Re: Need Help Chrysler 55HP
That engine has the 2 piece lower unit so it PROBABLY is earlier than 1980. most likely 78-80. Go over to The Chrysler Crew tonight at 9 PM Eastern time and ask Franz and Dave in the chat room. Have the model number handy. It is inside the cowl, probably on the engine block, low and back by the head.
The engine itself was a sweetheart but if the ignition is MAGNA POWER II, that is a very poor ignition. Now don't get confused, because Chrysler made several Magna Power ignitions. Only the Mag II was poor. If your engine is 1977-1980 and that is very likely, then it has the Mag II ignition and you do need to be aware that NO--repeat, NO repair parts for the ignition are available. Any ignition malfunction would require finding a complete retro-fit ignition from another engine.
Again, the engine is very powerful and torquey for a 2 cylinder engine, but the down side of that is that if abused, especially by using a too small prop, they will tear out the lower unit gears. You can see that the lower unit is a different color so it was replaced at some time.
Your prop is in poor condition and should be repaired or another good one purchased. The upside of your 2 piece lower unit is that the props are still available. Depending on boat size, 10 3/8 diameter by 11,12,or 13 pitch. That is the shear pin drive prop and you could use one off an older 35,45,55 as long as pitch is correct for your boat.
If you look closely, you will see that the coils are located in the covered compartment on the head. The plugs are also covered. Don't know why Chrysler decided to do that.
I have a 55 and a 60 with the Prestolite ignition and I love them.
