1970's Chrysler motors, problems, preventative maintenance?

[chry120]

I cringe to ask this(after seeing the response on Force motors-why such a bad reputation), but I just purchased a 1977 Chrysler 120hp on a 1977 17' Sea sprite tri hull... Got it cheap from the original owner who did not use the boat much(all original and mint, I mean mint). Should I be worried? What stuff should I do to keep up with it?

 

[chry120]

Re: 1970's Chrysler motors, problems, preventative maintenance?

Anybody?

 

[DJ]

Re: 1970's Chrysler motors, problems, preventative maintenance?

chry120, <br /><br />Do this first.<br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=36;t=000006 <br /><br />Those engines tended to run dirty and deposits killed them long before they wore out.<br /><br />In addition, change the water pump and lower unit fluid.

 

[eurolarva]

Re: 1970's Chrysler motors, problems, preventative maintenance?

I have a 36 year old chrysler and it runs better then a lot of the newer motors I see at the launch. Get a manual and get familiar with the motor. Maybe buy a compression tester at sears for 25 bucks. You can use it on anything with a spark plug. I would not do a decarb on the motor until you are comfortable with it and know everything is running good. After a couple of times out and things are going well do the decarb. First thing you should do is change the lower unit oil. Make sure your gas tank has fresh fuel and is mixed 50 to 1. I recommend stabilizer in the tank and try to keep the tank as close to full as you can and keep the vent screw closed when you are not using the motor during the week. As soon as you start the motor check out the back and verify water is coming out the pee hole in the back. If not after a minute or two kill the motor. IF everything is running good use it till your manual comes in and read lots of posts and learn as much as you can about the motor.

 

[andrewkafp]

Re: 1970's Chrysler motors, problems, preventative maintenance?

The pics in this post may interest you and restore your faith in the old Chryslers..<br /> http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=33;t=002906 <br />BTW There are a lot of them still running down here in OZ.