Chris-Craft History

Chris-Craft outboards were made in Grand Rapids Michigan from 1949 through 1953. Approximately 23,000 of the 5.5 horsepower Challenger were made. Starting in late 1950 the Commander 10 horsepower was made with around 9,000 produced by 1953. The early Commanders had many changes and both motors started their numbering at 1,000. The records for the year-to-serial number were not kept, if you want to know more please let me know and I will try to help.

There were two types of "racers" that were made for Alan Smith and his sister Sylvia. These were the Algonac version and had different towers and lower units. Alan's motor used alcohol and caster oil to make short work of anyone with their "fast" Mercurys.

Another version, the "Grand Rapids" version, were made in Grand Rapids and under 40 were produced. The tower was light green in color and the unit had tiny gears that did not hold up too well.

I am fortunate to have both the Grand Rapids unit and the motor that Alan ran. Check out the Algonac Racer page for more information.

Thank you,
Lee

Copyright © 2000-10 Lee Holland(leeholland09@comcast.net)

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