What size and year Chrysler Outboad to capture?

[doogymon]

Hi Folks. Getting a 1968 Chrysler Commando 151 center console boat (have to pop lid off and fix transom, stringers and floor of course). I like twin cylinders. Also like simplicity and I'm not scared of maintenance.


Wondering if a 55 hp would push the boat OK? Or should I go for a 70/75 hp 3 cylinder? Not a speed demon. 2 in the boat at most.

Seller has a 70 hp for parts with the boat but he thinks it maybe seized. He did not operate the boat. The 70 is physically big. I'd rather go with a 45-55 hp. Either way, if motor is 70's vintage, any years to stay away from? I'd like to explore the
igntion mods so wondering if Magnapower1 or Magnapower 2 or Magneto is the way to go to make a more bulletproof rig?

Thanks

 

[RRitt]

Re: What size and year Chrysler Outboad to capture?

i'm not sure if there is any connection with reliability - it could just be how many were sold - but the engine I see the most of that is still in very good condition with owners having the fewest complaints is 85HP.

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: What size and year Chrysler Outboad to capture?

A 55hp would push the boat ok as long as you have the right prop???
Need to install the motor and a tach and go for a ride.
The WOT rpm's will tell if the prop is right.

The 70 is a bit more power.A little faster.
A bit more gas consumtion.
Probably the same reliability.

Anything before 1969 is too old.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: What size and year Chrysler Outboad to capture?



Here is a 15 footer that started out with a 1969 55 HP Chrysler. It was later upgraded to a 75, then a 90, and finally a 105. You can see that she still handles the extra weight well. Last photo is it coming out of the hole and not on full plane yet.

Stay away from Magna-Power II unless you have the time and means to find parts and convert back. This ignition had a record of failing. You MAY get a good one, but why take a chance.

Motorola magna-Power is relatively reliable but the CD boxes do occasionally fail. By far, if you heart is set on a 2 cylinder 55, get one with magneto ignition. It has been around for years and is relatively trouble free. Just about the only thing you need to do is clean points. However, this ignition comes without an alternator so you must physically recharge the battery each time you use the boat.

55s did come with battery ignition, points, and alternator. This would be the best set-up.

The 70 is the same block and cubic inches as the 75, 85, and 90. Since the transom is already set for this engine, replacing it with a like engine would make most sense---unless weight is an overriding issue. The 55 weighs 156 and the 70-90 weight 250 without power tilt. BUT, while the 55 will plane the boat, it will be working hard. The 70 will cruise at a lower throttle setting and very likely get the same MPH as the 55 at cruising speeds. Full throttle and you will go faster and, of course, use more fuel.

Remember: it is ALWAYS better to have extra power and not use it than to need extra power and not have it.

 

[doogymon]

Re: What size and year Chrysler Outboad to capture?

Thank you very much Frank, Jerry and RRit. I am slowly becoming a Chrysler guy. I like their sailboats as well. NOw, if I could only find
that Mermaid Frank! Great pics. Thanks again from Doogymon.