unidentified chrysler, maybe a 45hp?

[COLDSHOTAXEMAN]

Hello everybody. This is my first post to iboats. So far, I really like this website.
So here is the question. I recently got an old Chrysler. But it is missing the cowling. I believe it is a 45hp from various photo's I have seen of them. They are rather unique in appearance even by chrysler standards. But I have yet to find any serial or model numbers anywhere on this engine. I have a service manual on CD rom and it says look on the transom clamp, (It's not there), or on the inside of the engine pan, near the carb or cowling latch. But there are no numbers there either.
I have been writing down any part numbers on the engine I can find hoping to reference this back to a year of mfgr. But not having much luck that way either.
The engine is locked up at this point so I'm going to tear it down to find out what the problem is. But If I can't I.D. this thing and get replacement parts, it's off to the recycle yard.
Any input would be very helpfull, thanks.

 

[Capt Ron]

Re: unidentified chrysler, maybe a 45hp?

If it's white and two cylinder then it could be a 35, 45, 0r 55. More 55's where made of the 3. Look on the sides of the block for a welch plug with numbers stamped on it. Maybe painted or shiny alumimum and is serial number.

Pictures help.

Capt Ron

 

[COLDSHOTAXEMAN]

Re: unidentified chrysler, maybe a 45hp?

Thanks Capt. Ron for your response. I'm a former 2cnd class myself by the way.
I just took a look at the chrysler. No welch plugs anywhere that I can see. It is a two cylinder, and The color is white, but not typical "Chrysler White". It's more of a dirty or cream color of white. I realize the engine is old, and maybe she ran hot. But the cream white color is consistent throughout the entire motor, not just the power head. Also it appears as if the cylinder head has been replaced. It is painted silver.
I also noticed that the lower unit housing for the final drive gears is very pointed on the forward side. I haven't seen that feature on many of the chrysler photos that I've looked at. But as you stated, mostly the 45 and 55 hp's tend to have this pointed final drive.
I will try to get some photos posted. But I'm not very good at that kind of thing.
Thanks again for all your help.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: unidentified chrysler, maybe a 45hp?

Early two cylinder 35, 45, and 55 Chrysler engines had the "stump stabber" lower unit pointed in front. Actally called the Hydro-Dart lower. I don't know if West Bend engines used this lower before Chrysler bought them in the early 60s.

If the lower engine pan is relatively sharp or angular in the front, it may be an early Chrysler. If it is more rounded, it may be a West Bend or even the first year badged Chrysler.

Without removing the head and measuring the bore, it is difficult to differentiate between 35, 45, and 55. They all used the same basic block, mounting, and lower unit. If you have or can get your hands on an Interstate manual, they list all the carbs used on Chrysler engines so the carb number (stamped on the mounting flange--example: WB 17 D ) will help to identify it.

Go to the Chrysler Crew website and look at the engine used in the endurance run. this was an early Chrysler

 

[COLDSHOTAXEMAN]

Re: unidentified chrysler, maybe a 45hp?

Thanks, "skipper". That is some good info. I think I get what your saying about the angular, or pointed pan. But I suppose I would call it curved, or bent.
But as I said earlier, I will try to post some photos for the benefit of all.
It is strange, but this serial no. thing has got me puzzled. I can't see any evidence that a number tag was ever located in the "expected" locations, and maybe removed later ? One would think there would be some paint discoloration or imprint where the tag used to be.
There is currently a listing on that E-b site for a boat with a Chrylser 45 outboard attached that looks pretty much identical to the engine that I have. The seller lists it as a late sixties engine. But again, back to the paint color. Their engine is just too white. I had a plymouth Duster years ago that I painted "Chrysler White". That was a VERY brilliant white. As is the engine in this auction. But This engine color isn't like that.
But....West Bend white, Like a blender..Yea, that works...
How much fun is this to be on a mission to save an orphan?
Thanks for the help guys.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: unidentified chrysler, maybe a 45hp?

On the Chrysler engines the aluminum model number plate would have been in the very front of the lower pan right next to the hood latch. It was held on with two small escutcheon pins driven into the holes. It would be about two inches long and one inch wide with a pin at each end. The pins are easily driven out from outside, underneath the pan so the ID may very well have been removed. Since very little light gets there, fading of the paint is not likely and with only a little use the dirt and oil will even out.

 

[COLDSHOTAXEMAN]

Re: unidentified chrysler, maybe a 45hp?

O.K. It's alive. #2 cylinder was corroded with rust. after pulling the head and sanding off the rust, a spray of wd fore oh, and some back and forth with the air impact. She let loose and started to turn.
Some messing with the points, now we got spark. Rig up a tank and get some gas to her.....
And SHE RUNS!!! But runs bad. Heavy vibration and only running on one cylinder 95% of the time. Compression test shows 125 on the bad cyl. and 150 on the good cyl.
Well I've done what I can. I s'pose it is off to that "E" site for parts, "project", or whatever, to whomever.
Too bad really. I think I had an unusual motor and had it been more complete and salvageable, could have been a nice piece of boating history to own.
I appreciate the response about the Chrysler endurance test article. And Yes, This motor looks very much like that engine. Pretty impressive, 10 thousand miles non-stop. It does make me wonder if that was a "Chrysler engine", or a "West Bend Golden Shark". The engine says Chysler/ West bend. But I tend to think it was more of a West Bend product.I believe that probably any outboard is capable of that feat with proper maintainence. But Chrysler Ran with the promo idea. Smart marketing. If the Chrysler automaker corp. had not run into trouble in the 80's, I believe they would have become a dominant factor in the boating marketplace.
I have been very impressed with the overall design and construction of this outboard. With a built in alternator stator, the charging system is bullet proof and ready to go. The points style ignition is fed 12 volts off this alternator much like an automotive engine and is very simple, yet very reliable.
If I get the chance to pick up another of these Chrysler's I will jump right on it. It is a very well built and VERY well engineered outboard.
Thanks to all for their interest, advice and support. See you on the water.