Bringing back to life a Chrysler 9.9

[jmok1978]

I picked up a 60's era chrysler 9.9 for $50 bucks. Good compression, I think I can get it running with some elbow grease.

At this point I am trying to figure out the electric starter. Photos below will show a ground wire going from a button on the very top of the starter. This ground wire mounts to the starter body. The wire is old, has broke multiple times and someone has repaired it at least twice.

Couple questions:

• What does this button on top of the starter do? Can it be bypassed? I can't imagine having to take the engine cover off everytime I need to start the engine to push this button. The motor has an on off switch next to the till handle, not understanding the point to this button.
• The button appears to be riveted into the starter cover and the negative and positive are held on by the rivet, what is the best way to repair this?

 

[Nordin]

That is not a spot for a button.
There should be a light bulb in that place. The 9,9 autoelectric yes all autoelectric models 9,2 9,9 12,9 and 20Hp was made for fishing and the light bulb should be an auxiliary in the dark to handle fishing equipment.

 

[jmok1978]

That makes sense. A bayonet outlet, that explains the translucent motor cover. You answered all my questions thanks!