Chrysler 55HP

[carbineone]

Hey,a guy is offering me a 1985 Chrysler 55 HP for a hundred dollars with the wiring and controls but it is about 150 miles away from me so does anyone have a pic of one they can show me.He is an older fella and does not do cameras.Found it by placing a ad on Crigslist.I would like to know what they look like as I remember older Chryslers as being butt ugly and do not want a ugly motor even if cheap.He says it runs good and is on a old boat so I can hear it run.Also are they a good dependable motor or a piece of crap and maybe thats why so cheap? Thanks

 

[kjburr]

Re: Chrysler 55HP

I myself own a 55, and I have never had any problems. As for the looks, in my opinion, the engine cover is kind of big and bulky and is not the best looking. I am not sure about the year you are getting as mine is a 1973. If it runs and everything, I'd say your getting a deal. People around here are selling just the controls and cables for about $30. As for the parts, I seem to have a little trouble finding what I need, but I mean 55 horses and 100 bucks, steal it.. hehe

 

[carbineone]

Re: Chrysler 55HP

kjburr.This one is a 1985 model so I am sure it looks different than a 73 year.Hopefully someone can supply me a pic if they have a 1985 or so...I really do not want to drive 150 miles to see its really ugly...Thanks

 

[huskerdaninva]

Re: Chrysler 55HP

Well, I guess beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Personally, I love the looks and styling of the Chrysler outboards. Simple design, good performance, owner friendly design. Can't beat that with a big stick! Anyway, do a google search of the model year and Chrysler outboard. I'm sure you can find a picture out there in cyberworld!
I mentioned on here before that growing up in Nebraska as a youngster I remember hearing/thinking that if you had a Chrysler boat and motor, well you really had something! One man's opinion.
Dan

 

[carbineone]

Re: Chrysler 55HP

Dan,tried a search for a photo on the net and did not find what I am needing.Either I am not very good at searching or they are a elusive motor. Looked on Ebay too to try to find a 85 year but had no luck there.Just was hoping someone runs one and may have a pic.

What part of Nebraska did you grow up in?I am in Columbus. I am a Evinrude-Johnson fan first off and have never had any experience with Chrysler at all.

 

[huskerdaninva]

Re: Chrysler 55HP

I grew up in Omaha until I left for the Army in the mid 80's. My little project is my first boat and outboard. (I've always wanted a boat since I was little and I stumbled onto an offer I couldn't turn down last year.) Once I got the motor running last fall after her 20 year nap in a barn in Ohio, and with lots of help from these fine folks, I knew I had a keeper and something my son would enjoy years from now. I have been amazed at the simple design of these motors, how easy they are to work on, adjust, etc. and just how much fun they are! (as long as you have a good repair manual and this website!)
FYI, seems to me that any outboard in decent running shape with controls and cables is worth more than what you are looking at spending. Good luck!
Dan