73 Chrysler 55 crank no start

[rickryder]

I just installed a nice 55hp on my boat.Got everything hooked up and fired it,it ran great but while it was running the muffs slid off and got caught in the prop. Minor dings on prop but now it wont start...My question do you think the key sheared and its now out of time and thats why it wont start?? I am planning to pull the flywheel some time this week after work but I was just wondering what you guys think happened...any input is welcome

 

[tater76]

Re: 73 Chrysler 55 crank no start

Ok, so I have a 73 55hp Chrysler too. Did the same thing with the muffs, got caught in the prop. Mine was hard to start afterwards but did get it going again. If you cant get yours to start I would check the flywheel key, and shear pin on the prop. I have really cut my teeth on this damn motor, and have made all the mistakes, but its worth it. So check the little things first, the woodriff keys are easily found on ebay, napa, etc. I have even resorted to milling my own out of stock I found at Napa. Let us know what you find.

 

[tater76]

Re: 73 Chrysler 55 crank no start

I forgot to add, flywheel sheer key/woodruff key will shear if the nut is less than 95ftlbs torque. I sheared my key after reinstalling the flywheel and not torquing it down all the way. it will turn over but will not start if the flywheel shifts on the shaft

 

[rickryder]

Re: 73 Chrysler 55 crank no start

OK checked out the motor this weekend.I pulled the flywheel to check the key in the crank to see if that was my no start problem.The crank and key were perfect so I wet back to basics.Checked the points and gap and found the cam was rusted and ground down the tab for the points and closed my gap. I have an extra 55 so I swapped all the parts I needed,cleaned and lubed everything,set everything by the book and she started and runs like a champ.Never overlook anything on these outboards the smallest thing will leave you stranded in the water Lesson learned!