Chrysler 45 hp- change long shaft to short shaft

[conor1366]

I have a 1975 model 455HH 45 hp Chrysler that I need to change the mid section from the long shaft to short shaft. The way that the cavitation plate sits is about 4-5" below the hull. In order to produce performance and get up on plane I need to A: raise the transom...or B: change the midsection of the motor to short shaft. I am leaning to option B.

I assume I will need a new gear shaft as well as the shifter linkage.

I need to know what series/year midsection to keep an eye out for as well as any hints that my manual does not tell me.

I finally recieved my service manual but it does not give any clue how to or what to change (besides the obvious).

thanks
Conor

 

[conor1366]

Re: Chrysler 45 hp- change long shaft to short shaft

so I have found a hi jacker fixed jack plate for 130 bucks.

in everyones expert opinion--jackplate or mess with the shaft on the motor?

 

[eurolarva]

Re: Chrysler 45 hp- change long shaft to short shaft

You will need a driveshaft, water tube, and lower shift linkage. Your long shaft may already have the shift linkage extension. I believe it is a coupler with an extra 5 inch long piece of shifter material. Most lower units from 1965 to 80 should work if you find them on ebay. 35, 45 and 55 HP lower units are the same.

 

[conor1366]

Re: Chrysler 45 hp- change long shaft to short shaft

Thanks E.

I'm going to price out both options. I may have this motor till end of the summer then sell it and repower with a newer motor.

This is/may be a stupid selfish question, but is the motor worth more long shaft or short shaft?

 

[Miapan]

I know it has been 15 years

 

[ferdly1]

why do this- if your only problem is getting on plane. Install a dolphin
on lower unit as long as motor is big enough for size of boat