Followup to F26 With Mercruiser running issue
Posted: Wed Aug 17, 2011 6:09 pm
Found the problem 
First, I wanted to thank all those that responded, I really appreciate it.
After much troubleshooting, and ruling out, I found that the Pertronix electronic ignition that the previous owner had installed was at fault. I checked the timing at idle, and faound that it was about 16 degrees BTC instead of 8. Changed the timing to 8, and took the boat for a run. It was worse than ever, just would not make power, so I started advancing the timing a little at a time until the boat ran reasonably well. After about 15 minutes, it started running like garbage again. I checked the timing, and it was back to 16 degrees BTDC at idle.
Found a local marina with a used Mallory, points equipted distributer. Sold it to me for $50.00. Installed the breaker plate, points and condensor. Gapped the points, set the dwell, and went for a ride. Boat runs like it should.
There's alot to be said for old school ignition systems!!
Thanks again.
First, I wanted to thank all those that responded, I really appreciate it.After much troubleshooting, and ruling out, I found that the Pertronix electronic ignition that the previous owner had installed was at fault. I checked the timing at idle, and faound that it was about 16 degrees BTC instead of 8. Changed the timing to 8, and took the boat for a run. It was worse than ever, just would not make power, so I started advancing the timing a little at a time until the boat ran reasonably well. After about 15 minutes, it started running like garbage again. I checked the timing, and it was back to 16 degrees BTDC at idle.
Found a local marina with a used Mallory, points equipted distributer. Sold it to me for $50.00. Installed the breaker plate, points and condensor. Gapped the points, set the dwell, and went for a ride. Boat runs like it should.
There's alot to be said for old school ignition systems!!
Thanks again.