Mercury 55E 40HP

[Vintin]

Serial #581531. I couldn't find what year it was using the links at the top of this forum. I need a low speed needle for one of the carbs and a new timing belt. Good links to Merc information are welcome. It also seems to be missing what may 4 rubber pads behind the removable face plate and whatever it is that screws into this face plate to hold it in place. Seems to be all there otherwise but time will tell. Came with a two blade brass prop that shows little wear.

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: Mercury 55E 40HP

Serial can't be correct. Could it be 981531? Face and decal look to be 1956.

Oldmercs.com is a good starting point, as is johnsoldmercurysite.com
And
AOMCI.org

What is the number on your carbs? It'll be AJ-xxA . Might have the needle here....

 

[Vintin]

Re: Mercury 55E 40HP

I did have the serial number wrong, it is 981531 like you figured. The carb number is AJ50A. It would be great if you have a spare needle. I assume I should be looking in to rebuilding the carbs. I hope parts kits are still available. Thanks.

 

[carholme]

Re: Mercury 55E 40HP

1956-58 Thunderbolt 40hp (906752 thru 1152195)

Carburetor

Gerry

 

[Vintin]

Re: Mercury 55E 40HP

Thanks ChineWalker and Gerry. Tons of info there.

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: Mercury 55E 40HP

Some of the consumables might be as close as your local NAPA or West Marine, or anyplace that handles Sierra aftermarket parts.

Helpful to have part numbers when you go in, though, as most will look at you cross-eyed if you say you need something for your almost 60-year old motor.

Some to start with:
Waterpump impeller: Sierra # 18-3008, OEM #47-20813.
Fuel pump kit (diaphram & gaskets): Sierra #18-7804, OEM #23014A1
Carb kit (x2, gaskets, float valve, filter screen): Sierra #18-7013.
Carb float (x2, newer plastic one to replace old style cork): 18-7208

If your compression checks out (no more than 5% variance between high and low readings) and the lower unit isn't in too bad of shape, then you can probably get by with basic tune-up stuff. Nice running motors, I've got several similar ones myself...

 

[merc850]

Re: Mercury 55E 40HP

Looking at that picture that missing screw is not the low speed needle, those are on the right side of the carb and are both there. The missing screw might be for the choke plate stop.Nothing to worry about.