sit one on top of the engine and look for spark, or do I hold it next to the engine and turn it over and look for spark? Help
Thank you
 
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