85/88 force 50 hp no spark

[quickj49]

New member and new to working on outboards so any help would be appreciated. I have what I believe is an 85 force 50 hp with an 88 head on it. I got it with a boat that I am going to restore and would like to use the motor for now. I couldn't get it to start with fresh gas or starting fluid. Problem is I don't have spark to either plug. I tested spark with a tester that replaces the plugs to find no spark on either wire from the coils. I plan on ordering a repair manual but was looking for a starting point in the meantime. I've read a ton of threads and seen a wealth of information but alot of it is like reading a foreign language. There is a crack on one coil which I will try to seal up. Also a red wire that goes up under the flywheel that is frayed but doesn't appear to be grounding out which I'd like to replace. Can I pull the flywheel without potentially putting it out of time or should that be a concern? Anything to inspect while it's off? Put 2 new BR6HS plugs in it until I get the B6HS plugs. I am posting a few pictures to show what I'm working with. I know it's a long post but wanted to paint a clear picture of what my limited experience has noticed. Thanks in advance for any help I might get.

 

[Nordin]

Your engine has a regular battery ignition system with points, condensers and ignition coils.
The battery is feeding the ignition system with power. This is old school technique.
No problem to pull the flywheel, the timing would not change.
Check the flywheel key, clean the points and set the gap to 015 in.
Lap the flywheel and the crank taper and put the wheel back.
Important that you torque the flywheel nut to proper value, if not you maybe share the key.

You can try to reseal the coil but as it is a crack in it it might be fried.
If you have a VOM you can measure the resistance in the prime and secondary winding.
Prime side should be 0,5-1,5 Ohm (thin wires at + and - terminal)
Secondary side 5-8 Kohm.(- terminal and HT wire)
Compare both coils and check if there are big difference in the values.

 

[jerryjerry05]

If you buy a manual?? get the OEM or factory book.
There are aftermarket books that have some info but
lack the specifics the factory book has. ebay is a good
bet.

 

[quickj49]

Thanks for the responses guys. I have an 84-86 OEM manual on the way. Hopefully it is relevant to the 88 head? I also ordered a Clymer manual as well as a wiring diagram manual they offer. I figured having them would help ask more pointed questions and not waste everyone's time with terminology and procedure questions. Thanks Nordin for the specifics and order. Once the manuals arrive I will be jumping in on what you suggested. Will keep you guys posted.