1989 4.3l LX Mercruiser

[jwd45]

I need some pointers on trouble shooting ignition issues. Boat cranked fine at boat ramp but didn't make it far. Just cut off. I dont seem to be getting fire. I have replaced the coil but distributor looks fine. Does anyone know any way to test the sensor inside the distributor cap????

 

[chargerboy]

Re: 1989 4.3l LX Mercruiser

Have you tried cleaning and re-setting the points inside the distributor? Buy a small points file, clean them up real good, use a feeler guage to gap them to manufacturers specs, and then spray electrical contact cleaner on them. Also give the rotor a light sand and the contact points in the distributor cap. Clean your spark plugs with a wire brush, and try again.

If it fires, you know what's bad, and replace everything with new. Let me know if this helps.

 

[havasuboatman]

Re: 1989 4.3l LX Mercruiser

Might want to check the emergancy kill switch lanyard too. Pull that, and no spark. If the switch is faulty, no spark
Also, correct use of terminology makes helping you out easier.
"Cranking fine" doesn't mean the motor runs. It just means the starter is working.
Motor fired fine, engine started fine, "engine ran fine, but didn't make it far."

 

[180shabah]

Re: 1989 4.3l LX Mercruiser

Have you tried cleaning and re-setting the points inside the distributor?

What points?

 

[chargerboy]

Re: 1989 4.3l LX Mercruiser

an 89 4.3 litre is electric controlled?

 

[180shabah]

Re: 1989 4.3l LX Mercruiser

4.3's are TBIV or TBV - both electronic