1974 Merc 650 Timing Question, with pic

[iboatWayne]

I'm getting closer to getting this merc running again. She's trying to start but it's just not happening. So because I bought an extra used distributor, I decided what the heck, might as well try it. It's installed now and not really any improvement but I have a question. What are the chances the timing could be off by a few deg? The timing marker on this merc is missing/broken and I can't tell what to use as a timing marker. The manual isn't much help because the pictures are b&w and horrible and they assume you aren't missing any parts. Does this look correct for aligning the distributor to the flywheel? See picture below. Just in case I didn't put the thing back in exactly the way I removed it.
Where should TDC be in relationship to one of the white marks and since I don't have a pointer, I have to use a location on the motor for reference or make my own pointer.

 

[dogyerf21]

Re: 1974 Merc 650 Timing Question, with pic

I too am having this problem did you figure out how to properly align the pulley and the flywheel Need info very frustrated manual blows for 650

 

[Gomer50]

Re: 1974 Merc 650 Timing Question, with pic

Does your top cowl support have a degree guage markings on it.TDC all the way up to 50 BTDC??If so take the number 1 spark plug out and rotate your flywheel so that number 1 piston is at TDC.Look and see if the three little punch marks line up with the TDC mark on the upper cowl if not take the flywheel off at the 8 bolts and make this happen.After you have done this take the top platte off of the distributor pully pull the belt off and rotate the flywheel counter clockwise from TDC until the 3 little punch marks,the center of the distributor shaft,the arrow on the distributor pully pointing towards the crankshaft and the center of the crankshaft line up.Put the belt back on and put the distributor pully platte back on.Now you should be able go on about your link and synch process.Set max spark advance to 21 degree's BTDC with todays gasoline.This worked for me on my 72 Merc 800.And I agree the manual that I have doesnt give me as much info that sometimes needs to.Good Luck I hope this helps.