Reply To: Retro fitting an electric start on a 1956 mark 55

[jrm80]

Yes, it can be done. I have what i think is a 1958 mark 55 and had the same dilemma you do. I’m old and have no interest in cranking this or any outboard motor. It probably isn’t worth it unless you are committed to doing so, but that’s true for most any old outboard. But we do it anyhow.

What you’ll need is a flywheel, (as Dave points out, determine if you have the large or small taper) a stator, rectifier and mounting bracket, choke solenoid, choke linkage, a magneto start switch ( a battery style switch will not work), a starter, starter solenoid, dash mount choke switch, a lower cowl pan, and internal and external wiring. I’m probably forgetting a few things, but these parts will get you most of the way. With regard to the lower cowl, you need it for the internal wiring hole that all the wiring goes through. There were two size holes, the early one had a small hole which used a conduit style fitting and the later cowl which used the plug on the side of the engine. I would avoid the small hole one, as the external fitting that it takes is expensive and rare as is the internal wiring fitting. Next, you’ll have to rewire the whole engine as the insulation will be falling off of the wiring. I used silicone wire for that as it is extremely flexible and a joy to work with. It’s a little pricey, but worth it. If you decide to go ahead with this project, there’s a better option for the rectifier and it’s cheaper. Let me know if you need that info.

Good luck

Jim McCarthy