Westbend/Chrysler worth it?

[ljc1957]

I,m getting ready to look at this boat and I really like the hull design. Anyway, with help from this forum, I've figured out that the outboard on it is a 60's Westbend/Chrysler, 40hp outboard. The owner claims it runs excellant and will push the boat to almost 30mph. My question for you guys is, should I invest in this old motor? How hard is it to get parts for these engines? Thanks in advance.

 

[eurolarva]

Re: Westbend/Chrysler worth it?

Nice looking boat. Motor must be older then 1965. Chrysler and late westbend never made a 40 HP at least after 1965. Parts are going to be an issue. Unless you can find a parts manual then cross parts to newer chrysler designs which may not work considering the 40 hp was discontinued before chrysler. It is sharp looking though.

 

[ljc1957]

Re: Westbend/Chrysler worth it?

I talked to the owner briefly on Friday and I forgot to ask what make the engine is. In his ad he states it's a "70's 40 hp". I can't find any engine that looks like that model. I think I can get this boat for a reasonable price and he says it runs excellant. Even if it's an off brand outbaord, do you think it's worth the effort? Thanks

 

[eurolarva]

Re: Westbend/Chrysler worth it?

If it is a 45 it should not be a problem. Most older 45 have similar parts to the newer versions. Most online parts places only go back to about 1976 for parts. West bend and chrysler merged around 1966 so older then that is west bend. If motor is early 70 then it is not a 40 hp. Hard to tell what it is worth when you dont mention a cost. If the transom will hold another motor instead of what is on there haggle for the boat and make the motor a non cost thing. If you can put a merc or something else on it then. If motor runs good I doubt he can sell it for more then a couple hundred. If it is mid 60s then probably around 150 tops for the motor.