80s 35hp head question

[Steve Mahler]

I bought a Chrysler 35hp outboard that (judging from the graphics and the pictures on chrysler crew) looks to be from the late 70s or early 80s (i dont have the number right handy). Anyhow, it has the spark plugs at an angle coming out of the head.

However, I noticed that the earlier 35hps from the 60s had a straight spark plug head setup, similar to the 60s 45hp I had...

So, do I really have a 35hp? or did they change the design of the head at some point?


Thanks

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: 80s 35hp head question

YEP! They changed them in 1976. You have the 35 from the 20, 25, 30, and (after 1976, the 35) series engines.

The 35 with the straight plugs has a bigger bore and stroke and comes from the 35, 45, 55 series engines.

Completely different blocks, although surprisingly, all engines from 20 on up to 140, with the exception of the 55, 60, 65 series "big block" engines, use the same connecting rods.

And, if you have been to The Chrysler crew, post a photo or more of your boat and engine in the photo albums. Mine are there under Frank's Boats. Join the chat room on Thursday nights from 9pm to 11pm Eastern Standard time. Most of the time I am there as Bronzeman.

 

[Steve Mahler]

Re: 80s 35hp head question

Thanks Frank - I knew you would know. I will post a pic of my nearly restored Red Valiant with the 35hp - I redid the floor, stringers, and have buffed years of oxidation. Looks great- just finishing the trailer right now, waiting for warm weather to do a little interior triming of the new carpet and seats, and she is ready.

I have a followup question - what did they do to the 30hp to make it into a 35 - just marketing? I will be curious if this engine will easily plane the Valiant. I have been looking for an affordable 45 or 50hp close enough for me to go grab...but nothing yet. Bummer is that I sold one last year! DOH!!!

BTW I also acquired a clean 100hp Chrysler so now I am looking for a larger Chrysler hull for another resto....

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: 80s 35hp head question

Probably port timing, carb, and a little bigger bore made the 30 into a 35, but that's a question to ask Franz on Thursday night.

Valiant was a nice little hull. 14 foot, Correct? You will probably plane it but not much more. and don't put too much weight in it. Probably looking at 22 - 25 MPH with 1 or 2 people including yourself.

Remember, until early '80s, Chryslers were rated at the crank and didn't put their rated horsepower into the water.