Chrysler 55 model 554BA runs rough and dies after a while

Woka

Cadet
Joined
Jul 26, 2013
Messages
10
Hello,
Newbie on here but first of all a great resource!
I have browsed over many posts the last few hours and have a few questions.
The outboard I have is a 1970 55HP electric (says so on the engine cover...) model number 554BA serial no. 3089

The engine starts and runs great, however it does misfire sometimes fairly consistently. It will stutter at mid to low rpm.
Also after running for 10-15 min it will die and then barely work for say 30 sec at a time.

I have in my reading decided to do the following:

1. Carb clean -do I need new needles and gaskets or can I just give it a clean as detailed on other posts.
2. Points, clean /replace
3. Spark plugs -have been recently replaced so Clean and gap.

So my questions are:

1. What the hell ignition system /electrical system do I have and how do I check it is proving a charge to the battery. How does it work?
2. What components should be cleaned replaced to get her purring
3. What else could be wrong with my newly acquired ancient artefact. ( at least they seem simple and easy to work on yourself compared to new outboards!)
4. How do I measure and set ad rpm?
5. From reading other posts is it likely that my condensers need replacing as they are overheating and shorting out?


From the forum I can already see that I can get parts from franzmarine . And have a copy of the service manual.
At times the engine runs perfectly smoothly, as such I am hoping it is simply a matter of cleaning and replacing some small components.

Thank you for your time and assistance.

Warwick
 

wickware

Lieutenant
Joined
Jun 20, 2009
Messages
1,286
Re: Chrysler 55 model 554BA runs rough and dies after a while

Pull the flywheel and check the conditions of the point if you have not. That has been my main problem with my 1970 35 hp Chrysler related to your 55 hp possibly.

Post some pics to compare ignitions, carbs and lower units. I?ll attach my units that have been solid since my 1984 purchase.

We?ll compare names later!!


So my questions are: Ck the end of each question for comments....

1. What the hell ignition system /electrical system do I have and how do I check it is proving a charge to the battery. How does it work? With boat running and charging you should see over 12V going to the Batt

2. What components should be cleaned replaced to get her purring Check points, condensers, coils by seeing good clean hot blue sparks. Ck clean polished points, for continuity with an ohmmeter, test light or etc.

3. What else could be wrong with my newly acquired ancient artefact. ( at least they seem simple and easy to work on yourself compared to new outboards!) Checking the compression should be 1st and good to know you can reach the best performance.

4. How do I measure and set ad rpm? On the tower linked to the carb is a screw that will touch the block (unlock, adjust, lock).

5. From reading other posts is it likely that my condensers need replacing as they are overheating and shorting out? I would think good fire will prove then good.

I hope someone will verify my info as god or bad. Thanks!
 

Attachments

  • 2010 Cleaning Since 1985, as needed Greasing (1).JPG
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  • 1970, 35 HP Chrysler's Magneto System 2.JPG
    1970, 35 HP Chrysler's Magneto System 2.JPG
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  • Copy of 2010 Cleaning Since 1985, as needed Greasing (5).JPG
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Woka

Cadet
Joined
Jul 26, 2013
Messages
10
Re: Chrysler 55 model 554BA runs rough and dies after a while

Thanks wickware,

I have cleaned the points and carb and she is now running a treat. Now just have to stop water getting in the lower unit and she will be like new.

As for the electrics, turns out no stator so therefore no charging ability, might get a solar panel
To keep battery topped up from starts and nav lights.

Cheers!
 
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