1956 Clinton 5.5 horse

freddyray21

Commander
Joined
Jun 10, 2006
Messages
2,460
Got a chance to buy one that is supposed to run. Haven't looked at it yet for 75 dollars. Supposed to be aircooled motor. Any thoughts on it good or bad?
 

WillyBWright

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Dec 29, 2003
Messages
8,200
Re: 1956 Clinton 5.5 horse

Parts will be impossible to find. $35 - $50 is a fair price. $75 if it's clean and proven to run. It might have a water pump to cool the exhaust.
 

steelespike

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Apr 26, 2002
Messages
19,069
Re: 1956 Clinton 5.5 horse

Clinton was a 2 cycle engine builder that also built some outboards.They have been out of business for some years now.Possibly 1980.The powerhead is air cooled the exhaust leg is water cooled most likely with a pump.Though very early motors may have a scoop.
My info goes back to 1960.I don't see a 5.5 until 78.
If you give us a model number we should be able to
date the motor.I feel they are a compromise at best.
They vibrate,are noisy,underpowered, and not to reliable.And then there is the parts availability.They also use a 16:1 fuel ratio (8 ozs per gallon).If you can save your money and get an older E/J 5 to 6 hp from the 50s to the 70s You will have a much better motor with routine parts still available some right here at iboats.
 

freddyray21

Commander
Joined
Jun 10, 2006
Messages
2,460
Re: 1956 Clinton 5.5 horse

I've got a good 6hp Evinrude. I don't need it just thought I might get it if it's any good
 

tmgman

Cadet
Joined
Nov 9, 2006
Messages
21
Re: 1956 Clinton 5.5 horse

freddyray21 said:
Got a chance to buy one that is supposed to run. Haven't looked at it yet for 75 dollars. Supposed to be aircooled motor. Any thoughts on it good or bad?
 

tmgman

Cadet
Joined
Nov 9, 2006
Messages
21
Re: 1956 Clinton 5.5 horse

Clinton engines is still in business even though they do not make outboards any more. They do still have some parts available. Clinton Engine Corp. 605 E. Maple P.O. Box 860 Maquoketa, Iowa 52060-0860. You can also call them at 563-652-2411. Leave a message and they will call you back. I recently received some info and a copy from an original repair manual for a very reasonable fee.
 
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