73 Chrysler 20hp questions

[dirkmc3]

I searched the forums pretty heavily for info on my motor and haven't had much luck. So...new post it is.....I recently picked up a 1973 Chrysler 20hp shortshaft outboard. Its a pull start with no charging system and I am trying to get it sorted. I picked it up pretty cheaply and its a pretty clean motor. My issue...its a bear to start. After 4-5 pulls or maybe 20 pulls It finally fires and dies right away...then after a couple of those it fires up fine and runs great. I have replaced fuel lines and filter, inspected fuel pump and have fresh gas. I checked plugs and compression and they are good. Anyone??

I finally found a local mech who will work on the Chrysler line (task in and of itself) and the motor is going in next week. I have a carb kit, new fuel pump, and new points/condensors on the way. I fugured I may as well do them all if I was going to do anything. Parts were pretty easy to source. hopefully this will get'r sorted.

I have a couple questions for anyone who is familiar...

Decent motor if kept well?
Any known issues or things to focus on?
Coils?? Are they difficult to find and is there an alternate replacement?

point gap...should be about .020?
Plug gap .030?

Timing?? anyone know if there is an ideal advance?

On a different note.....anyone ever converted an old points/condenser to a solid state ignition?

Thanks for the help!

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: 73 Chrysler 20hp questions

The low speed jet might not be clean.If it's clogged it's UGLY.You will find it on the side of the main jet.J

 

[dirkmc3]

Re: 73 Chrysler 20hp questions

So I decided since I don't have a lot of $$ tied up in this motor, spending a small amount on points, condensors, fuel pump and a carb kit was worthwhile since its going to be apart anyway......Its all being done as I type this.

the plugs seem to be getting good spark so coils should be fine.


Lower unit question now......there is a seam along the gearcase housing running paralell to the propshaft that has a slight seepage after running the motor for the day. If it is overfilled would that cause an overpressure situation? Is this re-sealable? and if so, how the heck to you get it apart. Are there bolts holding it together from inside and accessable from the top of the lower unit??

thanks!!