How are the small Chrysler/Force engines? Looking for something cheap for a canoe.

[777funk]

I've got a 125 Force and am now looking for a 3.5-5 horse for our canoe. Curious how these are. I'm also considering a lightwin (50's evinrude). Easy maintenance, good reliability and without having to scrounge to find regular use items is important. I don't enjoy searching for unobtainium or old used magnetos etc. Having never owned either Force or Johnyrude small engines, I figured I'd ask.

 

[777funk]

Everyone here only used the big guys? Maybe the little Chrysler engines are no good?

 

[SkiDad]

I never see that 3.5 size in Chrysler, so I would look at one of those small Evinrudes I see on craigslist all the time - the come up around 250-300 bucks give or take. If you do find a Chrysler (which could be Montgomery Wards or JC Penny, West Bend, Sea King, or something), i do know they are super easy to work on - well at least my force is - wonder how easy an impeller would be to find. There is a guy on youtube that fixes small chrysler engines...https://www.youtube.com/user/chrysleroutboarddude

 

[777funk]

I just missed a 5hp Chrysler for $50. I was supposed to pickup the day after I spoke with the older lady who's husband owned it and she sold to her next door neighbor it the morning I was to pick it up. Bummer!