chrysler 55 hp

[Spudboy]

Came into a 78' 55HP Chrysler Magna Power II. I've read every post I can find and any other related info, got the Seloc manual, etc, trying to learn about this engine, and it ain't encouraging. It appears to have been sparingly used and well cared for. After sitting for a year, with a little coaxing it started up and ran strong for 3-4 hours at all throttle positions except was rough at idle (plug wire connections are pretty corroded). Knowing I'm hosed with respect to parts I'm considering a preemptive strike by selling it for what I can get now and moving into an engine with available parts. Or, I could just run this mother until it pukes and trash can the remains. Any advice, comments greatly appreciated.

Spudboy

 

[BuzzStPoint]

Re: chrysler 55 hp

Sounds like you have 1/2 the battle won..

It runs but it's rough at idle.
Parts are available, you just need to know where to get them

Right running.
I would start by cleaning up the corroded wires. Change the plugs.
Replace all fuel lines on the motor, Might even want to do a carb and fuel pump rebuild.

It should run smooth after that.

After all that would would have spent less then 50 on this motor.

 

[Spudboy]

Re: chrysler 55 hp

thanks for the advice CPO. You're right, should at least give it a chance. Maybe I'm a few hundred hours away from serious problems, and it really pushes my little 14'.

Spudboy

 

[BuzzStPoint]

Re: chrysler 55 hp

i've got a 70 55 on my 14' glastron runabout..

It pushes it nicely.. Somehow i thought it would be faster. But then again, i dont know the speed.

I would spend the little bit of money to get it running. You may get a season or 2 out of it..

If you do decide to junk it.. Part it out.. You'll make some cash for it.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: chrysler 55 hp

Magna Power II was used for one or two years on the 55, 105, and 120 engines. It was a poor ignition design and they did fail regularly--so much so that Chrysler offered a retro fit under warranty.

However: Some will run forever. So if yours is running, that engine is a beautiful design, powerful and torquey--Give it a chance. And by the way. Ignition parts are becoming available again through CDI

 

[Spudboy]

Re: chrysler 55 hp

Thanks Frank and BuzzStPoint. I'm encouraged, especially if CDI may become more available. I'll tune it and run it this summer/fall and this winter really mess with it so I might have a clue. I've got the Seloc but read somewhere I should have the Clymer manual as well?

I checked out that Glastron project - Labor of love for certain, and inspiring! My 55 is on a 14' Crestliner tri-hull OB that I'm converting to a Kokanee fisher. Got a 7.5 Merc kicker, but if I can get the Chrylser to idle out, I may be able to leave the Merc (and weight) at home.

 

[1983rinker]

Re: chrysler 55 hp

tune it up and go.

 

[1983rinker]

Re: chrysler 55 hp

it will run lke a champ when you do a good tune up.